Showing papers in "Journal of Nanoparticle Research in 2013"

Global life cycle releases of engineered nanomaterials

Abstract: Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are now becoming a significant fraction of the material flows in the global economy. We are already reaping the benefits of improved energy efficiency, material use reduction, and better performance in many existing and new applications that have been enabled by these technological advances. As ENMs pervade the global economy, however, it becomes important to understand their environmental implications. As a first step, we combined ENM market information and material flow modeling to produce the first global assessment of the likely ENM emissions to the environment and landfills. The top ten most produced ENMs by mass were analyzed in a dozen major applications. Emissions during the manufacturing, use, and disposal stages were estimated, including intermediate steps through wastewater treatment plants and waste incineration plants. In 2010, silica, titania, alumina, and iron and zinc oxides dominate the ENM market in terms of mass flow through the global economy, used mostly in coatings/paints/pigments, electronics and optics, cosmetics, energy and environmental applications, and as catalysts. We estimate that 63–91 % of over 260,000–309,000 metric tons of global ENM production in 2010 ended up in landfills, with the balance released into soils (8–28 %), water bodies (0.4–7 %), and atmosphere (0.1–1.5 %). While there are considerable uncertainties in the estimates, the framework for estimating emissions can be easily improved as better data become available. The material flow estimates can be used to quantify emissions at the local level, as inputs for fate and transport models to estimate concentrations in different environmental compartments.

Enhanced rifampicin delivery to alveolar macrophages by solid lipid nanoparticles

Abstract: The present study aimed at developing a drug delivery system targeting the densest site of tuberculosis infection, the alveolar macrophages (AMs). Rifampicin (RFP)-loaded solid lipid nanopar- ticles (RFP-SLNs) with an average size of 829.6 ± 16.1 nm were prepared by a modified lipid film hydration method. The cytotoxicity of RFP-SLNs to AMs and alveolar epithelial type II cells (AECs) was examined using MTT assays. The viability of AMs and AECs was above 80 % after treatment with RFP-SLNs, which showed low toxicity to both AMs and AECs. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy was employed to observe the interaction between RFP- SLNs and both AMs and AECs. After incubating the cells with RFP-SLNs for 2 h, the fluorescent intensity in AMs was more and remained longer (from 0.5 to 12 h) when compared with that in AECs (from 0.5 to 8 h). In vitro uptake characteristics of RFP-SLNs in AMs and AECs were also investigated by detection of intracellular RFP by High performance liquid chro- matography. Results showed that RFP-SLNs delivered markedly higher RFP into AMs (691.7 ng/mg in cultured AMs, 662.6 ng/mg in primary AMs) than that into AECs (319.2 ng/mg in cultured AECs, 287.2 ng/mg in primary AECs). Subsequently, in vivo delivery efficiency and the selectivity of RFP-SLNs were further verified in Sprague-Dawley rats. Under pulmonary administration of RFP-SLNs, the amount of RFP in AMs was significantly higher than that in AECs at each time point. Our results demonstrated that solid lipid nanoparticles are a promising strategy for the delivery of rifampicin to alveolar macrophages selectively.

Agglomeration and sedimentation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles ( n -TiO 2 ) in synthetic and real waters

Abstract: The recent detection of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (n-TiO2) in wastewaters raised concerns about its fate in the aquatic environment, which is related to its mobility through water bodies. Laboratory experiments of n-TiO2 (particle size distribution: 10–65 nm) dispersed into both synthetic and real aqueous solutions under environmentally realistic concentrations (0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/l) were conducted over a time of 50 h to mimic duration of ecotoxicological tests. Agglomeration and sedimentation behaviour were measured under controlled conditions of salinity (0–35 ‰), ionic composition and strength, pH and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Physico-chemical parameters and particle agglomeration in the dispersions were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer, Emmett and Teller method and dynamic light scattering. A fluorescence spectrophotometer operating in the nephelometric mode was employed to obtain the sedimentation rates of n-TiO2. The overall results showed that agglomeration and sedimentation of n-TiO2 were affected mainly by the initial concentration. Sedimentation data fitted satisfactorily (R 2 in the range of 0.74–0.98; average R 2: 0.90) with a first-order kinetic equation.The settling rate constant, k, increased by approx. one order of magnitude by moving from the lowest to the highest concentration, resulting very similar especially for all dispersions at 1(k = 8 × 10−6 s−1) and 10 mg/l (k = 2 × 10−5 s−1) n-TiO2, regardless the ionic strength and composition of dispersions. The implication of these results on toxicological testing is discussed.

Preparation and electrochemical properties of LiFePO4/C nanoparticles using different organic carbon sources

Abstract: Uniform LiFePO4/C particles were prepared by a fast, facile, and environmentally friendly microwave-assisted low-heating solid-state reaction using different organic carbon sources. The particles are very uniform and are 50–80 nm in size. The effects of the carbon sources on the microstructure and electrochemical properties of LiFePO4/C nanoparticles were investigated by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The results showed that the LiFePO4/C nanoparticles prepared from citric acid as carbon source, which has good crystallinity and a narrow particle size distribution, provided an initial discharge capacity of 112 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C with excellent capacity retention. These advantages, coupled with the simple and effective preparation method, render LiFePO4/C nanoparticles attractive for practical and large-scale applications.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles as a biomolecule delivery vehicle in plants

Abstract: We report the uptake by wheat, lupin and Arabidopsis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles functionalised with amine cross-linked fluorescein isothiocyanate (MSN-APTES-FITC). The preparation of these particles at room temperature enabled the synthesis of 20 nm particles that contained a network of interconnected pores around 2 nm in diameter. The uptake and distribution of these nanoparticles were examined during seed germination, in roots of plants grown in a hydroponic system and in whole leaves and roots of plants via vacuum infiltration. The nanoparticles did not affect seed germination in lupin and there was no phytotoxicity. Following germination of wheat and lupin grown in a nutrient solution containing nanoparticles, they were found within cells and cell walls of the emerging root and in the vascular transport elements, the xylem, and in other associated cells. In leaves and roots of Arabidopsis the nanoparticles were found, following vacuum infiltration of whole seedlings, to be taken up by the entire leaf and they were principally found in the intercellular spaces of the mesophyll but also throughout much of the root system. We propose that MSNs could be used as a novel delivery system for small molecules in plants.

Magnetic, structural, and electronic properties of iron sulfide Fe 3 S 4 nanoparticles synthesized by the polyol mediated process

Abstract: Iron sulfide nanoparticles Fe3S4 with the spinel-type crystal structure were synthesized by the polyol mediated process. The particle size depends on preparation conditions and varies from 9 to 20 nm. Mossbauer data have revealed that the dominating fraction of iron ions in the 9-nm sample is in the high-spin ferric state. This implies an occurrence of the cation vacancies in nonstoichiometric greigite. The stoichiometric phase of greigite Fe3S4 dominates in the 18-nm-size nanoparticles. Magnetic measurements have shown a ferrimagnetic behavior of all samples at temperatures between 78 and 300 K. The estimated value of magnetic moment of the stoichiometric greigite nanoparticles is about 3.5 μB per Fe3S4 unit. The Mossbauer spectra indicate a superparamagnetic behavior of small particles, and some fraction of superparamagnetic phase is observed in all samples synthesized which may be caused by the particle size distribution. The blocking temperatures of T B ≈ 230 and 250 K are estimated for the 9 and 14 nm particles, respectively. The Mossbauer parameters indicate a great degree of covalency in the Fe–S bonds and support the fast electron Fe3+ ⇆ Fe2+ exchange in the B-sites of greigite. An absence of the Verwey transition at temperatures between 90 and 295 K is established supporting a semimetal type of conductivity. The temperature and magnetic field dependences of the magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) of optical spectra were measured in Fe3S4 for the first time. The spectra differ substantially from that of the isostructural oxide Fe3O4. It is supposed that the MCD spectra of greigite nanoparticles result from the collective electron excitations in a wide band with superimposed peaks of the d–d transitions in Fe ions.

Advances of Ag, Cu, and Ag–Cu alloy nanoparticles synthesized via chemical reduction route

Abstract: Silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles have shown great potential in variety applications due to their excellent electrical and thermal properties resulting high demand in the market. Decreasing in size to nanometer scale has shown distinct improvement in these inherent properties due to larger surface-to-volume ratio. Ag and Cu nanoparticles are also shown higher surface reactivity, and therefore being used to improve interfacial and catalytic process. Their melting points have also dramatically decreased compared with bulk and thus can be processed at relatively low temperature. Besides, regularly alloying Ag into Cu to create Ag–Cu alloy nanoparticles could be used to improve fast oxidizing property of Cu nanoparticles. There are varieties methods have been reported on the synthesis of Ag, Cu, and Ag–Cu alloy nanoparticles. This review aims to cover chemical reduction means for synthesis of those nanoparticles. Advances of this technique utilizing different reagents namely metal salt precursors, reducing agents, and stabilizers, as well as their effects on respective nanoparticles have been systematically reviewed. Other parameters such as pH and temperature that have been considered as an important factor influencing the quality of those nanoparticles have also been reviewed thoroughly.

Nanoparticle synthesis and delivery by an aerosol route for watermelon plant foliar uptake

Abstract: An aerosol process was developed for synthesis and delivery of nanoparticles for living watermelon plant foliar uptake. This is an efficient technique capable of generating nanoparticles with controllable particle sizes and number concentrations. Aerosolized nanoparticles were easily applied to leaf surfaces and enter the stomata via gas uptake, avoiding direct interaction with soil systems, eliminating potential ecological risks. The uptake and transport of nanoparticles inside the watermelon plants were investigated systematically by various techniques, such as elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and plant anatomy by transmission electron microscopy. The results revealed that certain fractions of nanoparticles (dp < 100 nm) generated by the aerosol process could enter the leaf following the stomatal pathway, then pass through the stem, and reach the root of the watermelon plants. The particle size and number concentration played an important role in nanoparticle translocation inside the plants. In addition, the nanoparticle application method, working environment, and leaf structure are also important factors to be considered for successful plant foliar uptake.

Comparison of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and the correlated inactivation of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria

Abstract: Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are important photocatalysts and as such have been extensively studied for the removal of organic compounds from contaminated air and water and for microbial disinfection. Despite much research on the effect of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles on different bacterial species, uncertainties remain about which bacteria are more sensitive to these compounds. Very few studies have directly compared the toxicity of ZnO to TiO2 under both light and dark conditions. In addition, authors investigating the photocatalytic inactivation of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles on bacteria have failed to investigate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation of the nanoparticles, making it difficult to correlate killing action with the generation of ROS. In this study, three types of metal nanoparticle (ZnO < 50 nm, ZnO < 100 nm and TiO2) have been characterised and ROS production assessed through the degradation of methylene blue (MB). The photocatalytic killing potential of three nanoparticle concentrations (0.01, 0.1 and 1 g/L) was then assessed on four representative bacteria: two gram-positive (S. aureus and B. subtilis) and two gram-negative (E. coli and P. aeruginosa). Results showed that out of the three nanoparticles tested, the TiO2 nanoparticles generated more ROS than the ZnO nanoparticles, corresponding to a greater photocatalytic inactivation of three of the four species of bacteria examined. The MB decomposition results correlated well with the bacterial inactivation results with higher TiO2 nanoparticle concentrations leading to greater ROS production and increased loss of cell viability. Although producing less ROS than the TiO2 nanoparticles under ultraviolet light, the ZnO nanoparticles were toxic to two of the bacterial species even under dark conditions. In this study, no correlation between cell wall type and bacterial inactivation was observed for any of the nanoparticles tested although both gram-positive bacteria were sensitive to ROS production. P. aeruginosa cells were resistant to all types of treatment and highlight a potential limitation to the application of these nanoparticles for water treatment.

Interlaboratory comparison of size measurements on nanoparticles using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA)

Abstract: One of the key challenges in the field of nanoparticle (NP) analysis is in producing reliable and reproducible characterisation data for nanomaterials. This study looks at the reproducibility using a relatively new, but rapidly adopted, technique, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) on a range of particle sizes and materials in several different media. It describes the protocol development and presents both the data and analysis of results obtained from 12 laboratories, mostly based in Europe, who are primarily QualityNano members. QualityNano is an EU FP7 funded Research Infrastructure that integrates 28 European analytical and experimental facilities in nanotechnology, medicine and natural sciences with the goal of developing and implementing best practice and quality in all aspects of nanosafety assessment. This study looks at both the development of the protocol and how this leads to highly reproducible results amongst participants. In this study, the parameter being measured is the modal particle size.

Blocked-micropores, surface functionalized, bio-compatible and silica-coated iron oxide nanocomposites as advanced MRI contrast agent

Abstract: Biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles have been found promising in several biomedical applications for tagging, imaging, sensing and separation in recent years. In this article, a systematic study of the design and development of surface-modification schemes for silica-coated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP) via a one-pot, in situ method at room temperature is presented. Silica-coated IONP were prepared in a water-in-oil microemulsion, and subsequently the surface was modified via addition of organosilane reagents to the microemulsion system. The structure and the morphology of the as synthesized nanoparticles have been investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and measurement of N2 adsorption–desorption. Electron diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images of the nanoparticles showed the highly crystalline nature of the IONP structures. Nitrogen adsorption indicates microporous and blocked-microporous structures for the silica-coated and amine functionalized silica-coated IONP, respectively which could prove less cytotoxicity of the functionalized final product. Besides, the colloidal stability of the final product and the presence of the modified functional groups on top of surface layer have been proven by zeta-potential measurements. Owing to the benefit from the inner IONP core and the hydrophilic silica shell, the as-synthesized nanocomposites were exploited as an MRI contrast enhancement agent. Relaxometric results prove that the surface functionalized IONP have also signal enhancement properties. These surface functionalized nanocomposites are not only potential candidates for highly efficient contrast agents for MRI, but could also be used as ultrasensitive biological-magnetic labels, because they are in nanoscale size, having magnetic properties, blocked-microporous and are well dispersible in biological environment.

Silver nanoparticles in soil–plant systems

Abstract: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have broad spectrum antimicrobial/biocidal properties against all classes of microorganisms and possess numerous distinctive physico-chemical properties compared to bulk Ag. Hence, AgNPs are among the most widely used engineered NPs in a wide range of consumer products and are expected to enter natural ecosystems including soil via diverse pathways. However, despite: (i) soil has been considered as a critical pathway for NPs environmental fate, (ii) plants (essential base component of all ecosystems) have been strongly recommended to be included for the development of a comprehensive toxicity profile for rapidly mounting NPs in varied environmental compartments, and (iii) the occurrence of an intricate relationship between “soil–plant systems” where any change in soil chemical/biological properties is bound to have impact on plant system, the knowledge about AgNPs in soils and investigations on AgNPs–plants interaction is still rare and in its rudimentary stage. To this end, the current paper: (a) overviews sources, status, fate, and chemistry of AgNPs in soils, AgNPs-impact on soil biota, (b) critically discusses terrestrial plant responses to AgNPs exposure, and (c) illustrates the knowledge-gaps in the current perspective. Based on the available literature critically appraised herein, a multidisciplinary integrated approach is strongly recommended for future research in the current direction aimed at unveiling the rapidly mounting AgNPs-fate, transformation, accumulation, and toxicity potential in “soil–plant systems,” and their cumulative impact on environmental and human health.

Porous FeVO4 nanorods: synthesis, characterization, and gas-sensing properties toward volatile organic compounds

Abstract: This study reports a facile hydrothermal approach for the synthesis of shape-controlled FeVO4·11H2O nanorods and the subsequent conversion into FeVO4 nanorods upon calcination at 500 °C for 2 h The lengths of the synthesized FeVO4 nanorods vary from 07–35 μm, with the widths ranging from 70–270 nm The proposed synthesis strategy does not involve the use of surfactants and requires only a very short reaction time, which is highly beneficial for the scale-up preparation The anions of the Fe precursor are found to directly influence the shape and composition of the resultant hydrated FeVO4 products, due to the differences in their ionic strength and their abilities to intercalate into the layered structure of FeVO4·11H2O The Cl− ions are particularly useful in limiting the growth of the nanorods in the lateral direction without being strongly intercalated into the layered structure The porous FeVO4 nanorods exhibit higher selectivity and sensitivity toward n-butanol compared to FeVO4 nanoparticles, due to the high surface area and porosity The findings demonstrate for the first time the potential of nanosized FeVO4 as a sensor material for the detection of volatile gases

TiO 2 nanoparticles on nitrogen-doped graphene as anode material for lithium ion batteries

Abstract: Anatase TiO2 nanoparticles in situ grown on nitrogen-doped, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have been successfully synthesized as an anode material for the lithium ion battery. The nanosized TiO2 particles were homogeneously distributed on the reduced graphene oxide to inhibit the restacking of the neighbouring graphene sheets. The obtained TiO2/N-rGO composite exhibits improved cycling performance and rate capability, indicating the important role of reduced graphene oxide, which not only facilitates the formation of uniformly distributed TiO2 nanocrystals, but also increases the electrical conductivity of the composite material. The introduction of nitrogen on the reduced graphene oxide has been proved to increase the conductivity of the reduced graphene oxide and leads to more defects. A disordered structure is thus formed to accommodate more lithium ions, thereby further improving the electrochemical performance.

Effect of surface charge on the colloidal stability and in vitro uptake of carboxymethyl dextran-coated iron oxide nanoparticles

Abstract: Nanoparticle physicochemical properties such as surface charge are considered to play an important role in cellular uptake and particle-cell interactions. In order to systematically evaluate the role of surface charge on the uptake of iron oxide nanoparticles, we prepared carboxymethyl-substituted dextrans with different degrees of substitution, ranging from 38 to 5 groups per chain, and reacted them using carbodiimide chemistry with amine-silane-coated iron oxide nanoparticles with narrow size distributions in the range of 33-45 nm. Surface charge of carboxymethyl-substituted dextran-coated nano-particles ranged from -50 to 5 mV as determined by zeta potential measurements, and was dependent on the number of carboxymethyl groups incorporated in the dextran chains. Nanoparticles were incubated with CaCo-2 human colon cancer cells. Nanoparticle-cell interactions were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and uptake was quantified by elemental analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Mechanisms of internalization were inferred using pharmacological inhibitors for fluid-phase, clathrin-mediated, and caveola-mediated endocytosis. Results showed increased uptake for nanoparticles with greater negative charge. Internalization patterns suggest that uptake of the most negatively charged particles occurs via non-specific interactions.

Amine-derived synthetic approach to color-tunable InP/ZnS quantum dots with high fluorescent qualities

Abstract: High-quality, Cd-free InP quantum dots (QDs) have been conventionally synthesized by exclusively selecting tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine (P(TMS)3) as a phosphorus (P) precursor, which is problematic from the standpoint of green and economic chemistry. Thus, other synthetic chemistries adopting alternative P sources to P(TMS)3 have been introduced, however, they could not guarantee the production of satisfactorily fluorescence-efficient, color-pure InP QDs. In this study, the unprecedented controlled synthesis of a series of band-gap-tuned InP QDs is demonstrated through a hot-injection of a far safer and cheaper tris(dimethylamino)phosphine in the presence of a key coordinating solvent of oleylamine that enables successful QD nucleation/growth. Effects of the co-existence of Zn additive, the core growth temperature, and the amount of P source injected on the growth behaviors of InP QD are investigated. After ZnS overcoating by a successive injection of 1-dodecanethiol only, high-fluorescence-quality, green-to-red color emission-tunable core/shell QDs of InP/ZnS are obtained. The fluorescent characteristics of different color-emitting QDs desirably exhibit little fluctuations in quantum yield and emission bandwidth, specifically ranging 51–53 % and 60–64 nm, respectively. Lastly, the utility of the introduction of a secondary shelling process in rendering the QDs are more bright, photostable is also proved.

Enhanced photocatalytic activity of bismuth-doped TiO 2 nanotubes under direct sunlight irradiation for degradation of Rhodamine B dye

Abstract: Bismuth-doped TiO2 nanotubes (Bi-TNT) were successfully synthesized by combination of sol–gel and hydrothermal methods. The synthesized photocatalyst was efficiently used for degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye under direct sunlight irradiation. Subsequent characterization of synthesized photocatalysts was carried out using PXRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, FT-IR, Raman, N2 adsorption, TPD-NH3, UV–Vis DRS, XRF and ICP techniques. The surface area of the TiO2 nanoparticles increased after tubular structure formation (TiO2 nanoparticles—114.21 m2/g, TiO2 nanotube—191.93 m2/g). The degradation studies revealed that initial rate of photocatalytic degradation of RhB dye using Bi-TNT was 5.56, 4.16, 1.30 and 2.38 times higher as compared to TNP, Bi-TNP, TNT and Degussa P-25 TiO2 (P-25), respectively, under direct sunlight irradiation. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of Bi-TNT may be due to the increase in the surface area and Bi doping, which leads to effective separation of photogenerated carriers. The degradation was confirmed by chemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon and total inorganic carbon analysis of the degraded dye solutions. The probable degradation mechanism of RhB dye has also been proposed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of degraded samples.

Prussian blue-coated magnetic nanoparticles for removal of cesium from contaminated environment

Abstract: A large amount of radioactive cesium (Cs) has been released into natural environment following the nuclear accident in Fukushima, Japan in 2011. Much effort has been directed at capturing Cs and remediation of the contaminated environment. However, conventional sorbents, such as Prussian blue and zeolites cannot be easily recovered once spread into an open environment. Here, we develop new nano-sorbent based on the magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) functionalized with Prussian blue (PB) that possess both high Cs adsorption capacity (96 mg Cs/g sorbent) and large distribution coefficient (3.2 × 104 mL/g at 0.5 ppm Cs concentration). The developed sorbents possess good value of saturation magnetization (20 emu/g) allowing for rapid and ease of sorbent separation from the Cs solution after treatment using magnetic field. This Cs magnetic nano-sorbent can offer high potential for the use in large scale remediation of a Cs contaminated environment as well as the possibility of novel Cs decorporation drugs that can be magnetically assisted for accelerated excretion of radiocesium from the human body.

White light-emitting nanocomposites based on an oxadiazole–carbazole copolymer (POC) and InP/ZnS quantum dots

Abstract: In this work, we studied energetic and optical proprieties of a polyester-containing oxadiazole and carbazole units that we will indicate as POC. This polymer is characterized by high photoluminescence activity in the blue region of the visible spectrum, making it suitable for the development of efficient white-emitting organic light emission devices. Moreover, POC polymer has been combined with two red emitters InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) to obtain nanocomposites with wide emission spectra. The two types of QDs have different absorption wavelengths: 570 nm [InP/ZnS(570)] and 627 nm [InP/ZnS(627)] and were inserted in the polymer at different concentrations. The optical properties of the nanocomposites have been investigated and compared to the ones of the pure polymer. Both spectral and time resolved fluorescence measurements show an efficient energy transfer from the polymer to QDs, resulting in white-emitting nanocomposites.

Yafet–Kittel-type magnetic order in Zn-substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles with uniaxial anisotropy

Abstract: Zn-substituted cobalt ferrite (Zn x Co1−x Fe2O4 with 0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) nanoparticles coated with triethylene glycol (TREG) were prepared by the hydrothermal technique. The effect of Zn substitution on temperature-dependent magnetic properties of the TREG-coated Zn x Co1−x Fe2O4 nanoparticles has been investigated in the temperature range of 10–400 K and in magnetic fields up to 9 T. The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of TREG-coated Zn x Co1−x Fe2O4 NPs were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The average crystallite size estimated from X-ray line profile fitting was found to be in the range of 7.0–10 nm. The lattice constant determined using the Nelson–Riley extrapolation method continuously increases with the increase in Zn2+ content, obeying Vegard’s law. TEM analysis revealed that the synthesized particles were nearly monodisperse, roughly spherical shaped nanoparticles in the size range of 9.0–15 nm. FT-IR spectra confirm that TREG is successfully coated on the surface of nanoparticles (NPs). The substitution of non-magnetic Zn2+ ions for magnetic Co2+ ions substantially changes the magnetic properties of the TREG-coated Zn x Co1−x Fe2O4 NPs. The saturation magnetization and the experimental magnetic moment are observed to initially increase (up to x = 0.2), which is explained by Neel’s collinear two-sublattice model, and then continuously decrease with further increase in Zn content x. This decrease obeys the three-sublattice model suggested by Yafet–Kittel (Y–K). While the Y–K angle is zero for the CoFe2O4 NPs coated with TREG, it increases gradually with increasing Zn concentrations and extrapolates to 82.36° for ZnFe2O4 NPs coated with TREG. The increase in spin canting angles (Y–K angles) suggests the existence of triangular (or canted) spin arrangements in all the samples (except for the samples with x = 0.0) under consideration in this work. From the computation of Y–K angles for the TREG-coated Zn x Co1−x Fe2O4 NPs, it can be concluded that all the zinc-doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (for x > 0.0) have a Y–K-type magnetic order, while the pure cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (x = 0.0) have a Neel-type magnetic order. Zero field cooled (ZFC) and field cooled (FC) measurement results further verify that the samples with 0.6 ≤ x ≤ 1.0 have superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature, which shows weak interaction between magnetic particles. The blocking temperatures obtained from ZFC–FC curves decrease as a function of Zn concentration. It was found that the effective magnetic anisotropy, the coercivity, and remanence magnetization continuously decrease with increasing Zn concentration. Lower reduced remanent magnetization (M r/M s) values (<0.5) suggest that all the samples have uniaxial anisotropy. Ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) measurement shows that the FMR spectra of all the samples have broad linewidth because of the magnetic nanoparticles with randomly distributed anisotropy axes, and the decrease in the internal field conversely leads to the increase in the resonance field with respect to increasing Zn concentration.

Selective antibacterial effects of mixed ZnMgO nanoparticles

Abstract: Antibiotic resistance has impelled the research for new agents that can inhibit bacterial growth without showing cytotoxic effects on humans and other species. We describe the synthesis and physicochemical characterization of nanostructured ZnMgO whose antibacterial activity was compared to its pure nano-ZnO and nano-MgO counterparts. Among the three oxides, ZnO nanocrystals—with the length of tetrapod legs about 100 nm and the diameter about 10 nm—were found to be the most effective antibacterial agents since both Gram-positive (B. subtilis) and Gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria were completely eradicated at concentration of 1 mg/mL. MgO nanocubes (the mean cube size ~50 nm) only partially inhibited bacterial growth, whereas ZnMgO nanoparticles (sizes corresponding to pure particles) revealed high specific antibacterial activity to Gram-positive bacteria at this concentration. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed that B. subtilis cells were damaged after contact with nano-ZnMgO, causing cell contents to leak out. Our preliminary toxicological study pointed out that nano-ZnO is toxic when applied to human HeLa cells, while nano-MgO and the mixed oxide did not induce any cell damage. Overall, our results suggested that nanostructured ZnMgO, may reconcile efficient antibacterial efficiency while being a safe new therapeutic for bacterial infections.

Ciprofloxacin nano-niosomes for targeting intracellular infections: an in vitro evaluation

Abstract: In order to propose non-ionic surfactant vesicles (niosomes) for the treatment of intracellular infections, a remote loading method (active drug encapsulation) followed by sonication was used to prepare nano-niosome formulations containing ciprofloxacin (CPFX). Size analysis, size distribution and zeta potentials of niosomes were evaluated and then their antimicrobial activity, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, intracellular distribution, and antibacterial activity against intracellular Staphylococcus aureus infection of murine macrophage-like, J774, cells were investigated in comparison to free drug. Our findings reveal that size and composition of the niosome formula can influence their in vitro biological properties. Vesicles in the 300–600 nm size range were phagocytosed to a greater degree by macrophages in comparison to other size vesicles. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of CPFX-loaded niosomes were two to eightfold lower than MICs of free CPFX. In addition, niosome encapsulation of CPFX provided high intracellular antimicrobial activities while free CPFX is ineffective for eradicating intracellular forms of S. aureus. Encapsulation of CPFX in niosomes generally decreased its in vitro cytotoxicity. Our results show that niosomes are suitable drug delivery systems with good efficacy and safety properties to be proposed for drug targeting against intracellular infections.

A new function of graphene oxide emerges: inactivating phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae

Abstract: Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is one representative phytopathogenic bacterium causing bacteria infections in rice. The antibacterial activity of graphene suspended in different dispersants against Xoo was first investigated. Bacteriological test data, fluorescence microscope and transmission electron microscopy images are provided, which yield insight into the antibacterial action of the nanoscale materials. Surprisingly, the results showed graphene oxide (GO) exhibits superior bactericidal effect even at extremely low dose in water (250 μg/mL), almost killing 94.48 % cells, in comparison to common bactericide bismerthiazol with only 13.3 % mortality. The high efficiency in inactivating the bacteria on account of considerable changes in the cell membranes caused by the extremely sharp edges of graphene oxide and generation of reactive oxygen species, which may be the fatal factor for bacterial inactivation. Given the superior antibacterial effect of GO and the fact that GO can be mass-produced with low cost, we expect a new application could be developed as bactericide for controlling plant disease, which may be a matter of great importance for agricultural development.

Enhanced electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of polyaniline functionalized carbon nanotubes filled polystyrene composites

Abstract: Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/polystyrene composites were fabricated by solution processing route using non-covalently functionalized (polyaniline coated) MWCNTs. These composites exhibit an extremely low percolation threshold (0.12 vol.% MWCNT) along with micro porosity and are found to have potential applications in the areas of electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and electrostatic dissipation (ESD) with an ESD time of 0.78 s and shielding effectiveness of −23.3 dB (>99 % attenuation). The EMI shielding was found to be dominated by absorption (−18.7 dB) with a nominal contribution from reflection (−4.6 dB) that can explained in terms of multiple internal reflection phenomenon driven by high conductivity and the porous structure.

Cu 2 ZnSnSe 4 quantum dots with controllable size and quantum confinement effect

Abstract: Cu2ZnSnSe4 quantum dots (QDs) with controllable sizes have been synthesized via a hot-injection method. The diameters of the QDs range from 3.2 to 10.1 nm with the tunable band gap from 1.27 to 1.54 eV by adjusting the reaction temperatures from 180 to 240 °C. Structural and Raman scattering data confirm that Cu2ZnSnSe4 is obtained without other secondary phases. The band gaps of the QDs with diameters less than 4.6 nm show an obvious blue shift to higher energy due to quantum confinement effect. It indicates that the Cu2ZnSnSe4 QDs can be a potential candidate for quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells in the future.

Biosynthesis of Cu, ZVI, and Ag nanoparticles using Dodonaea viscosa extract for antibacterial activity against human pathogens

Abstract: Biosynthesis of copper, zero-valent iron (ZVI), and silver nanoparticles using leaf extract of Dodonaea viscosa has been investigated in this report. There are no additional surfactants/polymers used as capping or reducing agents for these syntheses. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The phase analysis was performed using selected area electron diffraction. The pH dependence of surface plasmon resonance and subsequent size variation has been determined. The synthesized nanoparticles showed spherical morphology and the average size of 29, 27, and 16 nm for Cu, ZVI, and Ag nanoparticles, respectively. Finally, biosynthesized Cu, ZVI, and Ag nanoparticles were tested against human pathogens viz. Gram-negative Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis, and showed good antimicrobial activity.

Preparation and characterization of mucus-penetrating papain/poly(acrylic acid) nanoparticles for oral drug delivery applications

Abstract: Particle diffusion through the intestinal mucosal barrier is restricted by the viscoelastic and adhesive properties of the mucus gel layer, preventing their penetration to the underlying absorptive endothelial cells. To overcome this natural barrier, we developed nanoparticles which have a remarkable ability to cleave mucoglycoprotein substructures responsible for the structural and rheological properties of mucus. After rheological screening of various mucolytic proteases, nanoparticles composed of poly(acrylic acid) and papain were prepared and characterized regarding particle size and zeta potential. Analysis of nanoparticles showed mean diameters sub-200 nm (162.8–198.5 nm) and negative zeta potentials advancing the mobility in mucus gel. Using diffusion chamber studies and the rotating diffusion tubes method, we compared the transport rates of papain modified (PAPC) and unaltered poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) particles through freshly excised intestinal porcine mucus. Results of the diffusion assays demonstrated strongly enhanced permeation behavior of PAPC particles owing to local mucus disruption by papain. Improved transport rates, reduction in mucus viscosity and the retarded release of hydrophilic macromolecular compounds make proteolytic enzyme functionalized nanoparticles of substantial interest for improved targeted drug delivery at mucosal surfaces. Although cytotoxicity tests of the nanoparticles could not be performed, safety of papain and PAA was already verified making PAPC particles a promising candidate in the pharmaceutical field of research. The focus of the present study was the development of particles which penetrate the mucus barrier to approach the underlying epithelium. Improvements of particles that penetrate the mucus followed by cell uptake in this direction are ongoing.

Fe3O4–graphene hybrids: nanoscale characterization and their enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption in gigahertz range

Abstract: Fe3O4–graphene hybrid materials have been fabricated by a simple polyol method, and their morphology, chemistry and crystal structure have been characterized at the nanoscale. It is found that each Fe3O4 nanoparticles decorated on the graphene has a polycrystalline fcc spinel structure and a uniform chemical phase. Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy suggest that Fe3O4 nanoparticles are chemically bonded to the graphene sheets. Electromagnetic wave absorption shows that the material has a reflection loss exceeding −10 dB in 7.5–18 GHz for an absorber thickness of 1.48–3 mm, accompanying a maximum reflection loss value of −30.1 dB at a 1.48-mm matching thickness and 17.2-GHz matching frequency. Theoretic analysis shows that the electromagnetic wave absorption behavior obeys quarter-wave principles. The results suggest that the magnetic Fe3O4–graphene hybrids are good candidates for the use as a light-weight electromagnetic wave-absorbing material in X- and Ku-bands.

Enhanced microwave shielding and mechanical properties of high loading MWCNT–epoxy composites

Abstract: Dispersion of high loading of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in epoxy resin is a challenging task for the development of efficient and thin electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. Up to 20 wt% of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) loading in the composite was achieved by forming CNT prepreg in the epoxy resin as a first step. These prepreg laminates were then compression molded to form composites which resulted in EMI shielding effectiveness of −19 dB for 0.35 mm thick film and −60 dB at for 1.75 mm thick composites in the X-band (8.2–12.4 GHz). One of the reasons for such high shielding is attributed to the high electrical conductivity of the order of 9 S cm−1 achieved in these composites which is at least an order of magnitude higher than previously reported results at this loading. In addition, an improvement of 40 % in the tensile strength over the neat resin value is observed. Thermal conductivity of the MWCNTs–epoxy composite reached 2.18 W/mK as compared to only 0.14 W/mK for cured epoxy.

Scenarios and methods that induce protruding or released CNTs after degradation of nanocomposite materials

Abstract: Nanocomposite materials may be considered as a low-risk application of nanotechnology, if the nanofillers remain embedded throughout the life-cycle of the products in which they are embedded. We hypothesize that release of free CNTs occurs by a combination of mechanical stress and chemical degradation of the polymer matrix. We experimentally address limiting cases: Mechanically released fragments may show tubular protrusions on their surface. Here we identify these protrusions unambiguously as naked CNTs by chemically resolved microscopy and a suitable preparation protocol. By size-selective quantification of fragments we establish as a lower limit that at least 95 % of the CNTs remain embedded. Contrary to classical fiber composite approaches, we link this phenomenon to matrix materials with only a few percent elongation at break, predicting which materials should still cover their CNT nanofillers after machining. Protruding networks of CNTs remain after photochemical degradation of the matrix, and we show that it takes the worst case combinations of weathering plus high-shear wear to release free CNTs in the order of mg/m2/year. Synergy of chemical degradation and mechanical energy input is identified as the priority scenario of CNT release, but its lab simulation by combined methods is still far from real-world validation.