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Molecular-level control of feature separation in one-dimensional nanostructure assemblies formed by biomolecular nanolithography.
Woehrle, Gerd H; Warner, Marvin G; Hutchison, James E
In this paper, we present a convenient and reliable method to organize small gold nanoparticles (d(CORE) = 1.5 nm) into linear chains with precisely controlled interparticle spacing over a range of 1.5-2.8 nm through biomolecular nanolithography. Controlling the feature separations of 1 to a few nanometers with angstrom-level precision is a key requirement in electronic and optical applications of nanostructures to tune the properties of the nanostructures and manipulate the interactions between neighboring structures. Here, chains are formed in solution by utilizing functional-group-directed self-assembly to organize ligand-stabilized gold nanoparticles onto DNA templates. The spacing between neighboring nanoparticles can be controlled chemically and tuned at the molecular level by utilizing nanoparticles possessing ligand shells of varying thickness to achieve angstrom-level resolution at spacings of 1.5, 2.1, and 2.8 nm. The small standard deviation (< or = 20%) in the values for the interparticle spacing illustrates the reproducibility of the approach. Because the interparticle spacing is enforced by the ligand shell rather than the scaffold, the spacing is uniform even in nonlinear sections of the chain. We further show that the assembly process is robust and produces extended linear nanoparticle chains of up to 1 microm in length and a total coverage of > 90%. All structures and interparticle spacings were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. Our results demonstrate the potential of scaffold-assisted assembly approaches for patterning features with tunable dimensions on a length scale that is important for future applications of these materials in nanoscale electronics and optics.
Composite materials formed with anchored nanostructures
Seals, Roland D; Menchhofer, Paul A; Howe, Jane Y; Wang, Wei
A method of forming nano-structure composite materials that have a binder material and a nanostructure fiber material is described. A precursor material may be formed using a mixture of at least one metal powder and anchored nanostructure materials. The metal powder mixture may be (a) Ni powder and (b) NiAl powder. The anchored nanostructure materials may comprise (i) NiAl powder as a support material and (ii) carbon nanotubes attached to nanoparticles adjacent to a surface of the support material. The process of forming nano-structure composite materials typically involves sintering the mixture under vacuum in a die. When Ni and NiAl are used in the metal powder mixture Ni.sub.3Al may form as the binder material after sintering. The mixture is sintered until it consolidates to form the nano-structure composite material.
Supramolecular Nanostructures Formed by Anticancer Drug Assembly
Cheetham, Andrew G.; Zhang, Pengcheng; Lin, Yi-an; Lock, Lye Lin; Cui, Honggang
We report here a supramolecular strategy to directly assemble the small molecular hydrophobic anticancer drug camptothecin (CPT) into discrete, stable, well-defined nanostructures with a high and quantitative drug loading. Depending on the number of CPTs in the molecular design, the resulting nanostructures can be either nanofibers or nanotubes, and have a fixed CPT loading content ranging from 23% to 38%. We found that formation of nanostructures provides protection for both the CPT drug and the biodegradable linker from the external environment and thus offers a mechanism for controlled release of CPT. Under tumor-relevant conditions, these drug nanostructures can release the bioactive form of CPT and show in vitro efficacy against a number of cancer cell lines. This strategy can be extended to construct nanostructures of other types of anticancer drugs, and thus presents new opportunities for the development of self-delivering drugs for cancer therapeutics. PMID:23379791
Ordered biological nanostructures formed from chaperonin polypeptides
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Trent, Jonathan D. (Inventor); McMillan, R. Andrew (Inventor); Kagawa, Hiromi (Inventor); Paavola, Chad D. (Inventor)
The following application relates to nanotemplates, nanostructures, nanoarrays and nanodevices formed from wild-type and mutated chaperonin polypeptides, methods of producing such compositions, methods of using such compositions and particular chaperonin polypeptides that can be utilized in producing such compositions.
Microfabricated structures and devices featuring nanostructured titania thin films
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Monkowski, Adam J.
When titanium reacts with hydrogen peroxide at 80°C--100°C, a nanostructured titania (NST) thin film is formed on the titanium surface. This nanostructured film is particularly suited for integration with thin film and bulk microfabrication techniques. The ability to manufacture devices in a batch format is a principal advantage of microfabrication-based production. To reliably produce arrays of micro-patterned NST thin films on the wafer scale, a patterning guideline must be considered. The formation of NST relies on a re-deposition process; adequate ti-peroxo species must be generated and remain at the solid-solution interface. Numerical analysis of the characteristic transient diffusion behavior for various micro-patterns has been compared with experimental data to generate a criterion to guide the design of NST micro-patterns. Wafer scale arrays of NST micro gas-sensors have been fabricated using standard thin film techniques. Sensing elements are 20 mum on a side. High sensitivity to hydrogen is achieved by modification of the sensors with platinum nanoparticles. When exposed to a 10 mT partial pressure of hydrogen at 250°C, the functionalized devices exhibit more than one order of magnitude resistance decrease with a response time of approximately 7 sec. Titanium microstructures formed using the titanium ICP deep etch (TIDE) process have been integrated with NST films to produce an ordered nanostructure-microstructure composite (3D-NST). The process developed allows for the incorporation of a planar top surface, advantageous for bonding and sealing applications, in which the nanostructured thin film is formed only on feature sidewalls and floors. When titanium microstructures are spaced less than 1 mum apart, titania nanostructures bridge adjacent features. NST and 3D-NST structures have been assembled and tested in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) device. The NST film is approximately 900nm thick; this yielded a DSSC with an efficiency of 1.8%, similar
Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy and Small Angle Neutron Scattering Characterization of the Effect of Mn on the Nanostructural Features formed in Irradiated Fe-Cu-Mn Alloys
Glade, S C; Wirth, B D; Asoka-Kumar, P; Odette, G R; Sterne, P A; Howell, R H
The size, number density and composition of the nanometer defects responsible for the hardening and embrittlement in irradiated Fe-0.9wt.% Cu and Fe-0.9wt.% Cu-1.0wt% Mn model reactor pressure vessel alloys were measured using small angle neutron scattering and positron annihilation spectroscopy. These alloys were irradiated at 290 C to relatively low neutron fluences (E > 1 MeV, 6.0 x 10{sup 20} to 4.0 x 10{sup 21} n/m{sup 2}) in order to study the effect of manganese on the nucleation and growth of copper rich precipitates and secondary defect features. Copper rich precipitates were present in both alloys following irradiation. The Fe-Cu-Mn alloy had smaller precipitates and a larger number density of precipitates, suggesting Mn segregation at the iron matrix-precipitate interface which reduces the interfacial energy and in turn the driving force for coarsening. Mn also retards the precipitation kinetics and inhibits large vacancy cluster formation, suggesting a strong Mn-vacancy interaction which reduces radiation enhanced diffusion.
Charge-free method of forming nanostructures on a substrate
Hoffbauer; Mark , Akhadov; Elshan
A charge-free method of forming a nanostructure at low temperatures on a substrate. A substrate that is reactive with one of atomic oxygen and nitrogen is provided. A flux of neutral atoms of least one of oxygen and nitrogen is generated within a laser-sustained-discharge plasma source and a collimated beam of energetic neutral atoms and molecules is directed from the plasma source onto a surface of the substrate to form the nanostructure. The energetic neutral atoms and molecules in the beam have an average kinetic energy in a range from about 1 eV to about 5 eV.
Nanostructured thermoelectrics: big efficiency gains from small features.
Vineis, Christopher J; Shakouri, Ali; Majumdar, Arun; Kanatzidis, Mercouri G
The field of thermoelectrics has progressed enormously and is now growing steadily because of recently demonstrated advances and strong global demand for cost-effective, pollution-free forms of energy conversion. Rapid growth and exciting innovative breakthroughs in the field over the last 10-15 years have occurred in large part due to a new fundamental focus on nanostructured materials. As a result of the greatly increased research activity in this field, a substantial amount of new data--especially related to materials--have been generated. Although this has led to stronger insight and understanding of thermoelectric principles, it has also resulted in misconceptions and misunderstanding about some fundamental issues. This article sets out to summarize and clarify the current understanding in this field; explain the underpinnings of breakthroughs reported in the past decade; and provide a critical review of various concepts and experimental results related to nanostructured thermoelectrics. We believe recent achievements in the field augur great possibilities for thermoelectric power generation and cooling, and discuss future paths forward that build on these exciting nanostructuring concepts.
Nanostructured thermoelectrics : big efficiency gains from small features.
Vineis, C. J.; Shakouri, A.; Majumdar, A.; Kanatzidis, M. G.; Materials Science Division; Northwestern Univ.; Univ.of California at Santa Cruz; Univ. of California at Berkeley
The field of thermoelectrics has progressed enormously and is now growing steadily because of recently demonstrated advances and strong global demand for cost-effective, pollution-free forms of energy conversion. Rapid growth and exciting innovative breakthroughs in the field over the last 10-15 years have occurred in large part due to a new fundamental focus on nanostructured materials. As a result of the greatly increased research activity in this field, a substantial amount of new data - especially related to materials - have been generated. Although this has led to stronger insight and understanding of thermoelectric principles, it has also resulted in misconceptions and misunderstanding about some fundamental issues. This article sets out to summarize and clarify the current understanding in this field; explain the underpinnings of breakthroughs reported in the past decade; and provide a critical review of various concepts and experimental results related to nanostructured thermoelectrics. We believe recent achievements in the field augur great possibilities for thermoelectric power generation and cooling, and discuss future paths forward that build on these exciting nanostructuring concepts.
Platinum nanostructures formed by femtosecond laser irradiation in water
Huo Haibin; Shen Mengyan
Platinum nanostructures with various morphologies, such as spike-like, ripple-like and array-like structures, have been fabricated by 400 nm and 800 nm femtosecond laser irradiation in water. Different structures can be formed on the surfaces as a function of the laser wavelength, the fluence and scan methods. The reflectance measurements of these structures show much larger absorption on the irradiated surfaces than untreated platinum surfaces.
Nanostructures formed by cyclodextrin covered aminobenzophenones through supramolecular self assembly
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rajendiran, N.; Sankaranarayanan, R. K.; Saravanan, J.
Cyclodextrin (α and β) based nanostructures formed with 2-aminobenzophenone, 3-aminobenzophenone through the supramolecular self assembly are studied by absorption, fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence, SEM, TEM, FT-IR, DSC, PXRD and 1H NMR. The unequal layer by layer nanosheets and nanoribbons are formed through self assembly of 3ABP/CD inclusion complexes. 2ABP/α-CD complex nanostructures show the self assembly hierarchical thread structure and β-CD complexes displays a nanobrick structure. The formation of nanostructures are prearranged to Hsbnd O⋯H, NH2⋯O and H2N⋯H intermolecular hydrogen bond between individual complexes. The absorption and fluorescence spectral changes explicit formation of 1:1 inclusion complexes and solvent study demonstrate the ESIPT and TICT present in both molecules. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔG and ΔS) of 2ABP and 3ABP molecule and the inclusion complexes were determined from semiempirical PM3 calculations.
Waste Form Features, Events, and Processes
R. Schreiner
The purpose of this report is to evaluate and document the inclusion or exclusion of the waste form features, events and processes (FEPs) with respect to modeling used to support the Total System Performance Assessment for License Application (TSPA-LA). A screening decision, either Included or Excluded, is given for each FEP along with the technical bases for screening decisions. This information is required by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in 10 CFR 63.114 (d, e, and f) [DIRS 156605]. The FEPs addressed in this report deal with the issues related to the degradation and potential failure of the waste form and the migration of the waste form colloids. For included FEPs, this analysis summarizes the implementation of the FEP in TSPA-LA, (i.e., how the FEP is included). For excluded FEPs, this analysis provides the technical bases for exclusion from TSPA-LA (i.e., why the FEP is excluded). This revision addresses the TSPA-LA FEP list (DTN: MO0407SEPFEPLA.000 [DIRS 170760]). The primary purpose of this report is to identify and document the analyses and resolution of the features, events, and processes (FEPs) associated with the waste form performance in the repository. Forty FEPs were identified that are associated with the waste form performance. This report has been prepared to document the screening methodology used in the process of FEP inclusion and exclusion. The analyses documented in this report are for the license application (LA) base case design (BSC 2004 [DIRS 168489]). In this design, a drip shield is placed over the waste package and no backfill is placed over the drip shield (BSC 2004 [DIRS 168489]). Each FEP may include one or more specific issues that are collectively described by a FEP name and a FEP description. The FEP description may encompass a single feature, process or event, or a few closely related or coupled processes if the entire FEP can be addressed by a single specific screening argument or TSPA-LA disposition. The FEPs are
Characterization of Nanostructural Features in Irradiated Reactor Pressure Vessel Model Alloys
Wirth, B D; Odette, G R; Asoka-Kumar, P; Howell, R H; Sterne, P A
Irradiation embrittlement in nuclear reactor pressure vessel steels results from the formation of a high number density of nanometer-sized copper rich precipitates and sub-nanometer defect-solute clusters. We present results of small angle neutron scattering (SANS) and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) characterization of the nanostructural features formed in binary and ternary Fe-Cu-Mn alloys irradiated at {approx}290 C. These complementary techniques provide insight into the composition and character of both types of nanoscale features. The SANS measurements indicate populations of copper-manganese precipitates and smaller vacancy-copper-manganese clusters. The PAS characterization, including both Doppler broadening and positron lifetime measurements, indicates the presence of essentially defect-free Cu precipitates in the Fe-Cu-Mn alloy and vacancy-copper clusters in the Fe-Cu alloy. Thus the SANS and PAS provide a self-consistent picture of nanostructures composed of copper-rich precipitates and vacancy solute cluster complexes and tend to discount high Fe concentrations in the CRPs.
Electrophysical properties and structural features of shungite (natural nanostructured carbon)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Golubev, E. A.
This paper presents the results of investigations of the electrical conductive properties with a nanoscale locality at nanoampere currents and the results of an analysis of the correlation between the electrical conductivity and structural features of natural glassy carbon, i.e., shungite. The investigations have been performed using atomic force microscopy, electric force spectroscopy, scanning spreading resistance microscopy, X-ray spectroscopic analysis, and Raman spectroscopy. It has been found that there are differences in electrical conductive properties of the structurally similar shungite samples formed under different PT conditions. Based on the analysis of the structural parameters and specific features of the shungite compositions, it has been shown that the effect of intercalation of impurities into boundary layers of graphene sheets has the most significant influence on the electrical and physical properties of the shungites. The differences in types and values of conductivity of the shungite samples are determined by the different degrees of intercalation.
Nanostructured gold architectures formed through high pressure-driven sintering of spherical nanoparticle arrays.
Wu, Huimeng; Bai, Feng; Sun, Zaicheng; Haddad, Raid E; Boye, Daniel M; Wang, Zhongwu; Huang, Jian Yu; Fan, Hongyou
We have demonstrated pressure-directed assembly for preparation of a new class of chemically and mechanically stable gold nanostructures through high pressure-driven sintering of nanoparticle assemblies at room temperature. We show that under a hydrostatic pressure field, the unit cell dimension of a 3D ordered nanoparticle array can be reversibly manipulated allowing fine-tuning of the interparticle separation distance. In addition, 3D nanostructured gold architecture can be formed through high pressure-induced nanoparticle sintering. This work opens a new pathway for engineering and fabrication of different metal nanostructured architectures.
Light-reducible dissipative nanostructures formed at the solid-liquid interface.
Soejima, Tetsuro; Amako, Yuta; Ito, Seishiro; Kimizuka, Nobuo
Dissipative structures are macroscopic or even larger ordered structures that emerge under conditions far from thermodynamic equilibrium. In contrast, molecular self-assembly has been investigated near at the thermodynamic equilibrium, which provides basically smaller, nano-to-micron sized structures. In terms of the formation principles, there exists an essential gap between the dissipative structures and molecular self-assemblies. To fill this gap, molecular self-assembly of light-reducible organic-inorganic ion pairs was investigated under far-from-equilibrium conditions. When solid films of tetraalkylammonium hexafluorophosphate were immersed in aqueous Au(OH)4(-) and immediately photoirradiated, gold nanowires are formed at the solid-aqueous interface. On the other hand, such nanowires were not formed when the photoirradiation was conducted for the specimens after a prolonged immersion period of 60 min. These observations indicate spontaneous growth of dissipative nanofibrous self-assemblies consisting of light-reducible ion pairs [tetraalkylammonium ion][Au(OH)4(-)] at the interface and their photoreduction to give developed nanowires. These nanowires are not available by the photoreduction of Au(OH)4(-) ions under conditions near at the thermodynamic equilibrium. A picture for the dissipative nanostructures is obtained: the formation of amphiphilic light-reducible nanowire structures is based on the static self-assembly near at the thermodynamic equilibrium, whereas their spontaneous, anisotropic growth from the interface to the aqueous phase is directed by dynamic, dissipative self-assembly phenomena under the far-from-equilibrium conditions. Thus, the both elements of dissipative self-assembly (dynamic) and static molecular self-assembly fuse together at the nanoscale, which is an essential feature of the dissipative nanostructures.
Nanostructural and biogeochemical features of the crinoid stereom
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gorzelak, P.; Stolarski, J.; Mazur, M.; Marrocchi, Y.; Meibom, A.; Chalmin, E.
Representatives of all echinoderm clades (e.g., echinoids, holothuroids, ophiuroids, asteroids, and crinoids) form elaborate calcitic (polymorph of calcium carbonate) skeletons composed of numerous plates. Each plate consists of a three-dimensional meshwork of mineral trabeculae (stereom) that results from precisely orchestrated biomineralization processes. Individual skeletal plates behave as single calcite crystals as shown by X-ray diffraction and polarizing microscopy, however, their physico-chemical properties differ significantly from the properties of geologic or synthetic calcites. For example, echinoderm bio-calcite does not show cleavage planes typical of calcite but reveals conchoidal fracture surfaces that reduce the brittleness of the material. The unique properties of echinoderm bio-calcite result from intimate involvement of organic molecules in the biomineralization process and their incorporation into the crystal structure. Remnants of echinoderm skeleton are among the most frequently found fossils in the Mesozoic and Palaeozoic rocks thus, in order to use them as environmental proxies, it is necessary to understand the degree of biological ("vital effect") and inorganic control over their formation. Here, we show first nanoscale structural and biogeochemical properties of the stereom of extant and fossil crinoids. Using FESEM and AFM imaging techniques we show that the skeleton has nanocomposite structure: individual grains have ca. 100 nm in diameter and occasionally form larger aggregates. Fine scale geobiochemical mappings of crinoid plates (NanoSIMS microprobe) show that Mg is distributed heterogeneously in the stereom with higher concentration in the middle part of the trabecular bars. Although organic components constitute only ca. 0.10-0.26 wt% of modern echinoderm bio-calcite, in situ synchrotron sulphur K-edge x-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra show that the central parts of stereom bars contain higher levels of SO4 that
Eigenanalysis of morphological diversity in silicon random nanostructures formed via resist collapse
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Naruse, Makoto; Hoga, Morihisa; Ohyagi, Yasuyuki; Nishio, Shumpei; Tate, Naoya; Yoshida, Naoki; Matsumoto, Tsutomu
Nano-artifact metrics is an information security principle and technology that exploits physically uncontrollable processes occurring at the nanometer-scale to protect against increasing security threats. Versatile morphological patterns formed on the surfaces of planar silicon devices originating from resist collapse are one of the most unique and useful vehicles for nano-artifact metrics. In this study, we demonstrate the eigenanalysis of experimentally fabricated silicon random nanostructures, through which the diversity and the potential capacity of identities are quantitatively characterized. Our eigenspace-based approach provides intuitive physical pictures and quantitative discussions regarding the morphological diversity of nanostructured devices while unifying measurement stability, which is one of the most important concerns regarding security applications. The analysis suggests approximately 10115 possible identities per 0.18-μm2 nanostructure area, indicating the usefulness of nanoscale versatile morphology. The presented eigenanalysis approach has the potential to be widely applicable to other materials, devices, and system architectures.
Nanostructured Arrays Formed by Finely Focused Ion Beams
Budai, J.D.; Datsos, P.G.; Feldman, L.C.; Heinig, K.-H.; Meldrum, A.; Strobel, M.; Thomas, K.A.; Warmack, R.J.; White, C.W.; Zuhr, R.A.
Amorphous, polycrystalline, and single crystal nanometer dimension particles can be formed in a variety of substrates by ion implantation and subsequent annealing. Such composite colloidal materials exhibit unique optical properties that could be useful in optical devices, switches, and waveguides. However colloids formed by blanket implantation are not uniform in size due to the nonuniform density of the implant, resulting in diminution of the size dependent optical properties. The object of the present work is to form more uniform size particles arranged in a 2-dimensional lattice by using a finely focused ion beam to implant identical ion doses only into nanometer size regions located at each point of a rectangular lattice. Initial work is being done with a 30 keV Ga beam implanted into Si. Results of particle formation as a function of implant conditions as analyzed by Rutherford backscattering, x-ray analysis, atomic force microscopy, and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy will be presented and discussed.
Method of making nanostructured glass-ceramic waste forms
Gao, Huizhen; Wang, Yifeng; Rodriguez, Mark A.; Bencoe, Denise N.
A waste form for and a method of rendering hazardous materials less dangerous is disclosed that includes fixing the hazardous material in nanopores of a nanoporous material, reacting the trapped hazardous material to render it less volatile/soluble, and vitrifying the nanoporous material containing the less volatile/soluble hazardous material.
Studies of nanostructures formed in T-10 tokamak
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kolbasov, B. N.; Stankevich, V. G.; Svechnikov, N. Yu; Lebedev, A. M.; Menshikov, K. A.; Rajarathnam, D.; Somenkov, V. A.; Trunova, V. A.; Veligzhanin, A. A.; Zubavichus, Y. V.
According to the X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies, hydrocarbon films and flakes formed under deuterium plasma discharges in T-10 tokamak are amorphous with graphene-like sheets. They have atomic ratio (D + H)/C about 1 and higher. The XRD peak positions revealed the presence of structural defects with interplane distances of 0.12, 0.24 and 0.66 nm. The peak widths gave the in-plane sizes of the scattering structures equal to about 1 nm. The properties of such films were studied with application of small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering measurements, neutron diffraction and other techniques. These experiments have shown that the films contain about 63% of sp3 and ~37% of sp2 states. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy employing synchrotron radiation revealed that the films contain at least 12 impurities of Fe, Mo, Cr, Ni, Nb and other transition metals. Difference between film properties on its opposite sides was revealed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and analysis of current-voltage characteristics (CVC). On the wall facing side of the film, graphite-like Csp2 structures dominate. On the plasma facing side, diamond-like Csp3 structures prevail. Deuterium retention can be monitored by two groups of vibrational sp3 modes with different oscillator strengths, depending on the amount of deuterium in films.
Study of the technology of the plasma nanostructuring of silicon to form highly efficient emission structures
Galperin, V. A.; Kitsyuk, E. P.; Pavlov, A. A.; Shamanaev, A. A.
New methods for silicon nanostructuring and the possibility of raising the aspect ratios of the structures being formed are considered. It is shown that the technology developed relates to self-formation methods and is an efficient tool for improving the quality of field-emission cathodes based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by increasing the Si–CNT contact area and raising the efficiency of the heat sink.
Flavonol-carbon nanostructure hybrid systems: a DFT study on the interaction mechanism and UV/Vis features.
García, Gregorio; Atilhan, Mert; Aparicio, Santiago
Flavonols are a class of natural compounds with potential biological and pharmacological applications. They are also natural pigments responsible for the diversity of colors in plants. Flavonols offer the possibility of tuning their features through chemical functionalization as well as the presence of an aromatic backbone, which could lead to non-covalent interactions with different nanostructures or aromatic molecules. In this work, a protocol based on ONIOM (QM/QM) calculations to investigate the structural features (binding energies, intermolecular interactions) of flavonols interacting with the surface of several carbon nanostructures (such as graphene, fullerene C60 and carbon nanotubes) is developed. The confinement of flavonols inside carbon nanotubes has also been studied. Three flavonols, galangin, quercetin and myricetin, as well as pristine flavone were selected. Special attention has also been paid to the changes in UV/Vis features of flavonols due to the interaction with carbon nanostructures. Our results point out that π-stacking interactions are the driving force for the adsorption onto carbon nanostructures as well as for the confinement inside carbon nanotubes. Likewise, UV/Vis features of flavonols could be fine-tuned through the interaction with suitable carbon nanostructures.
Electrolyte composition dependence of the morphological and nanostructural features of porous silicon prepared by electrochemical anodic etching
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kim, Hyo-Han; Son, Jong-Ick; Yun, Han-Sol; Cho, Nam-Hee
Porous silicon layers were formed by electrochemical anodic etching of p-type Si wafers. The electrostatic condition at the interface between the Si wafers and electrolytes was affected sensitively by the addition of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) in the etchant. As the IPA ratio was varied in the range of 0 to 75%, the ideality factor in the ln I-V relationships and the viscosity of the electrolytes changed from 27.2 to 16.0, and from 1.0 to 3.3 cp, respectively. The etched surface exhibited three different morphologies, such as `turtle-back'-, `column'-, and `mountain'-like structures depending on the electrolyte composition. The etched layers contained Si nanocrystallites, 5.5 to 2.6 nm in size, which exhibited photoluminescence features in the wavelength range, 733 to 624 nm. The variation of the band gap was determined by size of the nanocrystallites, whereas the nanostructural and morphological features were dependent on the IPA ratios of the etchants.
Nanostructured proton conductors formed via in situ polymerization of ionic liquid crystals.
Lu, Fei; Gao, Xinpei; Dong, Bin; Sun, Panpan; Sun, Nan; Xie, Shuting; Zheng, Liqiang
Ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) with hexagonal and lamellar phases were successfully fabricated by the self-assembly of a polymerizable amphiphilic zwitterion, which is formed by 3-(1-vinyl-3-imidazolio)propanesulfonate (VIPS) and 4-dodecyl benzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) based on intermolecular electrostatic interactions. The microstructures and phase behaviors of ILCs were studied by polarized microscope (POM) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The ILC topological structures can be considered as proton pathways and further fixed by photopolymerization to prepare nanostructured proton-conductive films. The introduction of highly ordered and well-defined ILC structures into these polymeric films radically improves the ionic conductivities.
Spray-Formed Tooling with Micro-Scale Features
Kevin McHugh
Molds, dies, and related tooling are used to shape many of the plastic and metal components we use every day at home and work. Traditional mold-making practices are labor and capital equipment intensive, involving multiple machining, benching and heat treatment operations. Spray forming is an alternative method to manufacture molds and dies. The general concept is to atomize and deposit droplets of a tooling alloy onto a pattern to form a thick deposit while imaging the pattern's shape, surface texture and details. Unlike conventional machining, this approach can be used to fabricate tooling with micro-scale surface features. This paper describes a research effort to spray form molds and dies that are used to image micro-scale surface textures into polymers. The goal of the study is to replicate textures that give rise to superhydrophobic behavior by mimicking the surface structure of highly water repellent biological materials such as the lotus leaf. Spray conditions leading to high transfer fidelity of features into the surface of molded polymers will be described. Improvements in water repellency of these materials was quantified by measuring the static contact angle of water droplets on flat and textured surfaces.
Nanostructure and Composition of Tribo-Boundary Films Formed in Ionic Liquid Lubrication
Qu, Jun; Chi, Miaofang; Meyer III, Harry M; Blau, Peter Julian; Dai, Sheng; Luo, Huimin
Since the idea of using ionic liquids (ILs) as lubricants was raised in 2001, many studies have been conducted in this area and results have demonstrated superior lubricating performance for a variety of ionic liquids. It is widely believed that tribochemical reactions occur between the metal surface and the IL during the wear process to form a protective tribo-boundary film on the contact area that reduces friction and wear. However, the study of this critical boundary film has been limited to top surface two-dimensional topography examination and chemical analysis in the literature. A more comprehensive characterization is needed to help understand the film formation process and the lubricating mechanism. This study demonstrated a multi-technique three-dimensional approach to characterize the IL-formed boundary films, including top surface morphology examination, cross section nanostructure characterization, and layered chemical analysis. Characterization was carried out on both ferrous and aluminum surfaces lubricated by an ammonium IL. The focused-ion-beam (FIB) technique enabled TEM/EDS examination on the cross section of the boundary film to provide direct measurement of the film thickness, visualization of the nanostructure, and analysis of composition. In addition, composition-depth profiles were generated using XPS aided by ion-sputtering to reveal the composition change at different levels of the boundary film to investigate the film formation process.
Endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell function on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) with nano-structured surface features.
Miller, Derick C; Thapa, Anil; Haberstroh, Karen M; Webster, Thomas J
Biomaterials that successfully integrate into surrounding tissue should match not only the tissue's mechanical properties, but also its topography. The cellular response to a biomaterial may be enhanced in synthetic polymer formulations by mimicking the surface roughness created by the associated nano-structured extra-cellular matrix components of natural tissue. As a first step towards this endeavor, the goal of the present in vitro study was to use these design parameters to develop a synthetic, nano-structured, polymeric biomaterial that promotes cell adhesion and growth for vascular applications. In a novel manner, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) (50/50wt% mix) was synthesized to possess a range (from micron to nanometer) of surface features. Reduction of surface features was accomplished by treating conventional PLGA with various concentrations of NaOH for select periods of time. Results from cell experiments indicated that, compared to conventional PLGA, NaOH treated PLGA enhanced vascular smooth muscle cell adhesion and proliferation. However, PLGA prepared by soaking in NaOH decreased endothelial cell adhesion and proliferation compared to conventional PLGA. After further investigation, this finding was determined to be a result of chemical (and not topographical) changes during polymer synthesis. Surface chemistry effects were removed while retaining nano-structured topography by using polymer/elastomer casting methods. Results demonstrated that endothelial and smooth muscle cell densities increased on nano-structured cast PLGA. For these reasons, the present in vitro study provided the first evidence that nano-structured surface features can significantly improve vascular cell densities; such design criteria can be used in the synthesis of the next-generation of more successful tissue-engineered vascular grafts.
The role of nanoscale defect features in enhancing the thermoelectric performance of p-type nanostructured SiGe alloys.
Bathula, Sivaiah; Jayasimhadri, M; Gahtori, Bhasker; Singh, Niraj Kumar; Tyagi, Kriti; Srivastava, A K; Dhar, Ajay
Despite SiGe being one of the most widely studied thermoelectric materials owing to its application in radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG), the thermoelectric figure-of merit (ZT) of p-type SiGe is still quite low, resulting in poor device efficiencies. In the present study, we report a substantial enhancement in ZT∼ 1.2 at 900 °C for p-type nanostructured Si80Ge20 alloys by creating several types of defect features within the Si80Ge20 nanostructured matrix in a spectrum of nano to meso-scale dimensions during its nanostructuring, by employing mechanical alloying followed by spark plasma sintering. This enhancement in ZT, which is ∼25% over the existing state-of-the-art value for a p-type nanostructured Si80Ge20 alloy, is primarily due to its ultralow thermal conductivity of ∼2.04 W m(-1) K(-1) at 900 °C, resulting from the scattering of low-to-high wavelength heat-carrying phonons by different types of defect features in a range of nano to meso-scale dimensions in the Si80Ge20 nanostructured matrix. These include point defects, dislocations, isolated amorphous regions, nano-scale grain boundaries and more importantly, the nano to meso-scale residual porosity distributed throughout the Si80Ge20 matrix. These nanoscale multi-dimensional defect features have been characterized by employing scanning and transmission electron microscopy and correlated with the electrical and thermal transport properties, based on which the enhancement of ZT has been discussed.
Promising features of low-temperature grown Ge nanostructures on Si(001) substrates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Ze; Wang, Shuguang; Yin, Yefei; Liu, Tao; Lin, Dongdong; Li, De-hui; Yang, Xinju; Jiang, Zuimin; Zhong, Zhenyang
High-quality Ge nanostructures are obtained by molecular beam epitaxy of Ge on Si(001) substrates at 200 °C and ex situ annealing at 400 °C. Their structural properties are comprehensively characterized by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. It is disclosed that they are almost defect free except for some defects at the Ge/Si interface and in the subsequent Si capping layer. The misfit strain in the nanostructure is substantially relaxed. Dramatically strong photoluminescence (PL) from the Ge nanostructures is observed. Detailed analyses on the power- and temperature-dependent PL spectra, together with a self-consistent calculation, indicate the confinement and the high quantum efficiency of excitons within the Ge nanostructures. Our results demonstrate that the Ge nanostructures obtained via the present feasible route may have great potential in optoelectronic devices for monolithic optical–electronic integration circuits.
Promising features of low-temperature grown Ge nanostructures on Si(001) substrates.
Wang, Ze; Wang, Shuguang; Yin, Yefei; Liu, Tao; Lin, Dongdong; Li, De-Hui; Yang, Xinju; Jiang, Zuimin; Zhong, Zhenyang
High-quality Ge nanostructures are obtained by molecular beam epitaxy of Ge on Si(001) substrates at 200 °C and ex situ annealing at 400 °C. Their structural properties are comprehensively characterized by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. It is disclosed that they are almost defect free except for some defects at the Ge/Si interface and in the subsequent Si capping layer. The misfit strain in the nanostructure is substantially relaxed. Dramatically strong photoluminescence (PL) from the Ge nanostructures is observed. Detailed analyses on the power- and temperature-dependent PL spectra, together with a self-consistent calculation, indicate the confinement and the high quantum efficiency of excitons within the Ge nanostructures. Our results demonstrate that the Ge nanostructures obtained via the present feasible route may have great potential in optoelectronic devices for monolithic optical-electronic integration circuits.
Unique nanostructural features in Fe, Mn-doped YBCO thin films
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Meledin, A.; Turner, S.; Cayado, P.; Mundet, B.; Solano, E.; Ricart, S.; Ros, J.; Puig, T.; Obradors, X.; Van Tendeloo, G.
An attempt to grow a thin epitaxial composite film of YBa2Cu3O7-δ (YBCO) with spinel MnFe2O4 (MFO) nanoparticles on a LAO substrate using the CSD approach resulted in a decomposition of the spinel and various doping modes of YBCO with the Fe and Mn cations. These nanostructural effects lead to a lowering of T c and a slight J c increase in field. Using a combination of advanced transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques such as atomic resolution high-angle annular dark field scanning TEM, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy we have been able to decipher and characterize the effects of the Fe and Mn doping on the film architecture. The YBaCuFeO5 anion-deficient double perovskite phase was detected in the form of 3D inclusions as well as epitaxially grown lamellas within the YBCO matrix. These nano-inclusions play a positive role as pinning centers responsible for the J c/J sf (H) dependency smoothening at high magnetic fields in the YBCO-MFO films with respect to the pristine YBCO films.
Nanostructures formed by displacement of porous silicon with copper: from nanoparticles to porous membranes
The application of porous silicon as a template for the fabrication of nanosized copper objects is reported. Three different types of nanostructures were formed by displacement deposition of copper on porous silicon from hydrofluoric acid-based solutions of copper sulphate: (1) copper nanoparticles, (2) quasi-continuous copper films, and (3) free porous copper membranes. Managing the parameters of porous silicon (pore sizes, porosity), deposition time, and wettability of the copper sulphate solution has allowed to achieve such variety of the copper structures. Elemental and structural analyses of the obtained structures are presented. Young modulus measurements of the porous copper membrane have been carried out and its modest activity in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy is declared. PMID:22916840
Nanostructure characterisation of flow-formed Cr-Mo-V steel using transmission Kikuchi diffraction technique.
Birosca, S; Ding, R; Ooi, S; Buckingham, R; Coleman, C; Dicks, K
Nowadays flow-forming has become a desired near net shape manufacturing method as it provides excellent mechanical properties with improved surface finish and significant manufacturing cost reduction. However, the material is subjected to excessive plastic deformation during flow-forming process, generating a very fine and complex microstructure. In addition, the intense dislocation density and residual stress that is generated in the component during processing makes the microstructure characterisation using conventional micro-analytical tools challenging. Thus, the microstructure/property relationship study in such a material is rather difficult. In the present study a flow-formed Cr-Mo-V steel nanostructure and crystallographic texture were characterised by means of Transmission Kikuchi Diffraction (TKD). Here, TKD is shown to be a powerful technique in revealing very fine martensite laths within an austenite matrix. Moreover, fine precipitates in the order of 20-70 nm on the martensite lath boundaries were clearly imaged and characterised. This greatly assisted in understanding the preferable site formation of the carbides in such a complex microstructure. The results showed that the actual TKD spatial resolution was in the range of 5-10 nm using 25 kV for flow-formed Cr-Mo-V steel.
Flexible a-Si:H Solar Cells with Spontaneously Formed Parabolic Nanostructures on a Hexagonal-Pyramid Reflector.
Dong, Wan Jae; Yoo, Chul Jong; Cho, Hyoung Won; Kim, Kyoung-Bo; Kim, Moojin; Lee, Jong-Lam
Flexible amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) solar cells with high photoconversion efficiency (PCE) are demonstrated by embedding hexagonal pyramid nanostructures below a Ag/indium tin oxide (ITO) reflector. The nanostructures constructed by nanoimprint lithography using soft materials allow the top ITO electrode to spontaneously form parabolic nanostructures. Nanoimprint lithography using soft materials is simple, and is conducted at low temperature. The resulting structure has excellent durability under repeated bending, and thus, flexible nanostructures are successfully constructed on flexible a-Si:H solar cells on plastic film. The nanoimprinted pyramid back reflector provides a high angular light scattering with haze reflectance >98% throughout the visible spectrum. The spontaneously formed parabolic nanostructure on the top surface of the a-Si:H solar cells both reduces reflection and scatters incident light into the absorber layer, thereby elongating the optical path length. As a result, the nanopatterned a-Si:H solar cells, fabricated on polyethersulfone (PES) film, exhibit excellent mechanical flexibility and PCE increased by 48% compared with devices on a flat substrate.
Diagnostic features of relief formations on the nanostructured titanium VT1-0 surface after laser shock-wave treatment
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lytvynenko, I. V.; Lupenko, S. A.; Maruschak, P. O.; Panin, S. V.; Hats, Yu I.
A new class of diagnostic features for conducting morphological analysis of relief formations induced by laser shock-wave treatment on the surface of the nanostructured titanium VT1-0 alloy is proposed. They are the coefficients of series expansions of statistical estimates for the orthogonal basis of Chebyshev, Laguerre, Kravchuk discrete polynomials and trigonometric functions. Based on the criterion of the minimum number of the diagnostic features in the above-mentioned bases, the Chebyshev one was selected as the most appropriate to solve this problem.
Superhydrophilic nanostructure
Mao, Samuel S; Zormpa, Vasileia; Chen, Xiaobo
An embodiment of a superhydrophilic nanostructure includes nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are formed into porous clusters. The porous clusters are formed into aggregate clusters. An embodiment of an article of manufacture includes the superhydrophilic nanostructure on a substrate. An embodiment of a method of fabricating a superhydrophilic nanostructure includes applying a solution that includes nanoparticles to a substrate. The substrate is heated to form aggregate clusters of porous clusters of the nanoparticles.
Feature Article: Fast scanning tunnelling microscopy as a tool to understand changes on metal surfaces: from nanostructures to single atoms
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Morgenstern, Karina
The Feature Article [1] describes how structural changes in metallic nanostructures can be followed with fast scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The title page shows the same spot of a Ag(111) surface at room temperature, imaged with STM approximately one hour apart. Intrinsic changes to prepared nano-structures are marked as Brownian motion of vacancy islands (rectangle), coalescence of two vacancy islands (hexagon), and decay of an adatom island (circle).Karina Morgenstern is now professor at the University of Hannover. Her research is placed within the field of nanoscience and is in particular devoted to thermally activated processes of metallic nanostructures, electronically activated reactions of molecules on metallic surfaces, and water-metal interactions.The present issue of physica status solidi (b) also contains the article Apperance of copper d9 defect centres in wide-gap CdSe nanoparticles: A high-fequency EPR study by N. R. J. Poolton et al. as Editor's Choice [2] as well as several papers on electrical and nonlinear optical properties from the European Conference on Organised Films (ECOF 2004) chaired by José Antonio de Saja, Valladolid.
Form and content: looking at visual features of television.
Schmitt, K L; Anderson, D R; Collins, P A
Television viewing at home by 50 individuals in 5 age groups (2-, 5-, 8-, 12-year-olds, and adults) was recorded on 1-s time-lapse videotapes over 10-day periods. Coding was based on 5-min point samples. Analysis examined looking at the TV screen in relation to the visual presence of the features cuts, movement, animation, man, woman, child, and nonhuman; content features were child vs. adult programming and overt purposeful character behavior. Cuts, movement, and overt purposeful character behavior were positively related to looking independent of child vs. adult programming. Associations with looking for the remaining features depended on the viewer's age or sex or type of content within which they occurred.
Role of artesian groundwater in forming Martian permafrost features
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Howard, Alan D.
Various landforms possibly related to formation (growth), movement, or decay of ground ice have been identified on Mars, including fretted terrain (ft) and associated lobate debris aprons (lda), the chaotic terrain, concentric crater fills (ccf), polygonal ground, softened terrain, small domes that are possibly pingos, and curvilinear (fingerprint) features (cuf). Glaciers may also have been present. Some of these may involve ice derived from artesian groundwater. Topical areas of discussion are: Mars groundwater and the location of permafrost features; the ft, lda, ccf, and cuf; role of artesian groundwater in formation of fretted terrain, lobate debris blankets, and concentric crater fills; sources of glacial ice; and pingos and other pseudovolcanic structures.
Characterization of the nanostructure of complexes formed by single- or double-stranded oligonucleotides with a cationic surfactant.
Liu, Xiaoyang; Abbott, Nicholas L
We report the use of dynamic light scattering (DLS), small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to characterize the nanostructure of complexes formed by either single- or double-stranded oligonucleotides with a cationic surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB) in aqueous solution (1 mM Li(2)SO(4)). For single-stranded oligonucleotides 5'-A(20)-3' and 5'-CCCCATTCTAGCAGCCCGGG-3', both the appearance of two Bragg peaks (at 0.14 and 0.28 Å(-1)) in SAXS spectra with a spacing of 1:2 and form factor fits to SANS spectra are consistent with the presence of multilamellar vesicles (with, on average, 6-9 layers with a periodicity of 45-48 Å). Some samples showed evidence of an additional Bragg peak (at 0.20 Å(-1)) associated with periodic packing (with a periodicity of 31 Å) of the oligonucleotides within the lamellae of the nanostructure. The nucleotide composition of the single-stranded oligonucleotides was also found to impact the number and size of the complexes formed with CTAB. In contrast to 5'-A(20)-3' and 5'-CCCCATTCTAGCAGCCCGGG-3', 5'-T(20)-3' did not change the state of aggregation of CTAB (globular micelles) over a wide range of oligonucleotide:CTAB charge ratios. These results support the proposition that hydrophobic interactions, as well as electrostatics, play a central role in the formation of complexes between cationic amphiphiles and single-stranded oligonucleotides and thus give rise to nanostructures that depend on nucleotide composition. In contrast to the single-stranded oligonucleotides, for double-stranded oligonucleotides mixed with CTAB, three Bragg peaks (0.13, 0.23, and 0.25 Å(-1)) in SAXS spectra with a spacing ratio of 1:√3:√4 and characteristic changes in SANS spectra indicate formation of a hexagonal nanostructure. Also, the composition of the double-stranded oligonucleotides did not measurably impact the nanostructure of complexes formed with CTAB, suggesting that electrostatic
Nanostructured BN-Mg composites: features of interface bonding and mechanical properties.
Kvashnin, Dmitry G; Krasheninnikov, Arkady V; Shtansky, Dmitry; Sorokin, Pavel B; Golberg, Dmitri
Magnesium (Mg) is one of the lightest industrially used metals. However, wide applications of Mg-based components require a substantial enhancement of their mechanical characteristics. This can be achieved by introducing small particles or fibers into the metal matrix. Using first-principles calculations, we investigate the stability and mechanical properties of a nanocomposite made of magnesium reinforced with boron nitride (BN) nanostructures (BN nanotubes and BN monolayers). We show that boron vacancies at the BN/Mg interface lead to a substantial increase in BN/Mg bonding establishing an efficient route towards the development of BN/Mg composite materials with enhanced mechanical properties.
Morphological and biochemical features of Borrelia burgdorferi pleomorphic forms.
Meriläinen, Leena; Herranen, Anni; Schwarzbach, Armin; Gilbert, Leona
The spirochaete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato is the causative agent of Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne infection in the northern hemisphere. There is a long-standing debate regarding the role of pleomorphic forms in Lyme disease pathogenesis, while very little is known about the characteristics of these morphological variants. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of B. burgdorferi pleomorphic formation in different culturing conditions at physiological temperature. Interestingly, human serum induced the bacterium to change its morphology to round bodies (RBs). In addition, biofilm-like colonies in suspension were found to be part of B. burgdorferi's normal in vitro growth. Further studies provided evidence that spherical RBs had an intact and flexible cell envelope, demonstrating that they are not cell wall deficient, or degenerative as previously implied. However, the RBs displayed lower metabolic activity compared with spirochaetes. Furthermore, our results indicated that the different pleomorphic variants were distinguishable by having unique biochemical signatures. Consequently, pleomorphic B. burgdorferi should be taken into consideration as being clinically relevant and influence the development of novel diagnostics and treatment protocols.
[Featuring pathogenicity factors in biofilm-forming and no-biofilm forming strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis].
Sidashenko, O I; Voronkova, O S; Sirokvasha, O A; Vinnikov, A I
A comparative study of the manifestation of pathogenicity factors: hemolytic, lipase, letsytinase activity and ability to adhere in 20 film-forming and 17 non-film-forming strains of S. epidermidis. Studying pathogenicity factors of the film-forming strains it was found that complete hemolysis and lipase activity shown was by all the film-forming strains of S. epidermidis, letsytinase activity was observed in 80%. Among the non-film-forming strains complete hemolysis and lipase activity were observed in 89% and letsytinase - 71%. Researched non-film-forming and film-forming strains of S. epidermidis showed the ability to adhere to buccal epithelial cells of humans. Found that all the film-forming strains of S. epidermidis were hight level adgesion, the highest IAM was equal to 11,84. It was found that among non-film-forming strains of S. epidermidis were low-, medium- and hight level adgesion. IAM of non-film-forming strains of S. epidermidis is 3 times lower compared to the IAM of the film-forming strains of human epithelial cells and was 3.2.
Largely Enhanced Single-molecule Fluorescence in Plasmonic Nanogaps formed by Hybrid Silver Nanostructures
Zhang, Jian; Lakowicz, Joseph R.
It has been suggested that narrow gaps between metallic nanostructures can be practical for producing large field enhancement. We design a hybrid silver nanostructure geometry in which fluorescent emitters are sandwiched between silver nanoparticles and silver island film (SIF). A desired number of polyelectrolyte layers are deposited on the SIF surface before the self-assembly of a second silver nanoparticle layer. Layer-by-layer configuration provides a well-defined dye position. It allows us to study the photophyical behaviors of fluorophores in the resulting gap at the single molecule level. The enhancement factor of a fluorophore located in the gap is much higher than those on silver surfaces alone and on glass. These effects may be used for increased detectability of single molecules bound to surfaces which contain metallic structures for either biophysical studies or high sensitivity assays. PMID:23373787
Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy and Small Angle Neutron Scattering Characterization of Nanostructural Features in Irradiated Fe-Cu-Mn Alloys
Wirth, B D; Asoka-Kumar, P; Howell, R H; Odette, G R; Sterne, P A
Radiation embrittlement of nuclear reactor pressure vessel steels results from a high number density of nanometer sized Cu-Mn-Ni rich precipitates (CRPs) and sub-nanometer matrix features, thought to be vacancy-solute cluster complexes (VSC). However, questions exist regarding both the composition of the precipitates and the defect character and composition of the matrix features. We present results of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) and small angle neutron scattering (SANS) characterization of irradiated and thermally aged Fe-Cu and Fe-Cu-Mn alloys. These complementary techniques provide insight into the composition and character of both types of nanoscale features. The SANS measurements indicate populations of CRPs and VSCs in both alloys. The CRPs are coarser in the Fe-Cu alloy and the number densities of CRP and VSC increase with the addition of Mn. The PAS involved measuring both the positron lifetimes and the Doppler broadened annihilation spectra in the high momentum region to provide elemental sensitivity at the annihilation site. The spectra in Fe-Cu-Mn specimens thermally aged to peak hardness at 450 C and irradiated at 288 C are nearly identical to elemental Cu. Positron lifetime and spectrum measurements in Fe-Cu specimens irradiated at 288 C clearly show the existence of long lifetime ({approx}500 ps) open volume defects, which also contain Cu. Thus the SANS and PAS provide a self-consistent picture of nanostructures composed of CRPs and VSCs and tend to discount high Fe concentrations in the CRPs.
Nanostructured ZnO films in forms of rod, plate and flower: Electrodeposition mechanisms and characterization
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kıcır, Nur; Tüken, Tunç; Erken, Ozge; Gumus, Cebrail; Ufuktepe, Yuksel
Uniformity and reproducibility of well-defined ZnO nanostructures are particularly important issues for fabrication and applications of these nanomaterials. In present study, we report selective morphology control during electrodeposition, by adjusting the hydroxyl generation rate and Zn(OH)2 deposition. In presence of remarkably high chloride concentration (0.3 M) and -1.0 V deposition potential, slow precipitation conditions were provided in 5 mM Zn(NO3)2 solution. By doing so, we have obtained highly ordered, vertically aligned and uniformly spaced hexagon shaped nanoplates, on ITO surface. We have also investigated the mechanism for shifting the morphology from rod/plate to flower like structure of ZnO, for better understanding the reproducibility. For this reason, the influence of various supporting electrolytes (sodium/ammonium salts of acetate) has been investigated for interpretation of the influence of OH- concentration nearby the surface. From rod to plate and flower nanostructures, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were realized for characterization, also the optical properties were studied.
Spin-transfer torque and specific features of magnetic-state switching in vacuum tunnel nanostructures
Demin, G. D. Popkov, A. F.; Dyuzhev, N. A.
The specific features of spin-transfer torque in vacuum tunnel structures with magnetic electrodes are investigated using the quasi-classical Sommerfeld model of electron conductivity, which takes into account the exchange splitting of the spin energy subbands of free electrons. Using the calculated voltage dependences of the transferred torques for a tunnel structure with cobalt electrodes and noncollinear magnetic moments in the electrodes, diagrams of stable spin states on the current–field parameter plane in the in-plane geometry of the initial magnetization are obtained.
Unfolding a molecular trefoil derived from a zwitterionic metallopeptide to form self-assembled nanostructures.
Zhang, Ye; Zhou, Ning; Shi, Junfeng; Pochapsky, Susan Sondej; Pochapsky, Thomas C; Zhang, Bei; Zhang, Xixiang; Xu, Bing
While used extensively by nature to control the geometry of protein structures, and dynamics of proteins, such as self-organization, hydration forces and ionic interactions received less attention for controlling the behaviour of small molecules. Here we describe the synthesis and characterization of a novel zwitterionic metallopeptide consisting of a cationic core and three distal anionic groups linked by self-assembling peptide motifs. 2D NMR spectra, total correlated spectroscopy and nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy, show that the molecule exhibits a three-fold rotational symmetry and adopts a folded conformation in dimethyl sulfoxide due to Coulombic forces. When hydrated in water, the molecule unfolds to act as a self-assembling building block of supramolecular nanostructures. By combining ionic interactions with the unique geometry from metal complex and hydrophobic interactions from simple peptides, we demonstrate a new and effective way to design molecules for smart materials through mimicking a sophisticated biofunctional system using a conformational switch.
Luminescent features of novel sol-gel derived lanthanide multi-doped oxyfluoride nano-structured phosphors for white LED
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gouveia-Neto, Artur S.; da Silva, Andréa F.; Bueno, Luciano A.; Costa, Ernande B.
Rare-earth doped oxyfluoride 75SiO2:25PbF2 nano-structured phosphors for white-light-emitting diodes were synthesized by thermal treatment of precursor sol-gel derived glasses. Room temperature luminescence features of Eu3+, Sm3+, Tb3+, Eu3+/Tb3+ and Sm3+/Tb3+ ions incorporated into low-phonon-energy PbF2 nanocrystals dispersed in the aluminosilicate glass matrix and excited with UV(395 nm) and blue(405 nm) light emitting diodes was investigated. The luminescence spectra exhibited strong emission signals in the red(600, 610, 625, 646 nm), green(548, and 560 nm) and blue(485 nm) wavelength regions. White-light emission was observed in Sm/Tb and Eu/Tb double-doped activated phosphors employing UV-LED excitation at 395 nm. The dependence of the luminescence emission intensities upon annealing temperature, and rare-earth concentration was also examined. The results indicated that there exist optimum annealing temperature and activator ion concentration in order to obtain intense visible emission light with high color rendering index. The study suggest that the nanocomposite phosphor based upon 75SiO2:25PbF2 host herein reported is a promising contender for white-light LED applications.
Atomically Traceable Nanostructure Fabrication.
Ballard, Josh B; Dick, Don D; McDonnell, Stephen J; Bischof, Maia; Fu, Joseph; Owen, James H G; Owen, William R; Alexander, Justin D; Jaeger, David L; Namboodiri, Pradeep; Fuchs, Ehud; Chabal, Yves J; Wallace, Robert M; Reidy, Richard; Silver, Richard M; Randall, John N; Von Ehr, James
Reducing the scale of etched nanostructures below the 10 nm range eventually will require an atomic scale understanding of the entire fabrication process being used in order to maintain exquisite control over both feature size and feature density. Here, we demonstrate a method for tracking atomically resolved and controlled structures from initial template definition through final nanostructure metrology, opening up a pathway for top-down atomic control over nanofabrication. Hydrogen depassivation lithography is the first step of the nanoscale fabrication process followed by selective atomic layer deposition of up to 2.8 nm of titania to make a nanoscale etch mask. Contrast with the background is shown, indicating different mechanisms for growth on the desired patterns and on the H passivated background. The patterns are then transferred into the bulk using reactive ion etching to form 20 nm tall nanostructures with linewidths down to ~6 nm. To illustrate the limitations of this process, arrays of holes and lines are fabricated. The various nanofabrication process steps are performed at disparate locations, so process integration is discussed. Related issues are discussed including using fiducial marks for finding nanostructures on a macroscopic sample and protecting the chemically reactive patterned Si(100)-H surface against degradation due to atmospheric exposure.
Particulates vs. fibers: dimension featured magnetic and visible light driven photocatalytic properties of Sc modified multiferroic bismuth ferrite nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sakar, M.; Balakumar, S.; Saravanan, P.; Bharathkumar, S.
We report the magnetic and visible light driven photocatalytic properties of scandium (Sc) substituted bismuth ferrite (BSFO) particulate and fiber nanostructures. An increasing concentration of Sc was found to reduce the crystallite size, particle size and band gap energy of the BSFO nanostructures, which was evident from X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analysis respectively. The temperature dependent magnetic studies carried out using a SQUID magnetometer suggested that the origin of the magnetic properties in the pure BFO system could be the emergence of an antiferromagnetic-core/ferromagnetic-shell like structure, in contrast to the modified spin canted structures in the case of the BSFO nanostructures. The observed photocatalytic efficiency was attributed to the enhanced band bending process and recombination resistance in the BSFO nanostructures. For a comparative study, the photocatalytic activities of some selected compositions were also investigated under simulated solar light along with natural solar light.We report the magnetic and visible light driven photocatalytic properties of scandium (Sc) substituted bismuth ferrite (BSFO) particulate and fiber nanostructures. An increasing concentration of Sc was found to reduce the crystallite size, particle size and band gap energy of the BSFO nanostructures, which was evident from X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analysis respectively. The temperature dependent magnetic studies carried out using a SQUID magnetometer suggested that the origin of the magnetic properties in the pure BFO system could be the emergence of an antiferromagnetic-core/ferromagnetic-shell like structure, in contrast to the modified spin canted structures in the case of the BSFO nanostructures. The observed photocatalytic efficiency was attributed to the enhanced band bending process
Form drag in rivers due to small-scale natural topographic features: 1. Regular sequences
Kean, J.W.; Smith, J.D.
Small-scale topographic features are commonly found on the boundaries of natural rivers, streams, and floodplains. A simple method for determining the form drag on these features is presented, and the results of this model are compared to laboratory measurements. The roughness elements are modeled as Gaussian-shaped features defined in terms of three parameters: a protrusion height, H; a streamwise length scale, ??; and a spacing between crests, ??. This shape is shown to be a good approximation to a wide variety of natural topographic bank features. The form drag on an individual roughness element embedded in a series of identical elements is determined using the drag coefficient of the individual element and a reference velocity that includes the effects of roughness elements further upstream. In addition to calculating the drag on each element, the model determines the spatially averaged total stress, skin friction stress, and roughness height of the boundary. The effects of bank roughness on patterns of velocity and boundary shear stress are determined by combining the form drag model with a channel flow model. The combined model shows that drag on small-scale topographic features substantially alters the near-bank flow field. These methods can be used to improve predictions of flow resistance in rivers and to form the basis for fully predictive (no empirically adjusted parameters) channel flow models. They also provide a foundation for calculating the near-bank boundary shear stress fields necessary for determining rates of sediment transport and lateral erosion.
Karyological features of wild and cultivated forms of myrtle (Myrtus communis, Myrtaceae).
Serçe, S; Ekbiç, E; Suda, J; Gündüz, K; Kiyga, Y
Myrtle is an evergreen shrub or small tree widespread throughout the Mediterranean region. In Turkey, both cultivated and wild forms, differing in plant and fruit size and fruit composition, can be found. These differences may have resulted from the domestication of the cultivated form over a long period of time. We investigated whether wild and cultivated forms of myrtle differ in karyological features (i.e., number of somatic chromosomes and relative genome size). We sampled two wild forms and six cultivated types of myrtle. All the samples had the same chromosome number (2n = 2x = 22). The results were confirmed by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) flow cytometry. Only negligible variation (approximately 3%) in relative fluorescence intensity was observed among the different myrtle accessions, with wild genotypes having the smallest values. We concluded that despite considerable morphological differentiation, cultivated and wild myrtle genotypes in Turkey have similar karyological features.
Nanostructures formed by cyclodextrin covered procainamide through supramolecular self assembly--spectral and molecular modeling study.
Rajendiran, N; Mohandoss, T; Sankaranarayanan, R K
Inclusion complexation behavior of procainamide (PCA) with two cyclodextrins (α-CD and β-CD) were analyzed by absorption, fluorescence, scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Raman image, FT-IR, differential scanning colorimeter (DSC), Powder X ray diffraction (XRD) and (1)H NMR. Blue shift was observed in β-CD whereas no significant spectral shift observed in α-CD. The inclusion complex formation results suggest that water molecules also present in the inside of the CD cavity. The present study revealed that the phenyl ring of the PCA drug is entrapped in the CD cavity. Cyclodextrin studies show that PCA forms 1:2 inclusion complex with α-CD and β-CD. PCA:α-CD complex form nano-sized particles (46 nm) and PCA:β-CD complex form self-assembled to micro-sized tubular structures. The shape-shifting of 2D nanosheets into 1D microtubes by simple rolling mechanism were analysed by micro-Raman and TEM images. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔG and ΔS) of inclusion process were determined from semiempirical PM3 calculations.
Influence of fourfold anisotropy form on hysteresis loop shape in ferromagnetic nanostructures
Ehrmann, Andrea; Blachowicz, Tomasz
The dependence of the form of different mathematical depictions of fourfold magnetic anisotropies has been examined, using a simple macro-spin model. Strong differences in longitudinal and transverse hysteresis loops occur due to deviations from the usual phenomenological model, such as using absolute value functions. The proposed possible models can help understanding measurements on sophisticated magnetic nanosystems, like exchange bias layered structures employed in magnetic hard disk heads or magnetic nano-particles, and support the development of solutions with specific magnetization reversal behavior needed in novel magneto-electronic devices.
Influence of fourfold anisotropy form on hysteresis loop shape in ferromagnetic nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ehrmann, Andrea; Blachowicz, Tomasz
The dependence of the form of different mathematical depictions of fourfold magnetic anisotropies has been examined, using a simple macro-spin model. Strong differences in longitudinal and transverse hysteresis loops occur due to deviations from the usual phenomenological model, such as using absolute value functions. The proposed possible models can help understanding measurements on sophisticated magnetic nanosystems, like exchange bias layered structures employed in magnetic hard disk heads or magnetic nano-particles, and support the development of solutions with specific magnetization reversal behavior needed in novel magneto-electronic devices.
Visible light photoinactivation of bacteria by tungsten oxide nanostructures formed on a tungsten foil
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ghasempour, Fariba; Azimirad, Rouhollah; Amini, Abbas; Akhavan, Omid
Antibacterial activity of tungsten oxide nanorods/microrods were studied against Escherichia coli bacteria under visible light irradiation and in dark. A two-step annealing process at temperatures up to 390 °C and 400-800 °C was applied to synthesize the tungsten oxide nanorods/microrods on tungsten foils using KOH as a catalyst. Annealing the foils at 400 °C in the presence of catalyst resulted in formation of tungsten oxide nanorods (with diameters of 50-90 nm and crystalline phase of WO3) on surface of tungsten foils. By increasing the annealing temperature up to 800 °C, tungsten oxide microrods with K2W6O19 crystalline phase were formed on the foils. The WO3 nanorods showed a strong antibacterial property under visible light irradiation, corresponding to >92% bacterial inactivation within 24 h irradiation at room temperature, while the K2W6O19 microrods formed at 800 °C could inactivate only ∼45% of the bacteria at the same conditions.
Genetically improved monolayer-forming tobacco mosaic viruses to generate nanostructured semiconducting bio/inorganic hybrids.
Atanasova, Petia; Stitz, Nina; Sanctis, Shawn; Maurer, Johannes H M; Hoffmann, Rudolf C; Eiben, Sabine; Jeske, Holger; Schneider, Jörg J; Bill, Joachim
The genetically determined design of structured functional bio/inorganic materials was investigated by applying a convective assembly approach. Wildtype tobacco mosaic virus (wt TMV) as well as several TMV mutants were organized on substrates over macroscopic-length scales. Depending on the virus type, the self-organization behavior showed pronounced differences in the surface arrangement under the same convective assembly conditions. Additionally, under varying assembly parameters, the virus particles generated structures encompassing morphologies emerging from single micrometer long fibers aligned parallel to the triple-contact line through disordered but dense films to smooth and uniform monolayers. Monolayers with diverse packing densities were used as templates to form TMV/ZnO hybrid materials. The semiconducting properties can be directly designed and tuned by the variation of the template architecture which are reflected in the transistor performance.
Form drag in rivers due to small-scale natural topographic features: 2. Irregular sequences
Kean, J.W.; Smith, J.D.
The size, shape, and spacing of small-scale topographic features found on the boundaries of natural streams, rivers, and floodplains can be quite variable. Consequently, a procedure for determining the form drag on irregular sequences of different-sized topographic features is essential for calculating near-boundary flows and sediment transport. A method for carrying out such calculations is developed in this paper. This method builds on the work of Kean and Smith (2006), which describes the flow field for the simpler case of a regular sequence of identical topographic features. Both approaches model topographic features as two-dimensional elements with Gaussian-shaped cross sections defined in terms of three parameters. Field measurements of bank topography are used to show that (1) the magnitude of these shape parameters can vary greatly between adjacent topographic features and (2) the variability of these shape parameters follows a lognormal distribution. Simulations using an irregular set of topographic roughness elements show that the drag on an individual element is primarily controlled by the size and shape of the feature immediately upstream and that the spatial average of the boundary shear stress over a large set of randomly ordered elements is relatively insensitive to the sequence of the elements. In addition, a method to transform the topography of irregular surfaces into an equivalently rough surface of regularly spaced, identical topographic elements also is given. The methods described in this paper can be used to improve predictions of flow resistance in rivers as well as quantify bank roughness.
Intermolecular interactions and solvent diffusion in ordered nanostructures formed by self-assembly of block copolymers
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gu, Zhiyong
Hydrogels formed by Poloxamer poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide) (PEO-PPO) block copolymers find various pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. A variety of ordered structures can be exhibited by Poloxamer block copolymers in selective solvents such as water, for example, micellar cubic phase, hexagonal phase, lamellar phase, etc. We are interested in the thermodynamic and transport properties of water in such hydrogels that have an ordered (lyotropic liquid crystalline) structure. We have investigated the time evolution of water loss from Poloxamer gel films under a driving force of known water vapor pressure in the air in contact with the film. The experimental data on the drying process have been fitted to the diffusion equation for water in the film, under a boundary condition that includes the water concentration in the gel at infinite time; the water diffusion coefficient and other parameters have thus been obtained. The water chemical potential and osmotic pressure in the gel have been obtained from osmotic stress measurements. The osmotic pressure (force), together with data on the corresponding lyotropic liquid crystal spacing (distance) that we obtained from Small Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS) measurements, have been analyzed to provide information on the prevailing intermolecular (inter-assembly) forces in the gel. The forces in the gel reveal interactions that occur at two levels, that of the PEO coil and that of the PEO segment.
Organo-montmorillonite Barrier Layers Formed by Combustion: Nanostructure and Permeability
Fox, James B; Ambuken, Preejith V.; Stretz, Holly A; Meisner, Roberta Ann; Payzant, E Andrew
Self-assembly of nanoparticles into barrier layers has been the most cited theoretical explanation for the significant reduction in flammability often noted for nanocomposites formed from polymers and montmorillonite organoclays. Both mass and heat transport reductions have been credited for such improvements, and in most cases a coupled mechanism is expected. To provide validation for early models, new model barrier layers were produced from organoclays, and these barrier layers subjected to novel permeability analysis to obtain a flux. The effects of surfactant, temperature and pressure on barrier layer structure were examined. XRD versus TGA results suggest that chemical degradation of four different organoclays and physical collapse on heating are not correlated. Addition of pressure as low as 7kPa also altered the structure produced. Permeability of Ar through the ash was found to be sensitive to structural change/self assembly of high aspect ratio MMT nanoparticles. Actual fluxes ranged from 0.139 to 0.151 mol(m2.sec)-1, values which will provide useful limits in verifying models for the coupled contribution of mass and heat transfer to flammability parameters such as peak heat release rate.
Optical anisotropy of quasi-1D rare-earth silicide nanostructures on Si(001)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chandola, S.; Speiser, E.; Esser, N.; Appelfeller, S.; Franz, M.; Dähne, M.
Rare earth metals are known to interact strongly with Si(001) surfaces to form different types of silicide nanostructures. Using STM to structurally characterize Dy and Tb silicide nanostructures on vicinal Si(001), it will be shown that reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy (RAS) can be used as an optical fingerprint technique to clearly distinguish between the formation of a semiconducting two-dimensional wetting layer and the metallic one-dimensional nanowires. Moreover, the distinctive spectral features can be related to structural units of the nanostructures. RAS spectra of Tb and Dy nanostructures are found to show similar features.
The processing of polyelectrolyte-covered magnetite nanoparticles in the form of nanostructured thin films
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Marangoni, Valéria S.; Martins, Marccus Victor A.; Souza, José A.; Oliveira, Osvaldo N.; Zucolotto, Valtencir; Crespilho, Frank N.
Magnetic nanoparticles are promising for a variety of applications, such as biomedical devices, spin electronics, magnetic data storage media, to name a few. However, these goals may only be reached if stable and organized structures are fabricated. In this article, we report on a single-step synthetic route with the coprecipitation method, in which iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) were stabilized in aqueous media using the poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDAC) polyelectrolyte. The Fe3O4 NPs had a diameter of ca. 5 nm, according to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, being arranged in an inverse spinel structure typical of magnetite. An investigation with infrared spectroscopy indicated that the mechanisms of stabilization in the polymer matrix were based on the interaction between quaternary amide groups from PDAC and the nanoparticle surface. The Fe3O4-PDAC NPs exhibited considerable magnetic susceptibility, with a monotonic increase in the magnetization with decreasing temperature. These Fe3O4-PDAC NPs were immobilized in layer-by-layer (LbL) films, being alternated with layers of poly(vinylsulfonic acid) (PVS). The LbL films were much rougher than typical films made with polyelectrolytes, and Fe3O4-PDAC NPs have been responsible for the high electrocatalytic activity toward H2O2 reduction, with an overpotential shift of 0.69 V. Overall, the stability, magnetic properties and film-forming ability indicate that the Fe3O4-PDAC NPs may be used for nanoelectronics and bioelectrochemical devices requiring reversible and magnetic redox materials.
Plastic deformation drives wrinkling, saddling and wedging of annular bilayer nanostructures
Cho, Jeong-Hyun; Datta, Dibakar; Park, Si-Young; Shenoy, Vivek B.; Gracias, David H.
We describe the spontaneous wrinkling, saddling, and wedging of metallic, annular bilayer nanostructures driven by grain coalescence in one of the layers. Experiments revealed these different outcomes based on the dimensions of the annuli and we find that the essential features are captured using finite element simulations of the plastic deformation in the metal bilayers. Our results show that the dimensions and nanomechanics associated with the plastic deformation of planar nanostructures can be important in forming complex three dimensional nanostructures. PMID:21090597
Yee, Eiling; Huffstetler, Stacy; Thompson-Schill, Sharon L.
Most theories of semantic memory characterize knowledge of a given object as comprising a set of semantic features. But how does conceptual activation of these features proceed during object identification? We present the results of a pair of experiments that demonstrate that object recognition is a dynamically unfolding process in which function follows form. We used eye movements to explore whether activating one object's concept leads to the activation of others that share perceptual (shape) or abstract (function) features. Participants viewed four-picture displays and clicked on the picture corresponding to a heard word. In critical trials, the conceptual representation of one of the objects in the display was similar in shape or function (i.e., its purpose) to the heard word. Importantly, this similarity was not apparent in the visual depictions (e.g., for the target "frisbee," the shape-related object was a triangular slice of pizza – a shape that a frisbee cannot take); preferential fixations on the related object were therefore attributable to overlap of the conceptual representations on the relevant features. We observed relatedness effects for both shape and function, but shape effects occurred earlier than function effects. We discuss the implications of these findings for current accounts of the representation of semantic memory. PMID:21417543
One-step growth of Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} stem-branch featured nanostructures: Morphology control by VS and VLS mode
Wang Qiushi; Gao Wei; Shan Lianchen; Zhang Jian; Jin Yunxia; Cong Ridong; Cui Qiliang
We report here one-step synthesis of Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} nanodendrites by selectively applying a vapor-solid (VS) and vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) strategy via direct current arc discharge method. The resultant nanodendrites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. The spine-shaped nanodendrites were generated by a noncatalytic growth following a VS mode. The uniform secondary nanowire branches were epitaxial grown from two side surfaces of the nanowire stems. The pine-shaped nanodendrites were obtained through a catalytic growth in a VLS process. These branch nanowires were unsystematically grown from the nanocone-like stems. The photoluminescence spectra of the nanodendrites show a strong white light emission around 400-750 nm, suggesting their potential applications in light and electron emission devices. - Graphical abstract: Spine-shaped and pine-shaped Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} hierarchical nanostructures were synthesized by VS and VLS mode with plasma-assisted dc arc discharge method. Highlights: > Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} stem-branch featured nanostructures have been prepared. > Spine-shaped nanodendrites were generated by a noncatalytic growth following a VS mode. > Pine-shaped nanodendrites were obtained through a catalytic growth in a VLS process.
Fractal features of soil particle size distribution in newly formed wetlands in the Yellow River Delta
Yu, Junbao; Lv, Xiaofei; Bin, Ma; Wu, Huifeng; Du, Siyao; Zhou, Mo; Yang, Yanming; Han, Guangxuan
The characteristic of particle size distribution (PSD) in the newly formed wetlands in coast has seldom been studied. We applied fractal-scaling theory in assessing soil particle size distribution (PSD) features of newly formed wetlands in the Yellow River Delta (YRD), China. The singular fractal dimensions (D) values ranged from 1.82 to 1.90, the capacity dimension (D0) values ranged from 0.84 to 0.93, and the entropy dimension (D1) values ranged from 0.66 to 0.84. Constrained corresponding analysis revealed that 43.5% of the variance in soil PSD can be explained by environmental factors, including 14.7% by seasonal variation, 8.6% by soil depth, and 8.0% by vegetation type. The fractal dimensions D and D1 were sensitive with fine particles with size ranging less than 126 μm, and D0 was sensitive with coarse particles with size ranging between 126 μm to 2000 μm. Fractal analysis makes full use of soil PSD information, and offers a useful approach to quantify and assess the soil physical attributes in the newly formed wetland. PMID:26014107
Design, assembly, and activity of antisense DNA nanostructures.
Keum, Jung-Won; Ahn, Jin-Ho; Bermudez, Harry
Discrete DNA nanostructures allow simultaneous features not possible with traditional DNA forms: encapsulation of cargo, display of multiple ligands, and resistance to enzymatic digestion. These properties suggested using DNA nanostructures as a delivery platform. Here, DNA pyramids displaying antisense motifs are shown to be able to specifically degrade mRNA and inhibit protein expression in vitro, and they show improved cell uptake and gene silencing when compared to linear DNA. Furthermore, the activity of these pyramids can be regulated by the introduction of an appropriate complementary strand. These results highlight the versatility of DNA nanostructures as functional devices.
Photocurrent detection of chemically tuned hierarchical ZnO nanostructures grown on seed layers formed by atomic layer deposition
We demonstrate the morphological control method of ZnO nanostructures by atomic layer deposition (ALD) on an Al2O3/ZnO seed layer surface and the application of a hierarchical ZnO nanostructure for a photodetector. Two layers of ZnO and Al2O3 prepared using ALD with different pH values in solution coexisted on the alloy film surface, leading to deactivation of the surface hydroxyl groups. This surface complex decreased the ZnO nucleation on the seed layer surface, and thereby effectively screened the inherent surface polarity of ZnO. As a result, a 2-D zinc hydroxyl compound nanosheet was produced. With increasing ALD cycles of ZnO in the seed layer, the nanostructure morphology changes from 2-D nanosheet to 1-D nanorod due to the recovery of the natural crystallinity and polarity of ZnO. The thin ALD ZnO seed layer conformally covers the complex nanosheet structure to produce a nanorod, then a 3-D, hierarchical ZnO nanostructure was synthesized using a combined hydrothermal and ALD method. During the deposition of the ALD ZnO seed layer, the zinc hydroxyl compound nanosheets underwent a self-annealing process at 150 °C, resulting in structural transformation to pure ZnO 3-D nanosheets without collapse of the intrinsic morphology. The investigation on band electronic properties of ZnO 2-D nanosheet and 3-D hierarchical structure revealed noticeable variations depending on the richness of Zn-OH in each morphology. The improved visible and ultraviolet photocurrent characteristics of a photodetector with the active region using 3-D hierarchical structure against those of 2-D nanosheet structure were achieved. PMID:22672780
Colonization by Staphylococcus aureus of Nano-Structured Fluorinated Surfaces, Formed by Different Methods of Ion-Plasma Technology.
Elinson, V M; Didenko, L V; Shevlyagina, N V; Avtandilov, G A; Gaidarova, A Kh; Lyamin, A N
Colonization of fluorinated surfaces produced by ion-plasma technology by Staphylococcus aureus was studied by scanning electron microscopy and surface energy analysis. It was shown that the intensity of colonization was determined by the surface relief and fluorine content. Formation of nanostructured surfaces accompanied by a sharp decrease in the surface energy prevented adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus cells to the fluorine-containing surface.
Structural and optical properties of ZnMgO nanostructures formed by Mg in-diffused ZnO nanowires
Pan, C.-J.; Hsu, H.-C.; Cheng, H.-M.; Wu, C.-Y.; Hsieh, W.-F.
ZnMgO nanostructures with wurtzite phase were prepared by thermal diffusion of Mg into the ZnO nanowires. As ZnO light-emitting devices have been operated by using ZnMgO layers as energy barrier layers to confine the carriers, it is essential to realize the characterization of ZnMgO particularly. In this work, the Mg content in Zn{sub 1} {sub -x} Mg {sub x} O alloy determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and photoluminescence (PL) shows a good coincidence. The variation of lattice constant and the blueshift of near-band-edge emission indicate that Zn{sup 2+} ions are successfully substituted by Mg{sup 2+} ions in the ZnO lattice. In Raman-scattering studies, the change of E {sub 2}(high) phonon line shape in ZnO:Mg nanostructures reveals the microscopic substitutional disorder. In addition to the host phonons of ZnO, two additional bands around 383 and 510 cm{sup -1} are presumably attributed to the Mg-related vibrational modes. - Graphical abstract: We reported the synthesis of the ZnMgO nanostructures prepared by a simple vapor transport method. Magnesium-related anomalous modes are observed by Raman spectra for the first time in ZnMgO system.
Channels and valleys on Mars: Cold climate features formed as a result of a thickening cryosphere
Carr, M.H.
Large flood channels, valley networks, and a variety of features attributed to the action of ground ice indicate that Mars emerged from heavy bombardment around 3.8Gyr ago, with an inventory of water at the surface equivalent to at least a few hundred meters spread over the whole planet, as compared with 3 km for the Earth. The surface water resided primarily in a porous, kilometers thick, megaregolith created by the high impact rates. At the end of heavy bombardment a rapid decline in erosion rates by a factor of 1000 suggests a major change in the global climate. It is proposed that at this time the climate became similar to today's and that this climate has been maintained throughout the rest of Mars' history. The various drainage features represent an adjustment of the distribution of water to the surface relief inherited from the period of heavy bombardment and to a thickening of the cryosphere as the heat flow declined. The valley networks formed mostly at the end of heavy bombardment when erosion rates were high and climatic conditions permitted an active water cycle. They continued to form after heavy bombardment when the cryosphere started to form by a combination of episodic flooding and mass-wasting aided by the presence of liquid water at shallow depths. As the cryosphere thickened with declining heat flow, water could no longer easily access the surface and the rate of valley formation declined. Hydrostatic pressures built below the cryosphere. Eruptions of groundwater became more catastrophic and massive floods resulted, mainly in upper Hesperian time. Flood sources were preferentially located in low-lying, low-latitude areas where the cryosphere was thin, or near volcanoes where a thinner than typical cryosphere is also expected. Floods caused a drawdown in the global water table so that few formed in the second half of Mars' history. The floodwaters pooled in low-lying areas, mostly in the northern plains. Some of the water may still be present as
Characterization and optimization of illumination vector for contouring surface form and feature using DSPI
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Song, Chaolong; Prasad A. S., Guru; Chan, Kelvin H. K.; Murukeshan, Vadakke Matham
Surface defect or damage is one of the critical factors leading to the failure of engineering materials and structures. The methodologies for the measurement of surface shape and feature or defect have been extensively explored and developed over the past few decades, including both contact and non-contact methods. Speckle pattern interferometry, as a non-contact optical method, has been demonstrated to effectively contour the surface shape through adjusting the illumination vector. However, few studies have been made to investigate the effect of the initial position of the illumination source as well as the source translation direction. In this paper, we report to carry out a study of measuring the surface form and feature using digital speckle pattern interferometry system via a slight translation of illumination source. Through theoretically analyzing the sensitivity factor along with the experimental validation, it is shown that the contouring fringe is more sensitive to the surface height with an off-axis illumination than the paraxial illumination. It is also found that translating the source along axial and lateral direction can be both used for the surface shape re-construction.
Enhanced apatite-forming ability and cytocompatibility of porous and nanostructured TiO2/CaSiO3 coating on titanium.
Hu, Hongjie; Qiao, Yuqin; Meng, Fanhao; Liu, Xuanyong; Ding, Chuanxian
To improve the bioactivity and cytocompatibility of biomedical titanium dioxide coating, many efforts have been made to modify its surface composition and topography. Meanwhile, CaSiO(3) was commonly investigated as coating material on titanium implants for fast fixation and firm implant-bone attachment due to its demonstrated bioactivity and osteointegration. In this work, gradient TiO(2)/CaSiO(3) coating on titanium was prepared by a two-step procedure, in which porous and nanostructured TiO(2) coating on titanium was prepared by plasma electrolytic oxidation in advance, and then needle and flake-like CaSiO(3) nanocrystals were deposited on the TiO(2) coating surface by electron beam evaporation. In view of the potential clinical applications, apatite-forming ability of the TiO(2)/CaSiO(3) coating was evaluated by simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion tests, and MG63 cells were cultured on the surface of the coating to investigate its cytocompatibility. The results show that deposition of CaSiO(3) significantly enhanced the apatite-forming ability of nanostructured TiO(2) coating in SBF. Meanwhile, the MG63 cells on TiO(2)/CaSiO(3) coating show higher proliferation rate and vitality than that on TiO(2) coating. In conclusion, the porous and nanostructured TiO(2)/CaSiO(3) coating on titanium substrate with good apatite-forming ability and cytocompatibility is a potential candidate for bone tissue engineering and implant coating.
Robust broadband beam-forming based on the feature of underwater target radiated noise
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, Xin-hua; Liu, Chao; Yu, Hua-bing; Zheng, En-ming; Sun, Chang-yu
To the problem of the unknown underwater target detection, according to the feature that the underwater target radiated noise contains the stable line spectrum, a weighted method based on the main-to-side lobe ratio (MSLR) is proposed for broadband beam-forming. This weighted method can be implemented by using the following steps. Firstly, optimize the spatial spectrum of each frequency unit by the second-order cone programming (SOCP), and obtain the optimized spatial spectrum with lower side lobe. Secondly, construct weighting factors based on the MSLR of the optimized spatial spectrums to from weight factors. Lastly, cumulate the spatial spectrum of each frequency unit via the weight statistical method of this paper. This method can restrain the disturbance of background noise, enhance the output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and overcome the difficulty of traditional four-dimensional display. The theoretical analysis and simulation results both verify that this method can well enhance the spatial spectrum of line spectrum units, restrain the spatial spectrum of background noise units, and improve the performance of the broadband beam-forming.
Fresh shallow valleys in the Martian midlatitudes as features formed by meltwater flow beneath ice
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hobley, Daniel E. J.; Howard, Alan D.; Moore, Jeffrey M.
Significant numbers of valleys have been identified in the Martian midlatitudes (30-60°N/S), spatially associated with extant or recent ice accumulations. Many of these valleys date to the Amazonian, but their formation during these cold, dry epochs is problematic. In this study, we look in detail at the form, distribution, and quantitative geomorphology of two suites of these valleys and their associated landforms in order to better constrain the processes of their formation. Since the valleys themselves are so young and thus well preserved, uniquely, we can constrain valley widths and courses and link these to the topography from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter and High-Resolution Stereo Camera data. We show that the valleys are both qualitatively and quantitatively very similar, despite their being >5000 km apart in different hemispheres and around 7 km apart in elevation. Buffered crater counting indicates that the ages of these networks are statistically identical, probably forming during the Late Amazonian, ~100 Ma. In both localities, at least tens of valleys cross local drainage divides, apparently flowing uphill. We interpret these uphill reaches to be characteristic of flow occurring beneath a now absent, relatively thin (order 101-102 m), regionally extensive ice cover. Ridges and mounds occasionally found at the foot of these valley systems are analogous to eskers and aufeis-like refreezing features. On the basis of their interaction with these aufeis-like mounds, we suggest that this suite of landforms may have formed in a single, short episode (perhaps order of days), probably forced by global climate change.
Nanostructured protic ionic liquids retain nanoscale features in aqueous solution while precursor Brønsted acids and bases exhibit different behavior.
Greaves, Tamar L; Kennedy, Danielle F; Weerawardena, Asoka; Tse, Nicholas M K; Kirby, Nigel; Drummond, Calum J
Small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SWAXS) has been used to investigate the effect that water has on the nanoscale structure of protic ionic liquids (PILs) along with their precursor Brønsted acids and bases. The series of PILs consisted of primary, secondary, and tertiary alkylammonium cations in conjunction with formate, nitrate, or glycolate anions. Significant differences were observed for these systems. The nanoscale aggregates present in neat protic ionic liquids were shown to be stable in size on dilution to high concentrations of water, indicating that the water is localized in the ionic region and has little effect on the nonpolar domains. The Brønsted acid-water solutions did not display nanostructure at any water concentration. Primary amine Brønsted bases formed aggregates in water, which generally displayed characteristics of poorly structured microemulsions or a form of bicontinuous phase. Exceptions were butyl- and pentylamine with high water concentrations, for which the SWAXS patterns fitted well to the Teubner-Strey model for microemulsions. Brønsted base amines containing multiple alkyl chains or hydroxyl groups did not display nanostructure at any water concentration. IR spectroscopy was used to investigate the nature of water in the various solutions. For low PIL concentrations, the water was predominately present as bulk water for PIL molar fractions less than 0.4-0.5. At high PIL concentrations, in addition to the bulk water, there was a significant proportion of perturbed water, which is water influenced in some way by the cations and anions. The molecular state of the water in the studied amines was predominately present as bulk water, with smaller contributions from perturbed water than was seen in the PILs.
Specific features of a rare form of disseminated necrobiosis lipoidica granuloma annulare type: a case report.
Ianoşi, Simona Laura; Tutunaru, Cristina; Georgescu, Claudia Valentina; Ianoşi, Nicolae Gabriel; Georgescu, Diana Monica; Dănoiu, Suzana; Niculescu, Elena Carmen; Neagoe, Carmen Daniela
Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) is a rare dermatosis that has been shown to precede the onset of diabetes mellitus in 15% of patients. It is more common in women; the average age of the onset is 30 years. Skin lesions of classic NL begin as a small papule, typically on the bilateral pretibial area. Progressively, these papules become indurated plaques with an atrophic, yellow center and multiple telangiectatic vessels, and brown-violaceous borders. We present the case of a 57-year-old male with type II diabetes mellitus from 2004, class II obesity, hepatosteatosis and metabolic disturbances who presents a disseminated eruption from 2010, formed by indurated plaques with flattened centers and a tendency of atrophy and raised, sharply demarcated, red-violaceous borders, having a variable diameter between 1.5 and 5 cm. The laboratory findings revealed elevated glucose levels between 250 and 300 mg%, high levels of transaminases and lipids. Diagnosis of disseminated necrobiosis lipoidica granuloma annulare-type was histopathologically confirmed. For the treatment, we have used topical corticosteroids and Tacrolimus 0.1% and systemic vasodilators. We consider this rare case interesting because has some peculiarities, as: disseminated lesions extend over the characteristic areas for necrobiosis lipoidica, the characteristic features of lesions similar to granuloma annulare, gender (male) and the onset of the disease over fifth decade.
Fast classification of meat spoilage markers using nanostructured ZnO thin films and unsupervised feature learning.
Längkvist, Martin; Coradeschi, Silvia; Loutfi, Amy; Rayappan, John Bosco Balaguru
This paper investigates a rapid and accurate detection system for spoilage in meat. We use unsupervised feature learning techniques (stacked restricted Boltzmann machines and auto-encoders) that consider only the transient response from undoped zinc oxide, manganese-doped zinc oxide, and fluorine-doped zinc oxide in order to classify three categories: the type of thin film that is used, the type of gas, and the approximate ppm-level of the gas. These models mainly offer the advantage that features are learned from data instead of being hand-designed. We compare our results to a feature-based approach using samples with various ppm level of ethanol and trimethylamine (TMA) that are good markers for meat spoilage. The result is that deep networks give a better and faster classification than the feature-based approach, and we thus conclude that the fine-tuning of our deep models are more efficient for this kind of multi-label classification task.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fu, Lan; Tan, H. Hoe; Jagadish, Chennupati
Energy and the environment are two of the most important global issues that we currently face. The development of clean and sustainable energy resources is essential to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet our ever-increasing demand for energy. Over the last decade photovoltaics, as one of the leading technologies to meet these challenges, has seen a continuous increase in research, development and investment. Meanwhile, nanotechnology, which is considered to be the technology of the future, is gradually revolutionizing our everyday life through adaptation and incorporation into many traditional technologies, particularly energy-related technologies, such as photovoltaics. While the record for the highest efficiency is firmly held by multijunction III-V solar cells, there has never been a shortage of new research effort put into improving the efficiencies of all types of solar cells and making them more cost effective. In particular, there have been extensive and exciting developments in employing nanostructures; features with different low dimensionalities, such as quantum wells, nanowires, nanotubes, nanoparticles and quantum dots, have been incorporated into existing photovoltaic technologies to enhance their performance and/or reduce their cost. Investigations into light trapping using plasmonic nanostructures to effectively increase light absorption in various solar cells are also being rigorously pursued. In addition, nanotechnology provides researchers with great opportunities to explore the new ideas and physics offered by nanostructures to implement advanced solar cell concepts such as hot carrier, multi-exciton and intermediate band solar cells. This special issue of Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics contains selected papers on nanostructured photovoltaics written by researchers in their respective fields of expertise. These papers capture the current excitement, as well as addressing some open questions in the field, covering topics including the
Comparative skeletal muscle histopathologic and ultrastructural features in two forms of polysaccharide storage myopathy in horses.
McCue, M E; Armién, A G; Lucio, M; Mickelson, J R; Valberg, S J
Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) has been found in more than 35 different horse breeds through identification of abnormal storage of polysaccharide in muscle biopsies. A dominant mutation in the glycogen synthase 1 gene (GYS1) accounts for a substantial proportion of PSSM cases in at least 17 breeds, including Quarter Horses, but some horses diagnosed with PSSM by muscle histopathologic analysis are negative for the mutation. We hypothesized that a second distinct form of glycogen storage disease exists in GYS1-negative horses with PSSM. The objectives of this study were to compare the histopathologic features, ultrastructure of polysaccharide, signalment, history, and presenting complaints of GYS1-negative Quarter Horses and related breeds with PSSM to those of GYS1-positive horses with PSSM. The total histopathologic score in frozen sections of skeletal muscle stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and amylase-PAS stains from 53 GYS1-negative horses did not differ from that of 52 GYS1-positive horses. Abnormal polysaccharide was fine granular or homogenous in appearance (49/53; 92%), often amylase-sensitive (28/53; 53%), more commonly located under the sarcolemma, and consisting of beta glycogen particles in GYS1-negative horses. However, in GYS1-positive horses, abnormal polysaccharide was usually coarse granular (50/52; 96%), amylase-resistant (51/52; 98%), more commonly cytoplasmic, and consisting of beta glycogen particles or, in some myofibers, filamentous material surrounded by beta glycogen particles. Retrospective analysis found that GYS1-negative horses (n = 43) were younger at presentation (4.9 +/- 0.6 years vs. 6.7 +/- 0.3 years for GYS1-positive horses) and were more likely to be intact males than GYS1-positive horses (n = 160). We concluded that 2 forms of PSSM exist and often have distinctive abnormal polysaccharide. However, because evaluation of the histologic appearance of polysaccharide can be subjective and
Function Follows Form: Activation of Shape and Function Features during Object Identification
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Yee, Eiling; Huffstetler, Stacy; Thompson-Schill, Sharon L.
Most theories of semantic memory characterize knowledge of a given object as comprising a set of semantic features. But how does conceptual activation of these features proceed during object identification? We present the results of a pair of experiments that demonstrate that object recognition is a dynamically unfolding process in which function…
Building a Relationship between Elements of Product Form Features and Vocabulary Assessment Models
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lo, Chi-Hung
Based on the characteristic feature parameterization and the superiority evaluation method (SEM) in extension engineering, a product-shape design method was proposed in this study. The first step of this method is to decompose the basic feature components of a product. After that, the morphological chart method is used to segregate the ideas so as…
Methods for the Precise Locating and Forming of Arrays of Curved Features into a Workpiece
Gill, David Dennis; Keeler, Gordon A.; Serkland, Darwin K.; Mukherjee, Sayan D.
Methods for manufacturing high precision arrays of curved features (e.g. lenses) in the surface of a workpiece are described utilizing orthogonal sets of inter-fitting locating grooves to mate a workpiece to a workpiece holder mounted to the spindle face of a rotating machine tool. The matching inter-fitting groove sets in the workpiece and the chuck allow precisely and non-kinematically indexing the workpiece to locations defined in two orthogonal directions perpendicular to the turning axis of the machine tool. At each location on the workpiece a curved feature can then be on-center machined to create arrays of curved features on the workpiece. The averaging effect of the corresponding sets of inter-fitting grooves provide for precise repeatability in determining, the relative locations of the centers of each of the curved features in an array of curved features.
Can two dots form a Gestalt? Measuring emergent features with the capacity coefficient.
Hawkins, Robert X D; Houpt, Joseph W; Eidels, Ami; Townsend, James T
While there is widespread agreement among vision researchers on the importance of some local aspects of visual stimuli, such as hue and intensity, there is no general consensus on a full set of basic sources of information used in perceptual tasks or how they are processed. Gestalt theories place particular value on emergent features, which are based on the higher-order relationships among elements of a stimulus rather than local properties. Thus, arbitrating between different accounts of features is an important step in arbitrating between local and Gestalt theories of perception in general. In this paper, we present the capacity coefficient from Systems Factorial Technology (SFT) as a quantitative approach for formalizing and rigorously testing predictions made by local and Gestalt theories of features. As a simple, easily controlled domain for testing this approach, we focus on the local feature of location and the emergent features of Orientation and Proximity in a pair of dots. We introduce a redundant-target change detection task to compare our capacity measure on (1) trials where the configuration of the dots changed along with their location against (2) trials where the amount of local location change was exactly the same, but there was no change in the configuration. Our results, in conjunction with our modeling tools, favor the Gestalt account of emergent features. We conclude by suggesting several candidate information-processing models that incorporate emergent features, which follow from our approach.
The influence of nanostructured features on bacterial adhesion and bone cell functions on severely shot peened 316L stainless steel.
Bagherifard, Sara; Hickey, Daniel J; de Luca, Alba C; Malheiro, Vera N; Markaki, Athina E; Guagliano, Mario; Webster, Thomas J
Substrate grain structure and topography play major roles in mediating cell and bacteria activities. Severe plastic deformation techniques, known as efficient metal-forming and grain refining processes, provide the treated material with novel mechanical properties and can be adopted to modify nanoscale surface characteristics, possibly affecting interactions with the biological environment. This in vitro study evaluates the capability of severe shot peening, based on severe plastic deformation, to modulate the interactions of nanocrystallized metallic biomaterials with cells and bacteria. The treated 316L stainless steel surfaces were first investigated in terms of surface topography, grain size, hardness, wettability and residual stresses. The effects of the induced surface modifications were then separately studied in terms of cell morphology, adhesion and proliferation of primary human osteoblasts (bone forming cells) as well as the adhesion of multiple bacteria strains, specifically Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli. The results indicated a significant enhancement in surface work hardening and compressive residual stresses, maintenance of osteoblast adhesion and proliferation as well as a remarkable decrease in the adhesion and growth of gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus and S. epidermidis) compared to non-treated and conventionally shot peened samples. Impressively, the decrease in bacteria adhesion and growth was achieved without the use of antibiotics, for which bacteria can develop a resistance towards anyway. By slightly grinding the surface of severe shot peened samples to remove differences in nanoscale surface roughness, the effects of varying substrate grain size were separated from those of varying surface roughness. The expression of vinculin focal adhesions from osteoblasts was found to be singularly and inversely related to grain size, whereas the attachment of gram
Transcontinental arch - a pattern formed by rejuvenation of local features across central North America
Carlson, M.P.
The transcontinental Arch has been described by many authors as a feature having significant tectonic influence during the Phanerozoic, although the location, magnitude, and even the timing defining the arch vary greatly among authors. The general trend usually suggested for the Transcontinental Arch is northeast-southwest across the western midcontinent of North America. A series of isopachous and paleogeologic maps was compiled for this study that defines a number of smaller tectonic features - commonly trending northwest-southeast. Six persistent highs and six persistent lows (or sags) are defined that are largely basement controlled and were rejuvenated at various times during the Phanerozoic. These smaller northwest-trending features, when taken collectively and enhanced by the relative downwarping of the adjacent Williston and Anadarko basins, create a platform-like feature - the Transcontinental Arch of the literature. The concept of a Transcontinental Arch is an important reference trend in the geologic history of North America. In both regional and local studies, however, the smaller-scale, transverse features may have had significant control on both tectonic patterns and depositional influence.
Classifying Glioblastoma Multiforme Follow-Up Progressive vs. Responsive Forms Using Multi-Parametric MRI Features
Ion-Mărgineanu, Adrian; Van Cauter, Sofie; Sima, Diana M.; Maes, Frederik; Sunaert, Stefan; Himmelreich, Uwe; Van Huffel, Sabine
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is discriminating between tumor progression and response to treatment based on follow-up multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data retrieved from glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. Materials and Methods: Multi-parametric MRI data consisting of conventional MRI (cMRI) and advanced MRI [i.e., perfusion weighted MRI (PWI) and diffusion kurtosis MRI (DKI)] were acquired from 29 GBM patients treated with adjuvant therapy after surgery. We propose an automatic pipeline for processing advanced MRI data and extracting intensity-based histogram features and 3-D texture features using manually and semi-manually delineated regions of interest (ROIs). Classifiers are trained using a leave-one-patient-out cross validation scheme on complete MRI data. Balanced accuracy rate (BAR)–values are computed and compared between different ROIs, MR modalities, and classifiers, using non-parametric multiple comparison tests. Results: Maximum BAR–values using manual delineations are 0.956, 0.85, 0.879, and 0.932, for cMRI, PWI, DKI, and all three MRI modalities combined, respectively. Maximum BAR–values using semi-manual delineations are 0.932, 0.894, 0.885, and 0.947, for cMRI, PWI, DKI, and all three MR modalities combined, respectively. After statistical testing using Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Dunn-Šidák analysis we conclude that training a RUSBoost classifier on features extracted using semi-manual delineations on cMRI or on all MRI modalities combined performs best. Conclusions: We present two main conclusions: (1) using T1 post-contrast (T1pc) features extracted from manual total delineations, AdaBoost achieves the highest BAR–value, 0.956; (2) using T1pc-average, T1pc-90th percentile, and Cerebral Blood Volume (CBV) 90th percentile extracted from semi-manually delineated contrast enhancing ROIs, SVM-rbf, and RUSBoost achieve BAR–values of 0.947 and 0.932, respectively. Our findings show that AdaBoost, SVM-rbf, and
Haynes, Korey; Cannon, John M.; Skillman, Evan D.; Gehrz, Robert; Jackson, Dale C. E-mail: email@example.com E-mail: email@example.com
Low-resolution, mid-infrared Spitzer/IRS spectral maps are presented for three nearby, low-metallicity dwarf galaxies (NGC 55, NGC 3109, and IC 5152) for the purpose of examining the spatial distribution and variation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emission. The sample straddles a metallicity of 12 + log(O/H) {approx} 8, a transition point below which PAH intensity empirically drops and the character of the interstellar medium changes. We derive quantitative radiances of PAH features and atomic lines on both global and spatially resolved scales. The Spitzer spectra, combined with extensive ancillary data from the UV through the mid-infrared, allow us to examine changes in the physical environments and in PAH feature radiances down to a physical scale of {approx}50 pc. We discuss correlations between various PAH emission feature and atomic line radiances. The (6.2 {mu}m)/(11.3 {mu}m), (7.7 {mu}m)/(11.3 {mu}m), (8.6 {mu}m)/(11.3 {mu}m), (7.7 {mu}m)/(6.2 {mu}m), and (8.6 {mu}m)/(6.2 {mu}m) PAH radiance ratios are found to be independent of position across all three galaxies, although the ratios do vary from galaxy to galaxy. As seen in other galaxies, we find no variation in the grain size distribution as a function of local radiation field strength. Absolute PAH feature intensities as measured by a ratio of PAH/(24 {mu}m) radiances are seen to vary both positionally within a given galaxy and from one galaxy to another when integrated over the full observed extent of each system. We examine direct comparisons of CC mode PAH ratios (7.7 {mu}m)/(6.2 {mu}m) and (8.6 {mu}m)/(6.2 {mu}m) to the mixed (CC/CH) mode PAH ratio (7.7 {mu}m)/(11.3 {mu}m). We find little variation in either mode and no difference in trends between modes. While the local conditions change markedly over the observed regions of these galaxies, the properties of PAH emission show a remarkable degree of uniformity.
Tuning of structural, light emission and wetting properties of nanostructured copper oxide-porous silicon matrix formed on electrochemically etched copper-coated silicon substrates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Naddaf, M.
Matrices of copper oxide-porous silicon nanostructures have been formed by electrochemical etching of copper-coated silicon surfaces in HF-based solution at different etching times (5-15 min). Micro-Raman, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results show that the nature of copper oxide in the matrix changes from single-phase copper (I) oxide (Cu2O) to single-phase copper (II) oxide (CuO) on increasing the etching time. This is accompanied with important variation in the content of carbon, carbon hydrides, carbonyl compounds and silicon oxide in the matrix. The matrix formed at the low etching time (5 min) exhibits a single broad "blue" room-temperature photoluminescence (PL) band. On increasing the etching time, the intensity of this band decreases and a much stronger "red" PL band emerges in the PL spectra. The relative intensity of this band with respect to the "blue" band significantly increases on increasing the etching time. The "blue" and "red" PL bands are attributed to Cu2O and porous silicon of the matrix, respectively. In addition, the water contact angle measurements reveal that the hydrophobicity of the matrix surface can be tuned from hydrophobic to superhydrophobic state by controlling the etching time.
Investigation of influence of friction stir welding regimes on the features of mass transfer and temperature distribution in forming welds
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Astafurov, S. V.; Shilko, E. V.; Kolubaev, E. A.; Psakhie, S. G.
Computer simulation by the movable cellular automaton method was performed to study the influence of friction stir welding regimes on the features of intensive mass transfer and temperature distribution in forming welded joints. The calculation results showed that there is a range of optimal values of the ratio of the angular velocity to the welding speed which provides sufficient mass transfer to form a welded joint with a minimum volume content of defects. The use of the optimal FSW regimes allows to obtain joints without significant overheating of the welded materials.
Structure and Optical Features of Micro/Nanosized Carbon Forms Prepared by Electrochemical Exfoliation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nedilko, Sergii G.; Revo, Sergiy; Chornii, Vitalii; Scherbatskyi, Vasyl; Ivanenko, Kateryna; Nedielko, Maksym; Sementsov, Yurii; Skoryk, Mykola; Nikolenko, Andrii; Strelchuk, Victor
Micro/nanosized carbon materials were prepared by electrochemical exfoliation method in the forms of the colloids and thin films. Scanning electronic microscopy, optical and luminescent microscopy, and Raman scattering and luminescent spectroscopy were applied for characterization of materials. The wide photoluminescence band in the visible spectral region was observed for each of the samples. The shape of the photoluminescence band depends on excitation wavelength and on the size of the particles. At least two components with maxima at 580 and 710 nm can be distinguished in the photoluminescence spectra. The relations between the photoluminescence properties and morphology of the samples have been described and discussed.
Special features in the electroreduction of oxidic molybdenum(VI) forms in tungstate melt
Shapoval, V.I.; Baraboshkin, A.N.; Kushkhov, K.B.; Malyshev, V.V.
The electrochemical behavior of oxidic molybdenum in tungstate melt was studied under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions. Chronovoltammetry and transient polarization was used. The current-voltage curves were recorded with a pulse potentiostat and the experiments were performed in a quartz reactor with platinum and molybdenum electrodes and a platinum crucible served as the melt container and anode. The end product of the oxidic molybdenum forms were shown to depend on the acid-base properties of the melt which allows for choosing the properties and controlling the electrode process.
Generation Mechanism and Propagation Features of the Ionospheric Weather Forming ULF Electromagnetic Wave Structures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Aburjania, G. D.; Chargazia, Kh. Z.; Khantadze, A. G.; Lominadze, J. G.
Results of theoretical investigation of the dynamics of generation and propagation of planetary (with wavelengths 103 km and more) weather-forming Ultra-Low Frequency (ULF) electromagnetic wave structures in the dissipative ionosphere are given in this paper. It is established that the global factor, acting permanently in the ionosphere spatial inhomogeneity and curvature of the geomagnetic field and inhomogeneity of angular velocity of the Earth's rotation generates the fast and slow planetary ULF electromagnetic waves. The waves propagate along the parallels to the east as well as to the west. In the E-region the fast waves have phase velocities of (2-20) km/s-1 and frequencies of (10^-1-10^-4) Hz; the slow waves propagate with local wind velocities and have frequencies (10^-4-10^-6) Hz. In the F-region the fast ULF electromagnetic waves propagate with phase velocities of tens-hundreds km/s-1 and their frequencies are in the range of (10-10^-3) Hz. The large-scale waves are weakly damped. The waves generate the geomagnetic field perturbations from several tens to several hundreds nT and more. It is established that planetary ULF electromagnetic waves, at their interaction with the local shear winds, can self-localize in the form of nonlinear solitary vortices, moving along the latitude circles westward as well as eastward.
Form features provide a cue to the angular velocity of rotating objects
Blair, Christopher David; Goold, Jessica; Killebrew, Kyle; Caplovitz, Gideon Paul
As an object rotates, each location on the object moves with an instantaneous linear velocity dependent upon its distance from the center of rotation, while the object as a whole rotates with a fixed angular velocity. Does the perceived rotational speed of an object correspond to its angular velocity, linear velocities, or some combination of the two? We had observers perform relative speed judgments of different sized objects, as changing the size of an object changes the linear velocity of each location on the object's surface, while maintaining the object's angular velocity. We found that the larger a given object is, the faster it is perceived to rotate. However, the observed relationships between size and perceived speed cannot be accounted for simply by size-related changes in linear velocity. Further, the degree to which size influences perceived rotational speed depends on the shape of the object. Specifically, perceived rotational speeds of objects with corners or regions of high contour curvature were less affected by size. The results suggest distinct contour features, such as corners or regions of high or discontinuous contour curvature, provide cues to the angular velocity of a rotating object. PMID:23750970
Thermodynamic Features of Structural Motifs Formed by β-L-RNA
Szabat, Marta; Gudanis, Dorota; Kotkowiak, Weronika; Gdaniec, Zofia; Kierzek, Ryszard; Pasternak, Anna
This is the first report to provide comprehensive thermodynamic and structural data concerning duplex, hairpin, quadruplex and i-motif structures in β-L-RNA series. Herein we confirm that, within the limits of experimental error, the thermodynamic stability of enantiomeric structural motifs is the same as that of naturally occurring D-RNA counterparts. In addition, formation of D-RNA/L-RNA heterochiral duplexes is also observed; however, their thermodynamic stability is significantly reduced in reference to homochiral D-RNA duplexes. The presence of three locked nucleic acid (LNA) residues within the D-RNA strand diminishes the negative effect of the enantiomeric, complementary L-RNA strand in the formation of heterochiral RNA duplexes. Similar behavior is also observed for heterochiral LNA-2′-O-methyl-D-RNA/L-RNA duplexes. The formation of heterochiral duplexes was confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The CD curves of homochiral L-RNA structural motifs are always reversed, whereas CD curves of heterochiral duplexes present individual features dependent on the composition of chiral strands. PMID:26908023
Form features provide a cue to the angular velocity of rotating objects.
Blair, Christopher David; Goold, Jessica; Killebrew, Kyle; Caplovitz, Gideon Paul
As an object rotates, each location on the object moves with an instantaneous linear velocity, dependent upon its distance from the center of rotation, whereas the object as a whole rotates with a fixed angular velocity. Does the perceived rotational speed of an object correspond to its angular velocity, linear velocities, or some combination of the two? We had observers perform relative speed judgments of different-sized objects, as changing the size of an object changes the linear velocity of each location on the object's surface, while maintaining the object's angular velocity. We found that the larger a given object is, the faster it is perceived to rotate. However, the observed relationships between size and perceived speed cannot be accounted for simply by size-related changes in linear velocity. Further, the degree to which size influences perceived rotational speed depends on the shape of the object. Specifically, perceived rotational speeds of objects with corners or regions of high-contour curvature were less affected by size. The results suggest distinct contour features, such as corners or regions of high or discontinuous contour curvature, provide cues to the angular velocity of a rotating object.
Extrastriate Visual Areas Integrate Form Features over Space and Time to Construct Representations of Stationary and Rigidly Rotating Objects.
McCarthy, J Daniel; Kohler, Peter J; Tse, Peter U; Caplovitz, Gideon Paul
When an object moves behind a bush, for example, its visible fragments are revealed at different times and locations across the visual field. Nonetheless, a whole moving object is perceived. Unlike traditional modal and amodal completion mechanisms known to support spatial form integration when all parts of a stimulus are simultaneously visible, relatively little is known about the neural substrates of the spatiotemporal form integration (STFI) processes involved in generating coherent object representations from a succession visible fragments. We used fMRI to identify brain regions involved in two mechanisms supporting the representation of stationary and rigidly rotating objects whose form features are shown in succession: STFI and position updating. STFI allows past and present form cues to be integrated over space and time into a coherent object even when the object is not visible in any given frame. STFI can occur whether or not the object is moving. Position updating allows us to perceive a moving object, whether rigidly rotating or translating, even when its form features are revealed at different times and locations in space. Our results suggest that STFI is mediated by visual regions beyond V1 and V2. Moreover, although widespread cortical activation has been observed for other motion percepts derived solely from form-based analyses [Tse, P. U. Neural correlates of transformational apparent motion. Neuroimage, 31, 766-773, 2006; Krekelberg, B., Vatakis, A., & Kourtzi, Z. Implied motion from form in the human visual cortex. Journal of Neurophysiology, 94, 4373-4386, 2005], increased responses for the position updating that lead to rigidly rotating object representations were only observed in visual areas KO and possibly hMT+, indicating that this is a distinct and highly specialized type of processing.
Extrastriate visual areas integrate form features over space and time to construct representations of stationary and rigidly rotating objects
McCarthy, J. Daniel; Kohler, Peter J.; Tse, Peter U.; Caplovitz, Gideon Paul
When an object moves behind a bush, for example, its visible fragments are revealed at different times and locations across the visual field. Nonetheless, a whole moving object is perceived. Unlike traditional modal and amodal completion mechanisms known to support spatial form integration when all parts of a stimulus are simultaneously visible, relatively little is known about the neural substrates of the spatiotemporal form integration processes involved in generating coherent object representations from a succession visible fragments. We use fMRI to identify brain regions involved in two mechanisms supporting the representation of stationary and rigidly rotating objects whose form features are shown in succession: Spatiotemporal Form Integration (STFI) and Position Updating. STFI allows past and present form cues to be integrated over space and time into a coherent object even when the object is not visible in any given frame. STFI can occur whether or not the object is moving. Position updating allows us to perceive a moving object, whether rigidly rotating or translating, even when its form features are revealed at different times and locations in space. Our results suggest that STFI is mediated by visual regions beyond V1 and V2. Moreover, while widespread cortical activation has been observed for other motion percepts derived solely from form-based analyses (Krekelberg, Vatakis, & Kourtzi, 2005; Tse, 2006), increased responses for the position updating that leads to rigidly rotating object representations were only observed in visual areas KO and possibly hMT+, indicating that this is a distinct and highly specialized type of processing. PMID:26226075
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Whitby, R. L. D.; Hsu, W. K.; Lee, T. H.; Boothroyd, C. B.; Kroto, H. W.; Walton, D. R. M.
A range of elegant tubular and conical nanostructures has been created by template growth of (WS 2) n layers on the surfaces of single-walled carbon nanotube bundles. The structures exhibit remarkably perfect straight segments together with interesting complexities at the intersections, which are discussed here in detail in order to enhance understanding of the structural features governing tube growth.
Formation of different gold nanostructures by silk nanofibrils.
Fang, Guangqiang; Yang, Yuhong; Yao, Jinrong; Shao, Zhengzhong; Chen, Xin
Metal nanostructures that have unique size- and shape-dependent electronic, optical and chemical properties gain more and more attention in modern science and technology. In this article, we show the possibility that we are able to obtain different gold nanostructures simply with the help of silk nanofibrils. We demonstrate that only by varying the pH of the reaction solution, we get gold nanoparticles, nano-icosahedrons, nanocubes, and even microplates. Particularly, we develop a practical method for the preparation of gold microplates in acid condition in the presence of silk nanofibrils, which is impossible by using other forms of silk protein. We attribute the role of silk nanofibrils in the formation of gold nanostructure to their reduction ability from several specific amino acid residues, and the suitable structural anisotropic features to sustain the crystal growth after the reduction process. Although the main purpose of this article is to demonstrate that silk nanofibrils are able to mediate the formation of different gold nanostructure, we show the potential applications of these resulting gold nanostructures, such as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and photothermal transformation effect, as same as those produced by other methods. In conclusion, we present in this communication a facile and green synthesis route to prepare various gold nanostructures with silk nanofibrils by simply varying pH in the reaction system, which has remarkable advantages in future biomedical applications.
Nanostructured materials in electroanalysis of pharmaceuticals.
Rahi, A; Karimian, K; Heli, H
Basic strategies and recent developments for the enhancement of the sensory performance of nanostructures in the electroanalysis of pharmaceuticals are reviewed. A discussion of the properties of nanostructures and their application as modified electrodes for drug assays is presented. The electrocatalytic effect of nanostructured materials and their application in determining low levels of drugs in pharmaceutical forms and biofluids are discussed.
Method of fabrication of anchored nanostructure materials
Seals, Roland D; Menchhofer, Paul A; Howe, Jane Y; Wang, Wei
Methods for fabricating anchored nanostructure materials are described. The methods include heating a nano-catalyst under a protective atmosphere to a temperature ranging from about 450.degree. C. to about 1500.degree. C. and contacting the heated nano-catalysts with an organic vapor to affix carbon nanostructures to the nano-catalysts and form the anchored nanostructure material.
Structure and spectral features of H+(H2O)7: Eigen versus Zundel forms
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Shin, Ilgyou; Park, Mina; Min, Seung Kyu; Lee, Eun Cheol; Suh, Seung Bum; Kim, Kwang S.
The two dimensional (2D) to three dimensional (3D) transition for the protonated water cluster has been controversial, in particular, for H+(H2O)7. For H+(H2O)7 the 3D structure is predicted to be lower in energy than the 2D structure at most levels of theory without zero-point energy (ZPE) correction. On the other hand, with ZPE correction it is predicted to be either 2D or 3D depending on the calculational levels. Although the ZPE correction favors the 3D structure at the level of coupled cluster theory with singles, doubles, and perturbative triples excitations [CCSD(T)] using the aug-cc-pVDZ basis set, the result based on the anharmonic zero-point vibrational energy correction favors the 2D structure. Therefore, the authors investigated the energies based on the complete basis set limit scheme (which we devised in an unbiased way) at the resolution of the identity approximation Møller-Plesset second order perturbation theory and CCSD(T) levels, and found that the 2D structure has the lowest energy for H+(H2O)7 [though nearly isoenergetic to the 3D structure for D+(D2O)7]. This structure has the Zundel-type configuration, but it shows the quantum probabilistic distribution including some of the Eigen-type configuration. The vibrational spectra of MP2/aug-cc-pVDZ calculations and Car-Parrinello molecular dynamics simulations, taking into account the thermal and dynamic effects, show that the 2D Zundel-type form is in good agreement with experiments.
Nanostructured metal foams: synthesis and applications
Luther, Erik P; Tappan, Bryce; Mueller, Alex; Mihaila, Bogdan; Volz, Heather; Cardenas, Andreas; Papin, Pallas; Veauthier, Jackie; Stan, Marius
Fabrication of monolithic metallic nanoporous materials is difficult using conventional methodology. Here they report a relatively simple method of synthesizing monolithic, ultralow density, nanostructured metal foams utilizing self-propagating combustion synthesis of novel metal complexes containing high nitrogen energetic ligands. Nanostructured metal foams are formed in a post flame-front dynamic assembly with densities as low as 0.011 g/cc and surface areas as high as 270 m{sup 2}/g. They have produced metal foams via this method of titanium, iron, cobalt, nickel, zirconium, copper, palladium, silver, hafnium, platinum and gold. Microstructural features vary as a function of composition and process parameters. Applications for the metal foams are discussed including hydrogen absorption in palladium foams. A model for the sorption kinetics of hydrogen in the foams is presented.
Controlled placement and orientation of nanostructures
Zettl, Alex K; Yuzvinsky, Thomas D; Fennimore, Adam M
A method for controlled deposition and orientation of molecular sized nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) on substrates is disclosed. The method comprised: forming a thin layer of polymer coating on a substrate; exposing a selected portion of the thin layer of polymer to alter a selected portion of the thin layer of polymer; forming a suspension of nanostructures in a solvent, wherein the solvent suspends the nanostructures and activates the nanostructures in the solvent for deposition; and flowing a suspension of nanostructures across the layer of polymer in a flow direction; thereby: depositing a nanostructure in the suspension of nanostructures only to the selected portion of the thin layer of polymer coating on the substrate to form a deposited nanostructure oriented in the flow direction. By selectively employing portions of the method above, complex NEMS may be built of simpler NEMSs components.
Bottom-up multiferroic nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ren, Shenqiang
Multiferroic and especially magnetoelectric (ME) nanocomposites have received extensive attention due to their potential applications in spintronics, information storage and logic devices. The extrinsic ME coupling in composites is strain mediated via the interface between the piezoelectric and magnetostrictive components. However, the design and synthesis of controlled nanostructures with engineering enhanced coupling remain a significant challenge. The purpose of this thesis is to create nanostructures with very large interface densities and unique connectivities of the two phases in a controlled manner. Using inorganic solid state phase transformations and organic block copolymer self assembly methodologies, we present novel self assembly "bottom-up" techniques as a general protocol for the nanofabrication of multifunctional devices. First, Lead-Zirconium-Titanate/Nickel-Ferrite (PZT/NFO) vertical multilamellar nanostructures have been produced by crystallizing and decomposing a gel in a magnetic field below the Curie temperature of NFO. The ensuing microstructure is nanoscopically periodic and anisotropic. The wavelength of the PZT/NFO alternation, 25 nm, agrees within a factor of two with the theoretically estimated value. The macroscopic ferromagnetic and magnetoelectric responses correspond qualitatively and semi-quantitatively to the features of the nanostructure. The maximum of the field dependent magnetoelectric susceptibility equals 1.8 V/cm Oe. Second, a magnetoelectric composite with controlled nanostructures is synthesized using co-assembly of two inorganic precursors with a block copolymer. This solution processed material consists of hexagonally arranged ferromagnetic cobalt ferrite (CFO) nano-cylinders within a matrix of ferroelectric Lead-Zirconium-Titanate (PZT). The initial magnetic permeability of the self-assembled CFO/PZT nanocomposite changes by a factor of 5 through the application of 2.5 V. This work may have significant impact on the
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Moriarty, Philip
Nanostructured materials may be defined as those materials whose structural elements - clusters, crystallites or molecules - have dimensions in the 1 to 100 nm range. The explosion in both academic and industrial interest in these materials over the past decade arises from the remarkable variations in fundamental electrical, optical and magnetic properties that occur as one progresses from an `infinitely extended' solid to a particle of material consisting of a countable number of atoms. This review details recent advances in the synthesis and investigation of functional nanostructured materials, focusing on the novel size-dependent physics and chemistry that results when electrons are confined within nanoscale semiconductor and metal clusters and colloids. Carbon-based nanomaterials and nanostructures including fullerenes and nanotubes play an increasingly pervasive role in nanoscale science and technology and are thus described in some depth. Current nanodevice fabrication methods and the future prospects for nanostructured materials and nanodevices are discussed.
Characterization of Nanostructured Polymer Films
of the film for complete polymer chain relaxation, including relaxation of surface features . The presence of intact surface globules at a substrate...AFRL-OSR-VA-TR-2015-0059 Characterization of Nanostructured Polymer Films RODNEY PRIESTLEY TRUSTEES OF PRINCETON UNIVERSITY Final Report 12/23/2014...Report 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 06/01/2012-08/31/2014 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Characterization of Nanostructured Polymer Films 5a. CONTRACT
Synthesis and characterization of one-dimensional nanostructured fluorine-doped tin dioxide thin films
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Murakami, Kenji; Bandara, Ajith; Okuya, Masayuki; Shimomura, Masaru; Rajapakse, R. M. G.
This paper describes preparation and characterization of the optically-transparent and electrically conducting thin films of fluoride-doped tin dioxide (FTO) one-dimensional nanostructures and features of the purpose-built, novel and advanced version of spray pyrolysis technique, known as Rotational, Pulsed and Atomized Spray Pyrolysis. This technique allows perfect and simple control of morphology of the nanostructures of FTO layer by adjusting the spray conditions. Effect of the different additives on crystal morphology and texture of the 1-dimensional (1-D) nanostructured FTO thin films is studied. Vertically aligned and well separated nanotubes are easily fabricated using propanone and ethanol as additives. We suggest that propanone additive plays a role to form vertically aligned nanotubes with (101) preferential orientation while (110) face is the predominant plane of well separated nanotubes with ethanol additive. The conductivity of the 1-D nanostructured thin films are also enhanced using the commercial FTO glasses as a substrate.
A form of cell death with some features resembling apoptosis in the amitochondrial unicellular organism Trichomonas vaginalis.
Chose, Olivier; Noël, Christophe; Gerbod, Delphine; Brenner, Catherine; Viscogliosi, Eric; Roseto, Alberto
One of hallmarks of apoptosis is the degradation and concomitant compaction of chromatin. It is assumed that caspases and caspase-independent pathways are rate limiting for the development of nuclear apoptosis. The caspase-independent pathway involves apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and leads to DNA fragmentation and peripheral chromatin condensation. Both pathways are the result of activation of death signals that the mitochondrion receives, integrates, and responds to with the release of various molecules (e.g., cytochrome c and AIF). In fact, both pathways have in common the final point of the DNA fragmentation and the mitochondrial origin of molecules that initiate the apoptotic events. Here, we examine the question of whether apoptosis or apoptotic-like processes exist in a unicellular organism that lacks mitochondria. We herein show that a form of cell death with some features resembling apoptosis is indeed present in Trichomonas vaginalis. Characterization of morphological aspects implicated in this event together with the preliminary biochemical data provided may lead to new insight about the evolutionary relationships between the different forms of programmed cell death identified so far.
Prediction of protein subcellular localization by incorporating multiobjective PSO-based feature subset selection into the general form of Chou's PseAAC.
Mandal, Monalisa; Mukhopadhyay, Anirban; Maulik, Ujjwal
In this article, the possible subcellular location of a protein is predicted using multiobjective particle swarm optimization-based feature selection technique. In general form of pseudo-amino acid composition, the protein sequences are used for constructing protein features. Here, the different amino acids compositions are used to construct the feature sets. Therefore, the data are presented as sample of protein versus amino acid compositions as features. The proposed algorithm tries to maximize the feature relevance and minimize the feature redundancy simultaneously. After proposed algorithm is executed on the multiclass dataset, some features are selected. On this resultant feature subset, tenfold cross-validation is applied and corresponding accuracy, F score, entropy, representation entropy and average correlation are calculated. The performance of the proposed method is compared with that of its single objective versions, sequential forward search, sequential backward search, minimum redundancy maximum relevance with two schemes, CFS, CBFS, [Formula: see text], Fisher discriminant and a Cluster-based technique.
Integration of inorganic nanostructures with polydopamine-derived carbon: tunable morphologies and versatile applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kong, Junhua; Seyed Shahabadi, Seyed Ismail; Lu, Xuehong
Polydopamine (PDA), a mussel adhesive-inspired biomimetic polymer, has attracted tremendous attention owing to its extremely versatile adhesion properties, facile aqueous coating process, capability of self-assembly to form nanostructures, and abundant surface functional groups for secondary modification. PDA is also a fantastic carbon source because it gives nitrogen (N)-doped graphite-like carbon in high yield, and the carbonized PDA (C-PDA) thin coatings have similar properties to those of N-doped multilayered graphene, i.e., they exhibit high electrical conductivity, and good electrochemical and mechanical properties. In comparison with other carbon sources, an outstanding feature of PDA lies in its ease of integration with inorganic nanostructures and capability for easy tailoring the structure and morphology of the resultant composite nanostructures. In this article, different routes for the preparation of C-PDA-based composite nanostructures, such as carbon/metal oxide and carbon/Si hollow, mesoporous, core-shell, yolk-shell nanostructures, are introduced with typical examples. The structures, morphologies and properties of the C-PDA-based composite nanostructures are also reviewed, and their potential applications in various engineering fields, such as energy storage, solar water splitting, flexible electronics, catalysis, sensing and environmental engineering, are highlighted. Finally a future outlook for this fascinating composite-nanostructure enabler is also presented.
Enhanced functions of vascular cells on nanostructured Ti for improved stent applications.
Choudhary, Saba; Haberstroh, Karen M; Webster, Thomas J
Vascular tissue possesses numerous nanostructured surface features, but most metallic vascular stents proposed to restore blood flow are smooth at the nanoscale. Thus, the objective of the present study was to determine in vitro vascular cell functions on nanostructured titanium (Ti) compared to conventional commercially pure (c.p.) Ti. Results of this study showed for the first time greater competitive adhesion of endothelial versus vascular smooth muscle cells on nanostructured Ti compared to conventional Ti after 4 hours. Moreover, when cultured separately, increased endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell density was observed on nanostructured Ti compared to conventional c.p. Ti after 1, 3, and 5 days; endothelial cells formed confluent monolayers before vascular smooth muscle cells on nanostructured Ti. Results also showed greater total amounts of collagen and elastin synthesis by vascular cells when cultured on nanostructured Ti. Since a major mode of failure of conventional vascular stents is the overgrowth of smooth muscle cells compared to endothelial cells, these results suggest that while the functions of both types of vascular cells were promoted on nanostructured c.p. Ti, endothelial cell functions (of particular importance, cell density or confluence) were enhanced over that of vascular smooth muscle cells. Thus, the present in vitro study showed that vascular stents composed of nanometer c.p. Ti particles may invoke advantageous cellular responses for improved stent applications.
Aqueous Black Colloids of Reticular Nanostructured Gold
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Stanca, S. E.; Fritzsche, W.; Dellith, J.; Froehlich, F.; Undisz, A.; Deckert, V.; Krafft, C.; Popp, J.
Since ancient times, noble gold has continuously contributed to several aspects of life from medicine to electronics. It perpetually reveals its new features. We report the finding of a unique form of gold, reticular nanostructured gold (RNG), as an aqueous black colloid, for which we present a one-step synthesis. The reticules consist of gold crystals that interconnect to form compact strands. RNG exhibits high conductivity and low reflection, and these features, coupled with the high specific surface area of the material, could prove valuable for applications in electronics and catalysis. Due to high absorption throughout the visible and infrared domain, RNG has the potential to be applied in the construction of sensitive solar cells or as a substrate for Raman spectroscopy.
Chemically enabled nanostructure fabrication
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Huo, Fengwei
The first part of the dissertation explored ways of chemically synthesizing new nanoparticles and biologically guided assembly of nanoparticle building blocks. Chapter two focuses on synthesizing three-layer composite magnetic nanoparticles with a gold shell which can be easily functionalized with other biomolecules. The three-layer magnetic nanoparticles, when functionalized with oligonucleotides, exhibit the surface chemistry, optical properties, and cooperative DNA binding properties of gold nanoparticle probes, while maintaining the magnetic properties of the Fe3O4 inner shell. Chapter three describes a new method for synthesizing nanoparticles asymmetrically functionalized with oligonucleotides and the use of these novel building blocks to create satellite structures. This synthetic capability allows one to introduce valency into such structures and then use that valency to direct particle assembly events. The second part of the thesis explored approaches of nanostructure fabrication on substrates. Chapter four focuses on the development of a new scanning probe contact printing method, polymer pen lithography (PPL), which combines the advantages of muCp and DPN to achieve high-throughput, flexible molecular printing. PPL uses a soft elastomeric tip array, rather than tips mounted on individual cantilevers, to deliver inks to a surface in a "direct write" manner. Arrays with as many as ˜11 million pyramid-shaped pens can be brought into contact with substrates and readily leveled optically in order to insure uniform pattern development. Chapter five describes gel pen lithography, which uses a gel to fabricate pen array. Gel pen lithography is a low-cost, high-throughput nanolithography method especially useful for biomaterials patterning and aqueous solution patterning which makes it a supplement to DPN and PPL. Chapter 6 shows a novel form of optical nanolithography, Beam Pen Lithography (BPL), which uses an array of NSOM pens to do nanoscale optical
Epidemiological and clinical features of the endomyocardial form of restrictive cardiomyopathy in cats: a review of 41 cases
KIMURA, Yusuke; FUKUSHIMA, Ryuji; HIRAKAWA, Atsushi; KOBAYASHI, Masayuki; MACHIDA, Noboru
Examination of our necropsy records for the period 2005 to 2014 yielded 41 cases of the endomyocardial form of restrictive cardiomyopathy among 327 cats with evidence of heart disease, and here, we reviewed their epidemiological and clinical features. The medical data obtained retrospectively included signalment, presenting complaints, findings of physical examination, results of various diagnostic tests, methods of treatment and survival times. Except for one Chinchilla Persian cat, all were domestic short-haired cats. The mean age at death was 7.3 ± 4.5 years (median, 6 years; range, 4 months to 19 years), and males accounted for 61% (25/41) of the total. Dyspnea was the most common clinical sign, being evident in 83% (35/41) of the cats. Hind limb paresis or paralysis due to aortic thromboembolism was evident in 41% (17/41). Arrhythmias of atrial origin were common. Echocardiography commonly revealed left atrial or biatrial enlargement with severe endocardial thickening of the left ventricle. Most of the affected cats had a poor outcome; the disease duration ranged from 1 to 977 days, and the median survival period was 30 days. PMID:26822001
Specific features of the atomic structure of metallic layers of multilayered (CoFeZr/SiO2)32 and (CoFeZr/ a-Si)40 nanostructures with different interlayers
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Domashevskaya, E. P.; Guda, A. A.; Chernyshev, A. V.; Sitnikov, V. G.
Multilayered nanostructures (MN) were prepared by ion-beam successive sputtering from two targets, one of which was a metallic Co45Fe45Zr10 alloy plate and another target was a quartz (SiO2) or silicon plate on the surface of a rotating glass-ceramic substrate in an argon atmosphere. The Co and Fe K edges X-ray absorption fine structure of XANES in the (CoFeZr/SiO2)32 sample with oxide interlayers was similar to XANES of metallic Fe foil. This indicated the existence in metallic layers of multilayered CoFeZr nanocrystals with a local environment similar to the atomic environment in solid solutions on the base of bcc Fe structure, which is also confirmed by XRD data. XANES near the Co and Fe K edges absorption in another multilayered nanostructure with silicon interlayers (CoFeZr/ a-Si)40 differs from XANES of MN with dielectric SiO2 interlayer, which demonstrates a dominant influence of the Fe-Si and Co-Si bonds in the local environment of 3 d Co and Fe metals when they form CoFeSi-type silicide phases in thinner bilayers of this MN.
Plasmonic Nanostructured Cellular Automata
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Alkhazraji, Emad; Ghalib, A.; Manzoor, K.; Alsunaidi, M. A.
In this work, we have investigated the scattering plasmonic resonance characteristics of silver nanospheres with a geometrical distribution that is modelled by Cellular Automata using time-domain numerical analysis. Cellular Automata are discrete mathematical structures that model different natural phenomena. Two binary one-dimensional Cellular Automata rules are considered to model the nanostructure, namely rule 30 and rule 33. The analysis produces three-dimensional scattering profiles of the entire plasmonic nanostructure. For the Cellular Automaton rule 33, the introduction of more Cellular Automata generations resulted only in slight red and blue shifts in the plasmonic modes with respect to the first generation. On the other hand, while rule 30 introduced significant red shifts in the resonance peaks at early generations, at later generations however, a peculiar effect is witnessed in the scattering profile as new peaks emerge as a feature of the overall Cellular Automata structure rather than the sum of the smaller parts that compose it. We strongly believe that these features that emerge as a result adopting the different 256 Cellular Automata rules as configuration models of nanostructures in different applications and systems might possess a great potential in enhancing their capability, sensitivity, efficiency, and power utilization.
Photocatalytic activity of nanostructured {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} composite powder formed via a polyelectrolyte-multilayer-assisted sol-gel reaction
Logar, Manca; Kocjan, Andraz; Dakskobler, Ales
Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer PEM assisted synthesis for {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} composite powder is developed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nanoparticulate TiO{sub 2} layer results in high specific surface area composite powder. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} composite powder exhibit enhanced photocatalytic activity. -- Abstract: Nanostructured, {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} composite powder was fabricated via an in situ, sol-gel reaction of titanium iso-propoxide in a self-assembled, polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) formed on the surface of high-specific-area, polycrystalline, {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} lamellas. The infiltration of the titanium precursor into the PEM, followed by the hydrolysis and condensation reactions with the water absorbed in the PEM after annealing, resulted in the formation of a nanostructured TiO{sub 2} layer on the surface of the {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} lamellas. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to evaluate the morphology, the chemical composition and the crystallinity of the {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} particles of the composite powder. The as-formed, nanostructured, {gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} composite powder exhibited a 2.7-times-higher photo-activity in the near-UV region compared to commercially available TiO{sub 2} (Degusa P25), as monitored by the photo-decomposition of a methylene blue (MB) dye.
Sintering and ripening resistant noble metal nanostructures
van Swol, Frank B; Song, Yujiang; Shelnutt, John A; Miller, James E; Challa, Sivakumar R
Durable porous metal nanostructures comprising thin metal nanosheets that are metastable under some conditions that commonly produce rapid reduction in surface area due to sintering and/or Ostwald ripening. The invention further comprises the method for making such durable porous metal nanostructures. Durable, high-surface area nanostructures result from the formation of persistent durable holes or pores in metal nanosheets formed from dendritic nanosheets.
Larval myogenesis in Echinodermata: conserved features and morphological diversity between class-specific larval forms of Echinoidae, Asteroidea, and Holothuroidea.
Dyachuk, Vyacheslav; Odintsova, Nelly
The myogenesis of class-specific larval forms of three classes belonging to the phylum Echinodermata (Echinoidae, Asteroidea, and Holothuroidea) was investigated via gross-anatomy and comparative morphology of larval muscles. Using staining with phalloidin and antibodies against the muscle proteins, with subsequent CLSM and 3D imaging, we have examined myogenesis in the larvae from the gastrula stage to pre-metamorphosis larval stages. We have shown that temporal and spatial expression of muscle proteins is similar in echinoidea and asteroidea larvae but differs in holothuroidea larvae at early developmental stages. New insights regarding the protein composition of maturing muscular fibrils during development in echinoderm larvae were detected. The first differentiating muscle structures in all tested classes have been found to be circular esophageal muscles that are associated with larval feeding. During early differentiation of echinoderm larval muscle cells, we observed that the expression patterns of the muscle proteins were not uniform but with a characteristic diffuse distribution, which is typical for smooth muscle. An unusual pattern of expression of the muscle proteins was detected in larval sphincters: the thick muscle proteins were first expressed during the early developmental stages, whereas F-actin appeared at later stages. In addition, paired star-shaped muscles were revealed in the mature Echinoidae plutei, but were absent in the Asteroidea, and Holothuroidea larvae. All tested species of Echinodermata exhibited both conserved features of muscle morphology during development indicating a common life history strategy and a planktonic habitat, and also an extensive morphological diversity representing specific anatomical adaptations during development.
Nanostructure Neutron Converter Layer Development
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Park, Cheol (Inventor); Sauti, Godfrey (Inventor); Kang, Jin Ho (Inventor); Lowther, Sharon E. (Inventor); Thibeault, Sheila A. (Inventor); Bryant, Robert G. (Inventor)
Methods for making a neutron converter layer are provided. The various embodiment methods enable the formation of a single layer neutron converter material. The single layer neutron converter material formed according to the various embodiments may have a high neutron absorption cross section, tailored resistivity providing a good electric field penetration with submicron particles, and a high secondary electron emission coefficient. In an embodiment method a neutron converter layer may be formed by sequential supercritical fluid metallization of a porous nanostructure aerogel or polyimide film. In another embodiment method a neutron converter layer may be formed by simultaneous supercritical fluid metallization of a porous nanostructure aerogel or polyimide film. In a further embodiment method a neutron converter layer may be formed by in-situ metalized aerogel nanostructure development.
Planar plasmonic chiral nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zu, Shuai; Bao, Yanjun; Fang, Zheyu
A strong chiral optical response induced at a plasmonic Fano resonance in a planar Au heptamer nanostructure was experimentally and theoretically demonstrated. The scattering spectra show the characteristic narrow-band feature of Fano resonances for both left and right circular polarized lights, with a chiral response reaching 30% at the Fano resonance. Specifically, we systematically investigate the chiral response of planar heptamers with gradually changing the inter-particle rotation angles and separation distance. The chiral spectral characteristics clearly depend on the strength of Fano resonances and the associated near-field optical distributions. Finite element method simulations together with a multipole expansion method demonstrate that the enhanced chirality is caused by the excitation of magnetic quadrupolar and electric toroidal dipolar modes. Our work provides an effective method for the design of 2D nanostructures with a strong chiral response.A strong chiral optical response induced at a plasmonic Fano resonance in a planar Au heptamer nanostructure was experimentally and theoretically demonstrated. The scattering spectra show the characteristic narrow-band feature of Fano resonances for both left and right circular polarized lights, with a chiral response reaching 30% at the Fano resonance. Specifically, we systematically investigate the chiral response of planar heptamers with gradually changing the inter-particle rotation angles and separation distance. The chiral spectral characteristics clearly depend on the strength of Fano resonances and the associated near-field optical distributions. Finite element method simulations together with a multipole expansion method demonstrate that the enhanced chirality is caused by the excitation of magnetic quadrupolar and electric toroidal dipolar modes. Our work provides an effective method for the design of 2D nanostructures with a strong chiral response. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available
Microscopic characterization of peptide nanostructures.
Mammadov, Rashad; Tekinay, Ayse B; Dana, Aykutlu; Guler, Mustafa O
Peptide-based nanomaterials have been utilized for various applications from regenerative medicine to electronics since they provide several advantages including easy synthesis methods, numerous routes for functionalization and biomimicry of secondary structures of proteins which leads to design of self-assembling peptide molecules to form nanostructures. Microscopic characterization at nanoscale is critical to understand processes directing peptide molecules to self-assemble and identify structure-function relationship of the nanostructures. Here, fundamental studies in microscopic characterization of peptide nanostructures are discussed to provide insights in widely used microscopy tools. In this review, we will encompass characterization studies of peptide nanostructures with modern microscopes, such as TEM, SEM, AFM, and advanced optical microscopy techniques. We will also mention specimen preparation methods and describe interpretation of the images.
Organizational-Pedagogical Conditions to Form the Foreign Competence in Students with the Features of Linguistic Giftedness
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Panfilova, Valentina Michailovna; Panfilov, Alexey Nikolaevich; Merzon, Elena Efimovna
The study of foreign competence at the present stage of the higher education development becomes more relevant. The article emphasizes the organizational-pedagogical conditions, providing the formation of foreign competence in students with the features of linguistic giftedness. The way to reveal the students, who have the features of linguistic…
Anchored nanostructure materials and method of fabrication
Seals, Roland D; Menchhofer, Paul A; Howe, Jane Y; Wang, Wei
Anchored nanostructure materials and methods for their fabrication are described. The anchored nanostructure materials may utilize nano-catalysts that include powder-based or solid-based support materials. The support material may comprise metal, such as NiAl, ceramic, a cermet, or silicon or other metalloid. Typically, nanoparticles are disposed adjacent a surface of the support material. Nanostructures may be formed as anchored to nanoparticles that are adjacent the surface of the support material by heating the nano-catalysts and then exposing the nano-catalysts to an organic vapor. The nanostructures are typically single wall or multi-wall carbon nanotubes.
Antibacterial Au nanostructured surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wu, Songmei; Zuber, Flavia; Brugger, Juergen; Maniura-Weber, Katharina; Ren, Qun
We present here a technological platform for engineering Au nanotopographies by templated electrodeposition on antibacterial surfaces. Three different types of nanostructures were fabricated: nanopillars, nanorings and nanonuggets. The nanopillars are the basic structures and are 50 nm in diameter and 100 nm in height. Particular arrangement of the nanopillars in various geometries formed nanorings and nanonuggets. Flat surfaces, rough substrate surfaces, and various nanostructured surfaces were compared for their abilities to attach and kill bacterial cells. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterial strain responsible for many infections in health care system, was used as the model bacterial strain. It was found that all the Au nanostructures, regardless their shapes, exhibited similar excellent antibacterial properties. A comparison of live cells attached to nanotopographic surfaces showed that the number of live S. aureus cells was <1% of that from flat and rough reference surfaces. Our micro/nanofabrication process is a scalable approach based on cost-efficient self-organization and provides potential for further developing functional surfaces to study the behavior of microbes on nanoscale topographies.We present here a technological platform for engineering Au nanotopographies by templated electrodeposition on antibacterial surfaces. Three different types of nanostructures were fabricated: nanopillars, nanorings and nanonuggets. The nanopillars are the basic structures and are 50 nm in diameter and 100 nm in height. Particular arrangement of the nanopillars in various geometries formed nanorings and nanonuggets. Flat surfaces, rough substrate surfaces, and various nanostructured surfaces were compared for their abilities to attach and kill bacterial cells. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterial strain responsible for many infections in health care system, was used as the model bacterial strain. It
Portraits of colloidal hybrid nanostructures: controlled synthesis and potential applications.
Nguyen, Thanh-Dinh
Inorganic hybrid nanostructures containing two or more nanocomponents have been emerging in many areas of materials science in recent years. The particle-particle interactions in a hybrid particle system could significantly improve existing local electronic structure and induce tunable physiochemical responses. The current work reviews the diverse inorganic hybrid nanostructures formed by adhesion of the different single components via seed-mediated method. The hybrid nanomaterials have great potentials for real applications in many other fields. The nanohybrids have been used as efficient heterocatalysts for carbon monoxide conversion and photodegradation of organic contaminants. The enhanced catalytic activity of these hybrid nanocatalysts could be attributed the formation of oxygen vacancies and electron transfer across the structural junction in a hybrid system as a result of the interfacial particle-particle interactions. The synergistic combination of up-converting and semiconducting properties in an up-converting semiconducting hybrid particle results in appearance of sub-band-gap photoconductivity. This behavior has a great significance for the design of photovoltaic devices for effective solar energy conversion. The functionalization and subsequent bioconjugation of the hybrid nanostructures to afford the multifunctional nanomedical platforms for simultaneous diagnosis and therapy are reviewed. The conjugated multifunctional hybrid nanostructures exhibit high biocompatibility and highly selective binding with functional groups-fabricated alive organs through delivering them to the tumor sites. The clever combinations of multifunctional features and antibody conjugation within these vehicles make them to generally offer new opportunities for clinical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Universal features of water dynamics in solutions of hydrophilic polymers, biopolymers, and small glass-forming materials.
Cerveny, Silvina; Alegría, Angel; Colmenero, Juan
A systematic investigation by dielectric spectroscopy of 18 different water-rich mixtures with very different hydrophilic substances shows universal features for the water dynamics. The temperature dependence of the relaxation times exhibits a crossover from non-Arrhenius to Arrhenius behavior at the T(g) range of the mixtures. Furthermore, the temperature dependence of the relaxation times presents a universal behavior both above and below the crossover temperature. We also show that these features suggest that the observed crossover is associated with the emergence of confinement effects.
Study of the Structure, Composition, and Stability of Yttrium-Ti-Oxygen nm-Scale Features in Nano-Structured Ferritic Alloys
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cunningham, Nicholas John
This work advances the understanding of the Y-Ti-O nanofeatures (NFs) in nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs); a class of high temperature, oxide dispersion strengthened iron alloys with applications in both advanced fission and fusion reactors. NFAs exhibit high creep strength up to 800ºC and a remarkable radiation damage tolerance and He management. However, the NFs, which are responsible for these properties, are not fully understood. This work addresses key questions including: a) what is the NF structure and composition and how are they affected by alloy composition and processing; b) what is the NFA long-term thermal stability; c) and what alternative processing paths are available to reduce costs and produce more uniform NF distributions? A detailed study using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM-group member Y. Wu), and atom probe tomography (APT) evaluated the NF average size (), number density (N), volume fraction (f), composition, and structure in two heats of the commercial NFA MA957. The and N were ≈2.6 nm and ≈5x1023 m-3 , respectively, for both heats, with TEM indicating the NF are Y 2Ti2O7. However, SANS indicates a mixture of NF compositions or atomic densities with a difference between the heats, while APT shows compositions with ≈ 10% Cr and a Y/Ti ratio < 1. However, microscope artifacts such as preferential undercounting of Y and O or trajectory aberrations that prevent resolving Ti segregation to the NF-matrix interface could account for the discrepancy. The microstructure and NFs in MA957 were stable for long times at temperatures up to 900ºC. Notably, Ti in the matrix and some from the NFs migrates to large, Ti-rich phases. Aging at higher temperatures up to 1000ºC for 19.5 kh produced modest coarsening for ≈ 3.8 nm and ≈30% increase in grain size for a corresponding 13% reduction in microhardness. A coarsening model shows no significant NF coarsening will occur at temperatures less than
Directed spatial organization of zinc oxide nanostructures
Hsu, Julia; Liu, Jun
A method for controllably forming zinc oxide nanostructures on a surface via an organic template, which is formed using a stamp prepared from pre-defined relief structures, inking the stamp with a solution comprising self-assembled monolayer (SAM) molecules, contacting the stamp to the surface, such as Ag sputtered on Si, and immersing the surface with the patterned SAM molecules with a zinc-containing solution with pH control to form zinc oxide nanostructures on the bare Ag surface.
Lightweight Beryllium Free Nanostructured Nanostructured Composites
Plasma Processes, Inc. Lightweight Beryllium Free Nanostructured Composites SBIR Contract DASG60-02-P-41 Phase I Final Report 1/15/03 Submitted by...Report Type N/A Dates Covered (from... to) - Title and Subtitle Lightweight Beryllium Free Nanostructured Nanostructured Composites Contract
Leveraging Fourth and Sixth Graders' Experiences to Reveal Understanding of the Forms and Features of Distributed Causality
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Grotzer, Tina A.; Derbiszewska, Katarzyna; Solis, S. Lynneth
Research has focused on students' difficulties understanding phenomena in which agency is distributed across actors whose individual-level behaviors converge to result in collective outcomes. Building on Levy and Wilensky (2008), this study identified features of distributed causality students understand and that may offer affordances for…
TOPICAL REVIEW: Hybrid nanostructures for efficient light harvesting
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mackowski, Sebastian
Hybrid nanostructures are systems composed of two or more nanostructures designed for improving the performance over individual components. In this work we introduce the concept of bridging natural photosynthetic protein-pigment complexes with nanostructures fabricated in an artificial way, such as semiconductor nanocrystals, metallic nanoparticles or carbon nanotubes, with the purpose of enhancing the efficiency of light harvesting either via plasmon excitation in metals or absorption tunability characteristics of semiconductors. In addition to presenting basic features of inorganic nanostructures, we discuss recent advances in the field of hybrid nanostructures composed of photosynthetic pigment-protein complexes.
DNA nanostructure-based imaging probes and drug carriers.
Zhan, Pengfei; Jiang, Qiao; Wang, Zhen-Gang; Li, Na; Yu, Haiyin; Ding, Baoquan
Self-assembled DNA nanostructures are well-defined nanoscale shapes, with uniform sizes, precise spatial addressability, and excellent biocompatibility. With these features, DNA nanostructures show great potential for biomedical applications; various DNA-based biomedical imaging probes or payload delivery carriers have been developed. In this review, we summarize the recent developments of DNA-based nanostructures as tools for diagnosis and cancer therapy. The biological effects that are brought about by DNA nanostructures are highlighted by in vitro and in vivo imaging, antitumor drug delivery, and immunostimulatory therapy. The challenges and perspectives of DNA nanostructures in the field of nanomedicine are discussed.
One-dimensional semiconductor nanostructure based thin-film partial composite formed by transfer implantation for high-performance flexible and printable electronics at low temperature.
Moon, Kyeong-Ju; Lee, Tae-Il; Choi, Ji-Hyuk; Jeon, Joohee; Kang, Youn Hee; Kar, Jyoti Prakash; Kang, Jung Han; Yun, Ilgu; Myoung, Jae-Min
Having high bending stability and effective gate coupling, the one-dimensional semiconductor nanostructures (ODSNs)-based thin-film partial composite was demonstrated, and its feasibility was confirmed through fabricating the Si NW thin-film partial composite on the poly(4-vinylphenol) (PVP) layer, obtaining uniform and high-performance flexible field-effect transistors (FETs). With the thin-film partial composite optimized by controlling the key steps consisting of the two-dimensional random dispersion on the hydrophilic substrate of ODSNs and the pressure-induced transfer implantation of them into the uncured thin dielectric polymer layer, the multinanowire (NW) FET devices were simply fabricated. As the NW density increases, the on-current of NW FETs increases linearly, implying that uniform NW distribution can be obtained with random directions over the entire region of the substrate despite the simplicity of the drop-casting method. The implantation of NWs by mechanical transfer printing onto the PVP layer enhanced the gate coupling and bending stability. As a result, the enhancements of the field-effect mobility and subthreshold swing and the stable device operation up to a 2.5 mm radius bending situation were achieved without an additional top passivation.
DNA nanostructure meets nanofabrication.
Zhang, Guomei; Surwade, Sumedh P; Zhou, Feng; Liu, Haitao
Recent advances in DNA nanotechnology have made it possible to construct DNA nanostructures of almost arbitrary shapes with 2-3 nm of precision in their dimensions. These DNA nanostructures are ideal templates for bottom-up nanofabrication. This review highlights the challenges and recent advances in three areas that are directly related to DNA-based nanofabrication: (1) fabrication of large scale DNA nanostructures; (2) pattern transfer from DNA nanostructure to an inorganic substrate; and (3) directed assembly of DNA nanostructures.
Optimized design of a nanostructured SPCE-based multipurpose biosensing platform formed by ferrocene-tethered electrochemically-deposited cauliflower-shaped gold nanoparticles
Argoubi, Wicem; Saadaoui, Maroua
Summary The demand for on-site nanodevices is constantly increasing. The technology development for the design of such devices is highly regarded. In this work, we report the design of a disposable platform that is structured with cauliflower-shaped gold nanoparticles (cfAuNPs) and we show its applications in immunosensing and enzyme-based detection. The electrochemical reduction of Au(III) allows for the electrodeposition of highly dispersed cauliflower-shaped gold nanoparticles on the surface of screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs). The nanostructures were functionalized using ferrocenylmethyl lipoic acid ester which allowed for the tethering of the ferrocene group to gold, which serves as an electrochemical transducer/mediator. The bioconjugation of the surface with anti-human IgG antibody (α-hIgG) or horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme yields biosensors, which have been applied for the selective electrochemical detection of human IgG (hIgG) or H2O2 as model analytes, respectively. Parameters such as the number of sweeps, amount of charge generated from the oxidation of the electrodeposited gold, time of incubation and concentration of the ferrocene derivatives have been studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Selectivity and specificity tests have been also performed in the presence of potentially interfering substances to either hIgG or H2O2. Results showed that the devised immunosensor is endowed with good selectivity and specificity in the presence of several folds of competitive analytes. The enzyme-based platform showed a good catalytic activity towards H2O2 oxidation which predestined it to potential applications pertaining to enzymatic kinetics studies. The levels of hIgG in human serum and H2O2 in honey were successfully determined and served as assessment tools of the applicability of the platforms for real samples analysis. PMID:26425435
Structural features of the pore formed by Staphylococcus aureus alpha-toxin inferred from chemical modification and primary structure analysis.
Menestrina, G; Belmonte, G; Parisi, V; Morante, S
Staphylococcus aureus alpha-toxin makes cells and model membranes permeable to ions and uncharged molecules by opening oligomeric pores of uniform size. Its primary sequence reveals peculiar features which give some hints on the structure of the pore. A flexible region separating the toxin into two halves, several amphiphilic beta-strands and two amphiphilic alpha-helices long enough to span the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer are predicted. In analogy to bacterial porins, we propose that the inner walls of the pore are, at least in part, built by an amphiphilic beta-barrel. The model is consistent with circular dichroism data and with the electrophysiological properties of the pore. Functional information on this toxin were obtained by chemical modification of its four histidine residues. Specific carbethoxylation suggested they have different roles: one is required for specific receptor binding, one for oligomerisation and two for unspecific lipid binding. A tentative assignment of each histidine to its specific role is done on the basis of the structural predictions. A functionally related hemolysin, Aeromonas hydrophyla aerolysin, reveals remarkably similar features including the presence and location of histidines involved in receptor binding and oligomerisation.
Ceramic nanostructures and methods of fabrication
Ripley, Edward B.; Seals, Roland D.; Morrell, Jonathan S.
Structures and methods for the fabrication of ceramic nanostructures. Structures include metal particles, preferably comprising copper, disposed on a ceramic substrate. The structures are heated, preferably in the presence of microwaves, to a temperature that softens the metal particles and preferably forms a pool of molten ceramic under the softened metal particle. A nano-generator is created wherein ceramic material diffuses through the molten particle and forms ceramic nanostructures on a polar site of the metal particle. The nanostructures may comprise silica, alumina, titania, or compounds or mixtures thereof.
A transparent nanostructured optical biosensor.
He, Yuan; Li, Xiang; Que, Long
Herein we report a new transparent nanostructured Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPI) device. The unique features of the nanostructured optical device can be summarized as the following: (i) optically transparent nanostructured optical device; (ii) simple and inexpensive for fabrication; (iii) easy to be fabricated and scaled up as an arrayed format. These features overcome the existing barriers for the current nanopore-based interferometric optical biosensors by measuring the transmitted optical signals rather than the reflected optical signals, thereby facilitating the optical testing significantly for the arrayed biosensors and thus paving the way for their potential for high throughput biodetection applications. The optically transparent nanostructures (i.e., anodic aluminum oxide nanopores) inside the FPI devices are fabricated from 2.2 microm thick lithographically patterned Al thin film on an indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrate using a two-step anodization process. Utilizing the binding between Protein A and porcine immunoglobulin G (IgG) as a model, the detection of the bioreaction between biomolecules has been demonstrated successfully. Experiments found that the lowest detection concentration of proteins is in the range of picomolar level using current devices, which can be easily tuned into the range of femtomolar level by optimizing the performance of devices.
Titanate and titania nanostructures and nanostructure assemblies, and methods of making same
Wong, Stanislaus S; Mao, Yuanbing
The invention relates to nanomaterials and assemblies including, a micrometer-scale spherical aggregate comprising: a plurality of one-dimensional nanostructures comprising titanium and oxygen, wherein the one-dimensional nanostructures radiate from a hollow central core thereby forming a spherical aggregate.
Titanate and titania nanostructures and nanostructure assemblies, and methods of making same
Wong, Stanislaus S.; Mao, Yuanbing
The invention relates to nanomaterial's and assemblies including, a micrometer-scale spherical aggregate comprising: a plurality of one-dimensional nanostructures comprising titanium and oxygen, wherein the one-dimensional nanostructures radiate from a hollow central core thereby forming a spherical aggregate.
Decreased bacteria density on nanostructured polyurethane.
Yao, Chang; Webster, Thomas J; Hedrick, Matthew
As is well known, medical device infections are a growing clinical problem with no clear solution due to previous failed attempts of using antibiotics to decrease bacteria functions for which bacteria quickly develop a resistance toward. Because of their altered surface energetics, the objective of the present in vitro study was to create nanoscale surface features on polyurethane (PU) by soaking PU films in HNO3 and to determine bacteria (specifically, S. epidermidis, E. coli, and P. mirabilis) colony forming units after 1 h. Such bacteria frequently infect numerous medical devices. Results provided the first evidence that without using antibiotics, S. epidermidis density decreased by 5 and 13 times, E. coli density decreased by 6 and 20 times, and P. mirabilis density decreased by 8 and 35 times compared to conventional PU and a tissue engineering control small intestine submucosa (SIS), respectively. Material characterization studies revealed significantly greater nanoscale roughness and hydrophobicity for the HNO3-treated nanostructured PU compared to conventional PU (albeit, still hydrophilic) which may provide a rationale for the observed decreased bacteria responses. In addition, significantly greater amounts of fibronectin adsorption from serum were measured on nanorough compared conventional PU which may explain the decreased bacteria growth. In summary, this study provides significant promise for the use of nanostructured PU to decrease bacteria functions without the use of antibiotics, clearly addressing the wide spread problem of increased medical device infections observed today.
Formation of nanostructure and nano-hardness characterization on the meso-scale workpiece by a novel laser indirect shock forming method.
Hu, Y; Liu, H X; Wang, X; Shen, Z B; Li, P; Gu, C X; Gu, Y X; Lu, M M; Zhang, Q
The meso-scale workpiece with greatly enhanced mechanical properties is potential to be widely used in the electronics productions and micro-electro mechanical systems. In this study, it demonstrates that the meso-scale cup-shape workpiece with good geometry can be obtained by a novel laser indirect shock forming method. After the forming process, the mechanical properties and microstructures of the formed workpiece were characterized. By transmission electron microscope observation, it was found that a mixed refined microstructure consisting of nano-scale twins embedded in nano-sized grains was produced at the center of the formed sample. Formation of these nanograins could be mainly attributed to two mechanisms: twin-twin intersections and twin∕matrix lamellae fragmentation. By nanoindentation tests, it reveals that the hardness of the sample has increased greatly after laser shock forming and the hardness increases with the laser energy. The elevated hardness originates from a considerable number of nano-scale twins and nanograins, which possess a pretty high strength due to the significant effects of grain boundary strengthening and twin boundary strengthening.
Formation of nanostructure and nano-hardness characterization on the meso-scale workpiece by a novel laser indirect shock forming method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hu, Y.; Liu, H. X.; Wang, X.; Shen, Z. B.; Li, P.; Gu, C. X.; Gu, Y. X.; Lu, M. M.; Zhang, Q.
The meso-scale workpiece with greatly enhanced mechanical properties is potential to be widely used in the electronics productions and micro-electro mechanical systems. In this study, it demonstrates that the meso-scale cup-shape workpiece with good geometry can be obtained by a novel laser indirect shock forming method. After the forming process, the mechanical properties and microstructures of the formed workpiece were characterized. By transmission electron microscope observation, it was found that a mixed refined microstructure consisting of nano-scale twins embedded in nano-sized grains was produced at the center of the formed sample. Formation of these nanograins could be mainly attributed to two mechanisms: twin-twin intersections and twin/matrix lamellae fragmentation. By nanoindentation tests, it reveals that the hardness of the sample has increased greatly after laser shock forming and the hardness increases with the laser energy. The elevated hardness originates from a considerable number of nano-scale twins and nanograins, which possess a pretty high strength due to the significant effects of grain boundary strengthening and twin boundary strengthening.
Nanostructured magnesium has fewer detrimental effects on osteoblast function
Weng, Lucy; Webster, Thomas J
Efforts have been made recently to implement nanoscale surface features on magnesium, a biodegradable metal, to increase bone formation. Compared with normal magnesium, nanostructured magnesium has unique characteristics, including increased grain boundary properties, surface to volume ratio, surface roughness, and surface energy, which may influence the initial adsorption of proteins known to promote the function of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells). Previous studies have shown that one way to increase nanosurface roughness on magnesium is to soak the metal in NaOH. However, it has not been determined if degradation of magnesium is altered by creating nanoscale features on its surface to influence osteoblast density. The aim of the present in vitro study was to determine the influence of degradation of nanostructured magnesium, created by soaking in NaOH, on osteoblast density. Our results showed a less detrimental effect of magnesium degradation on osteoblast density when magnesium was treated with NaOH to create nanoscale surface features. The detrimental degradation products of magnesium are of significant concern when considering use of magnesium as an orthopedic implant material, and this study identified a surface treatment, ie, soaking in NaOH to create nanoscale features for magnesium that can improve its use in numerous orthopedic applications. PMID:23674891
Synthesis, morphology, optical and photocatalytic performance of nanostructured β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3}
Girija, K.; Thirumalairajan, S.; Avadhani, G.S.; Mangalaraj, D.; Ponpandian, N.; Viswanathan, C.
Highlights: ► Nanostructures of β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} were prepared using facile reflux condensation process. ► The pH of the reaction mixture shows evident influence on the size and shape of the nanostructures formed. ► The nanostructures exhibited good photocatalytic activity toward Rhodamine B and was found to be superior for higher pH value. - Abstract: Fine powders of β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures were prepared via low temperature reflux condensation method by varying the pH value without using any surfactant. The pH value of reaction mixture had great influence on the morphology of final products. High crystalline single phase β-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanostructures were obtained by thermal treatment at 900 °C which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The morphological analysis revealed rod like nanostructures at lower and higher pH values of 6 and 10, while spindle like structures were obtained at pH = 8. The phase purity and presence of vibrational bands were identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The optical absorbance spectrum showed intense absorption features in the UV spectral region. A broad blue emission peak centered at 441 nm due to donor–acceptor gallium–oxygen vacancy pair recombination appeared. The photocatalytic activity toward Rhodamine B under visible light irradiation was higher for nanorods at pH 10.
PREFACE: Self-organized nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rousset, Sylvie; Ortega, Enrique
In order to fabricate ordered arrays of nanostructures, two different strategies might be considered. The `top-down' approach consists of pushing the limit of lithography techniques down to the nanometre scale. However, beyond 10 nm lithography techniques will inevitably face major intrinsic limitations. An alternative method for elaborating ultimate-size nanostructures is based on the reverse `bottom-up' approach, i.e. building up nanostructures (and eventually assemble them to form functional circuits) from individual atoms or molecules. Scanning probe microscopies, including scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) invented in 1982, have made it possible to create (and visualize) individual structures atom by atom. However, such individual atomic manipulation is not suitable for industrial applications. Self-assembly or self-organization of nanostructures on solid surfaces is a bottom-up approach that allows one to fabricate and assemble nanostructure arrays in a one-step process. For applications, such as high density magnetic storage, self-assembly appears to be the simplest alternative to lithography for massive, parallel fabrication of nanostructure arrays with regular sizes and spacings. These are also necessary for investigating the physical properties of individual nanostructures by means of averaging techniques, i.e. all those using light or particle beams. The state-of-the-art and the current developments in the field of self-organization and physical properties of assembled nanostructures are reviewed in this issue of Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter. The papers have been selected from among the invited and oral presentations of the recent summer workshop held in Cargese (Corsica, France, 17-23 July 2005). All authors are world-renowned in the field. The workshop has been funded by the Marie Curie Actions: Marie Curie Conferences and Training Courses series named `NanosciencesTech' supported by the VI Framework Programme of the European Community, by
Sequence-specific recognition of DNA nanostructures.
Rusling, David A; Fox, Keith R
DNA is the most exploited biopolymer for the programmed self-assembly of objects and devices that exhibit nanoscale-sized features. One of the most useful properties of DNA nanostructures is their ability to be functionalized with additional non-nucleic acid components. The introduction of such a component is often achieved by attaching it to an oligonucleotide that is part of the nanostructure, or hybridizing it to single-stranded overhangs that extend beyond or above the nanostructure surface. However, restrictions in nanostructure design and/or the self-assembly process can limit the suitability of these procedures. An alternative strategy is to couple the component to a DNA recognition agent that is capable of binding to duplex sequences within the nanostructure. This offers the advantage that it requires little, if any, alteration to the nanostructure and can be achieved after structure assembly. In addition, since the molecular recognition of DNA can be controlled by varying pH and ionic conditions, such systems offer tunable properties that are distinct from simple Watson-Crick hybridization. Here, we describe methodology that has been used to exploit and characterize the sequence-specific recognition of DNA nanostructures, with the aim of generating functional assemblies for bionanotechnology and synthetic biology applications.
Optical design including characteristics of manufactured nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wächter, Christoph; Müller, Martin; Förster, Erik; Oliva, Maria; Michaelis, Dirk
Micro- and nanostructures enable specific optical functionalities, which rely on diffractive effects or effective medium features, depending on pattern dimension and wavelength. Performance predictions of optical systems which make use of nanostructured materials require having an accurate description of these materials ready to hand within the optical design. At the one hand, nanostructure characteristics which result from rigorous electromagnetic modeling can be used for the optical design. At the other hand, manufactured nanostructures may deviate from their idealized geometry, which will affect the performance of the optical system, wherein these artificial structures will be used. Thus, detailed optical characterization of the micro- or nanostructure functionality is prerequisite for accurate optical design and performance prediction. To this end, several characterization techniques can be applied depending on the scope of the optical design, finally. We report on a general route to include all accessible and required optical information about the nanostructured material within a corresponding model of the nanostructure as a specific optical component which can be used within a ray-trace engine, finally. This is illustrated by a meta-material with asymmetric transmission properties in some more detail.
Stacked mechanical nanogenerator comprising piezoelectric semiconducting nanostructures and Schottky conductive contacts
Wang, Zhong L.; Xu, Sheng
An electric power generator includes a first conductive layer, a plurality of semiconducting piezoelectric nanostructures, a second conductive layer and a plurality of conductive nanostructures. The first conductive layer has a first surface from which the semiconducting piezoelectric nanostructures extend. The second conductive layer has a second surface and is parallel to the first conductive layer so that the second surface faces the first surface of the first conductive layer. The conductive nanostructures depend downwardly therefrom. The second conductive layer is spaced apart from the first conductive layer at a distance so that when a force is applied, the semiconducting piezoelectric nanostructures engage the conductive nanostructures so that the piezoelectric nanostructures bend, thereby generating a potential difference across the at semiconducting piezoelectric nanostructures and also thereby forming a Schottky barrier between the semiconducting piezoelectric nanostructures and the conductive nanostructures.
Metallic Nanostructures Based on DNA Nanoshapes
Shen, Boxuan; Tapio, Kosti; Linko, Veikko; Kostiainen, Mauri A.; Toppari, Jari Jussi
Metallic nanostructures have inspired extensive research over several decades, particularly within the field of nanoelectronics and increasingly in plasmonics. Due to the limitations of conventional lithography methods, the development of bottom-up fabricated metallic nanostructures has become more and more in demand. The remarkable development of DNA-based nanostructures has provided many successful methods and realizations for these needs, such as chemical DNA metallization via seeding or ionization, as well as DNA-guided lithography and casting of metallic nanoparticles by DNA molds. These methods offer high resolution, versatility and throughput and could enable the fabrication of arbitrarily-shaped structures with a 10-nm feature size, thus bringing novel applications into view. In this review, we cover the evolution of DNA-based metallic nanostructures, starting from the metallized double-stranded DNA for electronics and progress to sophisticated plasmonic structures based on DNA origami objects. PMID:28335274
Effects of organic ligands, electrostatic and magnetic interactions in formation of colloidal and interfacial inorganic nanostructures.
Khomutov, G B; Koksharov, Yu A
This paper discusses effects of organic ligands, electrostatic and magnetic interactions involved in morphological control of chemically synthesized inorganic nanostructures including colloid and planar systems. The special attention was concentrated on noble metal (gold and palladium) nanoparticles and nanostructures formed at the gas-liquid interface. The analysis of experimental data showed that electrostatic and ligand-related interactions influence very strongly on the metal nanostructure morphology. The hydrophobicity of ligand, charge and binding affinity to inorganic phase are important factors influencing the morphology of inorganic nanostructures formed in a layer at the gas/liquid interface by the interfacial synthesis method. The important point of this method is the quasi two-dimensional character of reaction area and possibilities to realize ultimately thin and anisotropic dynamic monomolecular reaction system with two-dimensional diffusion and interactions of precursors, intermediates and ligands resulting in planar growth and organization of inorganic nanoparticles and nanostructures in the plain of Langmuir monolayer. The morphology of resulting inorganic nanostructures can be controlled efficiently by variations of growth conditions via changes in state and composition of interfacial planar reaction media with the same precursor, and by variations of composition of adjacent bulk phases. The extreme anisotropy and heterogeneity of two-dimensional interfacial reaction system allows creating conditions when growing inorganic particles floating on the aqueous phase surface interact selectively with hydrophobic water-insoluble ligands in interfacial monolayer or with hydrophilic bulk-phase ligands, or at the same time with ligands of different nature present in monolayer and in aqueous phase. The spatial anisotropy of interfacial reaction system and non-homogeneity of ligand binding to inorganic phase gives possibilities for growth of integrated
Nanostructured Block Copolymer Solutions and Composites: Mechanical and Structural Properties
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Walker, Lynn
Self-assembled block copolymer templates are used to control the nanoscale structure of materials that would not otherwise order in solution. In this work, we have developed a technique to use close-packed cubic and cylindrical mesophases of a thermoreversible block copolymer (PEO-PPO-PEO) to impart spatial order on dispersed nanoparticles. The thermoreversible nature of the template allows for the dispersion of particles synthesized outside the template. This feature extends the applicability of this templating method to many particle-polymer systems, including proteins, and also permits a systematic evaluation of the impact of design parameters on the structure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. The criteria for forming co-crystals have been characterized using small-angle scatting and the mechanical properties of these soft crystals determined. Numerous crystal structures have been reported for the block copolymer system and we have taken advantage of several to generate soft co-crystals. The result of this templating is spatially ordered nanoparticle arrays embedded within the block copolymer nanostructure. These soft materials can be shear aligned into crystals with long range order and this shear alignment is discussed. Finally, the dynamics of nanoparticles within the nanostructured material are characterized with fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). The applications and general behavior of these nanostructured hydrogels are outlined.
Laser Fabricated Nanostructures on Vanadium Foils
Farkas, B.; Fuele, M.; Nanai, L.; Balint, A. M.
In this work we present our results concerning to the nanostructure generation on vanadium surfaces by ultrashort pulsed laser irradiation. The melting free formation of these structures is very important in many fields of science and industry too. We obtain that the nanostructure forming process on vanadium surface is Stransky Krastanov type. The surface covering and the nano-tower shape are depending on the ambient of the laser matter reaction.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Singh, Rina; Soni, R. K.
Bimetallic and trimetallic nanoparticles have attracted significant attention in recent times due to their enhanced electrochemical and catalytic properties compared to monometallic nanoparticles. The numerical calculations using Mie theory has been carried out for three-layered metal nanoshell dielectric-metal-metal (DMM) system consisting of a particle with a dielectric core (Al@Al2O3), a middle metal Ag (Au) layer and an outer metal Au (Ag) shell. The results have been interpreted using plasmon hybridization theory. We have also prepared Al@Al2O3@Ag@Au and Al@Al2O3@AgAu triple-layered core-shell or alloy nanostructure by two-step laser ablation method and compared with calculated results. The synthesis involves temporal separations of Al, Ag, and Au deposition for step-by-step formation of triple-layered core-shell structure. To form Al@Ag nanoparticles, we ablated silver for 40 min in aluminium nanoparticle colloidal solution. As aluminium oxidizes easily in water to form alumina, the resulting structure is core-shell Al@Al2O3. The Al@Al2O3 particle acts as a seed for the incoming energetic silver particles for multilayered Al@Al2O3@Ag nanoparticles is formed. The silver target was then replaced by gold target and ablation was carried out for different ablation time using different laser energy for generation of Al@Al2O3@Ag@Au core-shell or Al@Al2O3@AgAu alloy. The formation of core-shell and alloy nanostructure was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy. The absorption spectra show shift in plasmon resonance peak of silver to gold in the range 400-520 nm with increasing ablation time suggesting formation of Ag-Au alloy in the presence of alumina particles in the solution.
Sub-Tg features of glasses formed by cooling glycerol under pressure - Additional incompatibility of vibrational with configurational states in the depressurized, high density glass
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Andersson, Ove; Johari, G. P.
The vibrational state of a glass is naturally incompatible with its configurational state, which makes the glass structurally unstable. When a glass is kept at constant temperature, both the vibrational and configurational states of a glass change with time until it becomes metastable (equilibrium) liquid and the two states become compatible. The process, known as structural relaxation, occurs at a progressively higher rate during heating, and the properties of a glass change accordingly. We add to this incompatibility by depressurizing a glass that had been formed by cooling a liquid under a high pressure, p, and then investigate the effects of the added incompatibility by studying thermal conductivity, κ , and the heat capacity per unit volume ρ Cp of the depressurized glass. We use glycerol for the purpose and study first the changes in the features of κ and of ρ Cp during glass formation on cooling under a set of different p. We then partially depressurize the glass and study the effect of the p-induced instability on the features of κ and ρ Cp as the glass is isobarically heated to the liquid state. At a given low p, the glass configuration that was formed by cooling at high-p had a higher κ than the glass configuration that was formed by cooling at a low p. The difference is more when the glass is formed at a higher p and/or is depressurized to a lower p. On heating at a low p, its κ decreases before its glass-liquid transition range is reached. The effect is the opposite of the increase in κ observed on heating a glass at the same p under which it was formed. It is caused by thermally assisted loss of the added incompatibility of configurational and vibrational states of a high-p formed glass kept at low p. If a glass formed under a low-p is pressurized and then heated under high p, it would show the opposite effect, i.e., its κ would first increase to its high p value before its glass-to-liquid transition range.
Versatile pattern generation of periodic, high aspect ratio Si nanostructure arrays with sub-50-nm resolution on a wafer scale
We report on a method of fabricating variable patterns of periodic, high aspect ratio silicon nanostructures with sub-50-nm resolution on a wafer scale. The approach marries step-and-repeat nanoimprint lithography (NIL) and metal-catalyzed electroless etching (MCEE), enabling near perfectly ordered Si nanostructure arrays of user-defined patterns to be controllably and rapidly generated on a wafer scale. Periodic features possessing circular, hexagonal, and rectangular cross-sections with lateral dimensions down to sub-50 nm, in hexagonal or square array configurations and high array packing densities up to 5.13 × 107 structures/mm2 not achievable by conventional UV photolithography are fabricated using this top-down approach. By suitably tuning the duration of catalytic etching, variable aspect ratio Si nanostructures can be formed. As the etched Si pattern depends largely on the NIL mould which is patterned by electron beam lithography (EBL), the technique can be used to form patterns not possible with self-assembly methods, nanosphere, and interference lithography for replication on a wafer scale. Good chemical resistance of the nanoimprinted mask and adhesion to the Si substrate facilitate good pattern transfer and preserve the smooth top surface morphology of the Si nanostructures as shown in TEM. This approach is suitable for generating Si nanostructures of controlled dimensions and patterns, with high aspect ratio on a wafer level suitable for semiconductor device production. PMID:24289275
The influence of silver nanostructures formed in situ in silica sol-gel derived films on the rate of Förster resonance energy transfer.
Holmes-Smith, A Sheila; McDowell, Gary R; Toury, Marion; McLoskey, David; Hungerford, Graham
The efficiency of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) can be enhanced in the presence of a metal. Herein, we demonstrate the increased efficiency for a novel model sensor system where FRET is shown to occur between Rhodamine 6G in the bulk sol-gel matrix and Texas Red, which is held a fixed distance away by covalent attachment onto a silane spacer. Silver colloids are formed using light to initiate the reduction of a silver salt, which can be achieved at controlled locations within the film. Both the fluorescence intensity and lifetime maps and analysis indicate that an enhanced FRET efficiency has been achieved in the presence of silver nanoparticles. An increase in efficiency of 1.2-1.5 times is demonstrated depending on the spacer used. The novelty of our approach lies in the method of silver-nanoparticle formation, which allows for the accurate positioning of the silver nanoparticles and hence selective fluorescence enhancement within a biocompatible host material. Our work gives a practical demonstration of metal-enhanced FRET and demonstrates the ability of such systems to be developed for molecular-recognition applications that could find use in lab-on-a-chip technologies.
Repairable, nanostructured biomimetic hydrogels
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Firestone, M.; Brombosz, S.; Grubjesic, S.
Proteins facilitate many key cellular processes, including signal recognition and energy transduction. The ability to harness this evolutionarily-optimized functionality could lead to the development of protein-based systems useful for advancing alternative energy storage and conversion. The future of protein-based, however, requires the development of materials that will stabilize, order and control the activity of the proteins. Recently we have developed a synthetic approach for the preparation of a durable biomimetic chemical hydrogel that can be reversibly swollen in water. The matrix has proven ideal for the stable encapsulation of both water- and membrane-soluble proteins. The material is composed of an aqueous dispersion of a diacrylate end-derivatized PEO-PPO-PEO macromer, a saturated phospholipid and a zwitterionic co-surfactant that self-assembles into a nanostructured physical gel at room temperature as determined by X-ray scattering. The addition of a water soluble PEGDA co-monomer and photoinitator does not alter the self-assembled structure and UV irradiation serves to crosslink the acrylate end groups on the macromer with the PEGDA forming a network within the aqueous domains as determined by FT-IR. More recently we have begun to incorporate reversible crosslinks employing Diels-Alder chemistry, allowing for the extraction and replacement of inactive proteins. The ability to replenish the materials with active, non-denatured forms of protein is an important step in advancing these materials for use in nanostructured devices This work was supported by the Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Sciences, USDoE under Contract No. DE-AC02-06CH11357.
Ultrahard magnetic nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sahota, P. K.; Liu, Y.; Skomski, R.; Manchanda, P.; Zhang, R.; Franchin, M.; Fangohr, H.; Hadjipanayis, G. C.; Kashyap, A.; Sellmyer, D. J.
The performance of hard-magnetic nanostructures is investigated by analyzing the size and geometry dependence of thin-film hysteresis loops. Compared to bulk magnets, weight and volume are much less important, but we find that the energy product remains the main figure of merit down to very small features sizes. However, hysteresis loops are much easier to control on small length scales, as epitomized by Fe-Co-Pt thin films with magnetizations of up to 1.78 T and coercivities of up to 2.52 T. Our numerical and analytical calculations show that the feature size and geometry have a big effect on the hysteresis loop. Layered soft regions, especially if they have a free surface, are more harmful to coercivity and energy product than spherical inclusions. In hard-soft nanocomposites, an additional complication is provided by the physical properties of the hard phases. For a given soft phase, the performance of a hard-soft composite is determined by the parameter (Ms - Mh)/Kh.
Nanostructured composite reinforced material
Seals, Roland D [Oak Ridge, TN; Ripley, Edward B [Knoxville, TN; Ludtka, Gerard M [Oak Ridge, TN
A family of materials wherein nanostructures and/or nanotubes are incorporated into a multi-component material arrangement, such as a metallic or ceramic alloy or composite/aggregate, producing a new material or metallic/ceramic alloy. The new material has significantly increased strength, up to several thousands of times normal and perhaps substantially more, as well as significantly decreased weight. The new materials may be manufactured into a component where the nanostructure or nanostructure reinforcement is incorporated into the bulk and/or matrix material, or as a coating where the nanostructure or nanostructure reinforcement is incorporated into the coating or surface of a "normal" substrate material. The nanostructures are incorporated into the material structure either randomly or aligned, within grains, or along or across grain boundaries.
Optical properties of chiral nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cecilia, Noguez; Román-Velázquez, Carlos E.; Garzón, Ignacio L.
We present a computational model to study the optical properties chiral nanostructures[1] . In this work the nanostructures of interest are composed by N atoms, where each one is represented by a polarizable point dipole located at theposition of the atom. We assume that the dipole located is characterized by a polarizability. The nanostructure is excited by a circularly polarized incident wave, such that, each dipole is subject to a total electric field due to: (i) the incident radiation field, plus (ii) the radiation field resulting from all of the other induced dipoles. Once we solve the complex-linear equations, the dipole moment on each atom in the cluster can be determined and we can find the extinction cross section of the whole nanoparticle. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra of chiral bare and thiol-passivated gold nanoclusters have been calculated within the dipole approximation. The calculated CD spectra show features that allow us to distinguish between clusters with different indexes of chirality. The main factor responsible of the differences in the CD lineshapes is the distribution of interatomic distances that characterize the chiral cluster geometry. These results provide theoretical support for the quantification of chirality and its measurement, using the CD lineshapes of chiral metal nanoclusters. [1] C. E. Roman-Velazquez, et al., J. of Phys. Chem. B (Letter) 107, 12035 (2003) This work has been partly supported by DGAPA-UNAM grants No. IN104201 and IN104402, and by CONACyT grant 36651-E.
Resonant electron tunneling and related charging phenomena in metal-oxide- p +-Si nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vexler, M. I.; Kareva, G. G.; Illarionov, Yu. Yu.; Grekhov, I. V.
The j- V characteristics of the Al/thermal or electrochemical SiO2(2-4 nm)/heavily doped p +-Si nanostructures operating as a resonant-tunneling diode were measured and theoretically analyzed. The characteristics have specific features in the form of current steps and peaks, which are caused by electron transport between the silicon valence band and metal through discrete levels of the quantum well formed by the p +-Si conduction band and SiO2/ p +-Si interface. Resonant tunneling through the surface state levels and the appearance of a charge near this interface under certain conditions are discussed.
Main clinical features of the three mapped autosomal recessive limb-girdle muscular dystrophies and estimated proportion of each form in 13 Brazilian families.
Passos-Bueno, M R; Moreira, E S; Marie, S K; Bashir, R; Vasquez, L; Love, D R; Vainzof, M; Iughetti, P; Oliveira, J R; Bakker, E; Strachan, T; Bushby, K; Zatz, M
Autosomal recessive limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (AR LGMD) represent a group of muscle diseases with a wide spectrum of clinical signs, varying from very severe to mild. Four different loci that when mutated cause the AR LGMD phenotype have been mapped or cloned or both: in two of them the linked families seem to have a relatively mild phenotype (LGMD2a and LGMD2b), in the third one the reported linked families show a more severe clinical course (LGMD2c), while mutations in the fourth locus may cause severe or mild phenotypes (LGMD2d). The relative proportion of each of these genetic forms among the LGMD families and whether there are other genes that when mutated cause this phenotype is unknown. The closest available informative markers for each of the mapped AR LGMD genes have been tested in 13 Brazilian families with at least three affected patients. The findings from the present report confirm non-allelic heterogeneity for LGMD and suggest that in our population about 33% of the LGMD families are caused by mutations in the 15q gene, 33% in the 2p gene, 17% by mutations in the adhalin gene, and less than 10% may be by mutations at the 13q locus. They also suggest that there is at least one other gene responsible for this phenotype. In addition, the main clinical features of the different forms are discussed. PMID:8929943
Conserved surface features form the double-stranded RNA binding site of non-structural protein 1 (NS1) from influenza A and B viruses.
Yin, Cuifeng; Khan, Javed A; Swapna, G V T; Ertekin, Asli; Krug, Robert M; Tong, Liang; Montelione, Gaetano T
Influenza A viruses cause a highly contagious respiratory disease in humans and are responsible for periodic widespread epidemics with high mortality rates. The influenza A virus NS1 protein (NS1A) plays a key role in countering host antiviral defense and in virulence. The 73-residue N-terminal domain of NS1A (NS1A-(1-73)) forms a symmetric homodimer with a unique six-helical chain fold. It binds canonical A-form double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Mutational inactivation of this dsRNA binding activity of NS1A highly attenuates virus replication. Here, we have characterized the unique structural features of the dsRNA binding surface of NS1A-(1-73) using NMR methods and describe the 2.1-A x-ray crystal structure of the corresponding dsRNA binding domain from human influenza B virus NS1B-(15-93). These results identify conserved dsRNA binding surfaces on both NS1A-(1-73) and NS1B-(15-93) that are very different from those indicated in earlier "working models" of the complex between dsRNA and NS1A-(1-73). The combined NMR and crystallographic data reveal highly conserved surface tracks of basic and hydrophilic residues that interact with dsRNA. These tracks are structurally complementary to the polyphosphate backbone conformation of A-form dsRNA and run at an approximately 45 degrees angle relative to the axes of helices alpha2/alpha2'. At the center of this dsRNA binding epitope, and common to NS1 proteins from influenza A and B viruses, is a deep pocket that includes both hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids. This pocket provides a target on the surface of the NS1 protein that is potentially suitable for the development of antiviral drugs targeting both influenza A and B viruses.
Conserved Surface Features Form the Double-stranded RNA Binding Site of Non-structural Protein 1 (NS1) from Influenza A and B Viruses
Yin,C.; Khan, J.; Swapna, G.; Ertekin, A.; Krug, R.; Tong, L.; Montelione, G.
Influenza A viruses cause a highly contagious respiratory disease in humans and are responsible for periodic widespread epidemics with high mortality rates. The influenza A virus NS1 protein (NS1A) plays a key role in countering host antiviral defense and in virulence. The 73-residue N-terminal domain of NS1A (NS1A-(1-73)) forms a symmetric homodimer with a unique six-helical chain fold. It binds canonical A-form double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). Mutational inactivation of this dsRNA binding activity of NS1A highly attenuates virus replication. Here, we have characterized the unique structural features of the dsRNA binding surface of NS1A-(1-73) using NMR methods and describe the 2.1-{angstrom} x-ray crystal structure of the corresponding dsRNA binding domain from human influenza B virus NS1B-(15-93). These results identify conserved dsRNA binding surfaces on both NS1A-(1-73) and NS1B-(15-93) that are very different from those indicated in earlier 'working models' of the complex between dsRNA and NS1A-(1-73). The combined NMR and crystallographic data reveal highly conserved surface tracks of basic and hydrophilic residues that interact with dsRNA. These tracks are structurally complementary to the polyphosphate backbone conformation of A-form dsRNA and run at an {approx}45{sup o} angle relative to the axes of helices {alpha}2/{alpha}2'. At the center of this dsRNA binding epitope, and common to NS1 proteins from influenza A and B viruses, is a deep pocket that includes both hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids. This pocket provides a target on the surface of the NS1 protein that is potentially suitable for the development of antiviral drugs targeting both influenza A and B viruses.
Structural features underlying the selective cleavage of a novel exo-type maltose-forming amylase from Pyrococcus sp. ST04.
Park, Kwang-Hyun; Jung, Jong-Hyun; Park, Sung-Goo; Lee, Myeong-Eun; Holden, James F; Park, Cheon-Seok; Woo, Eui-Jeon
A novel maltose-forming α-amylase (PSMA) was recently found in the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus sp. ST04. This enzyme shows <13% amino-acid sequence identity to other known α-amylases and displays a unique enzymatic property in that it hydrolyzes both α-1,4-glucosidic and α-1,6-glucosidic linkages of substrates, recognizing only maltose units, in an exo-type manner. Here, the crystal structure of PSMA at a resolution of 1.8 Å is reported, showing a tight ring-shaped tetramer with monomers composed of two domains: an N-domain (amino acids 1-341) with a typical GH57 family (β/α)7-barrel fold and a C-domain (amino acids 342-597) composed of α-helical bundles. A small closed cavity observed in proximity to the catalytic residues Glu153 and Asp253 at the domain interface has the appropriate volume and geometry to bind a maltose unit, accounting for the selective exo-type maltose hydrolysis of the enzyme. A narrow gate at the putative subsite +1 formed by residue Phe218 and Phe452 is essential for specific cleavage of glucosidic bonds. The closed cavity at the active site is connected to a short substrate-binding channel that extends to the central hole of the tetramer, exhibiting a geometry that is significantly different from classical maltogenic amylases or β-amylases. The structural features of this novel exo-type maltose-forming α-amylase provide a molecular basis for its unique enzymatic characteristics and for its potential use in industrial applications and protein engineering.
Design principles for rapid folding of knotted DNA nanostructures.
Kočar, Vid; Schreck, John S; Čeru, Slavko; Gradišar, Helena; Bašić, Nino; Pisanski, Tomaž; Doye, Jonathan P K; Jerala, Roman
Knots are some of the most remarkable topological features in nature. Self-assembly of knotted polymers without breaking or forming covalent bonds is challenging, as the chain needs to be threaded through previously formed loops in an exactly defined order. Here we describe principles to guide the folding of highly knotted single-chain DNA nanostructures as demonstrated on a nano-sized square pyramid. Folding of knots is encoded by the arrangement of modules of different stability based on derived topological and kinetic rules. Among DNA designs composed of the same modules and encoding the same topology, only the one with the folding pathway designed according to the 'free-end' rule folds efficiently into the target structure. Besides high folding yield on slow annealing, this design also folds rapidly on temperature quenching and dilution from chemical denaturant. This strategy could be used to design folding of other knotted programmable polymers such as RNA or proteins.
To the understanding of the formation of the droplet-epitaxial III-V based nanostructures
Nemcsics, Ákos
In this work, we discuss the evolution of the self-assembling III-V based nanostructures. These nano-structures were prepared by droplet epitaxial technique. The different nanostructures such as quantum dot, quantum ring, double quantum ring, or nanohole form similarly from an initial Ga droplet but under different substrate temperature and various arsenic pressures. Started from few atomic courses, we give here a qualitative description of the key processes for all of the aforementioned nanostructures.
Tan, Zhenquan; Abe, Hiroya; Sato, Kazuyoshi; Ohara, Satoshi; Chihara, Hiroki; Koike, Chiyoe; Kaneko, Kenji
Because interstellar dust is closely related to the evolution of matter in the galactic environment and many other astrophysical phenomena, the laboratory synthesis of interstellar dust analogs has received significant attention over the past decade. To simulate the ultraviolet (UV) interstellar extinction feature at 217.5 nm originating from carbonaceous interstellar dust, many reports focused on the UV absorption properties of laboratory-synthesized interstellar dust analogs. However, no general relation has been established between UV interstellar extinction and artificial interstellar dust analogs. Here, we show that defective carbon nanostructures prepared by high-energy collisions exhibit a UV absorption feature at 220 nm which we suggest accounts for the UV interstellar extinction at 217.5 nm. The morphology of some carbon nanostructures is similar to that of nanocarbons discovered in the Allende meteorite. The similarity between the absorption feature of the defective carbon nanostructures and UV interstellar extinction indicates a strong correlation between the defective carbon nanostructures and interstellar dust.
Analysing and Manipulating the Nanostructure of Geopolymers
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Provis, J. L.; Hajimohammadi, A.; Rees, C. A.; van Deventer, J. S. J.
Geopolymer concretes are currently being commercialised in Australia and elsewhere around the world, with a view towards enhancing the sustainability of the world's construction industry. The fundamental geopolymer binder is an aluminosilicate gel which displays key structural features on every length scale from Ångstroms up to centimetres, meaning that multiscale analysis is key to the development of a detailed understanding of geopolymer formation and performance. Here, we present results from investigations of geopolymer nanostructure, focusing on the use of infrared spectroscopy as an analytical tool. The effects of different combinations of precursors in geopolymer formation provides critical information, in particular with regard to the rate of reaction and its impact on the final distribution of elements and structures within the geopolymer binder. Formulations are designed so that the same composition is obtained by the use of precursors which release their constituent elements at very different rates under alkaline attack during geopolymerisation, and this provides essential information regarding the role of different elements in forming strong and durable geopolymer structures. Seeding the geopolymer mixture with very low doses of oxide nanoparticles presents several unexpected effects, both in terms of reaction kinetics and also in altering the nature of the zeolitic crystallites formed within the predominantly X-ray amorphous geopolymer binder.
Nanostructured Protective Coatings
potential superior wear resistance properties. The Nanostructured Protective Coatings (NPC) program was designed to establish a collaborative team of...understanding of PVD parameters, depositing coatings on practical substrates such as the Ti6Al4V used for turbine blades , and developing a versatile...Nanostructured Protective Coatings (NPC) program was designed to establish a collaborative team of three entities (Pennsylvania State University
Silicon nanostructures for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Peng, Fei; Cao, Zhaohui; Ji, Xiaoyuan; Chu, Binbin; Su, Yuanyuan; He, Yao
The emergence of nanotechnology suggests new and exciting opportunities for early diagnosis and therapy of cancer. During the recent years, silicon-based nanomaterials featuring unique properties have received great attention, showing high promise for myriad biological and biomedical applications. In this review, we will particularly summarize latest representative achievements on the development of silicon nanostructures as a powerful platform for cancer early diagnosis and therapy. First, we introduce the silicon nanomaterial-based biosensors for detecting cancer markers (e.g., proteins, tumor-suppressor genes and telomerase activity, among others) with high sensitivity and selectivity under molecular level. Then, we summarize in vitro and in vivo applications of silicon nanostructures as efficient nanoagents for cancer therapy. Finally, we discuss the future perspective of silicon nanostructures for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Vibron and phonon hybridization in dielectric nanostructures.
Preston, Thomas C; Signorell, Ruth
Plasmon hybridization theory has been an invaluable tool in advancing our understanding of the optical properties of metallic nanostructures. Through the prism of molecular orbital theory, it allows one to interpret complex structures as "plasmonic molecules" and easily predict and engineer their electromagnetic response. However, this formalism is limited to conducting particles. Here, we present a hybridization scheme for the external and internal vibrations of dielectric nanostructures that provides a straightforward understanding of the infrared signatures of these particles through analogy to existing hybridization models of both molecular orbitals and plasmons extending the range of applications far beyond metallic nanostructures. This method not only provides a qualitative understanding, but also allows for the quantitative prediction of vibrational spectra of complex nanoobjects from well-known spectra of their primitive building blocks. The examples of nanoshells illustrate how spectral features can be understood in terms of symmetry, number of nodal planes, and scale parameters.
Multifunctional nanostructured materials for multimodal cancer imaging and therapy.
Liao, Jinfeng; Qi, Tingting; Chu, Bingyang; Peng, Jinrong; Luo, Feng; Qian, Zhiyong
This paper reviews the recent research and development of multifunctional nanostructured materials for multimodal imaging and therapy. The biomedical applications for multifunctional imaging, diagnosis and therapy are discussed for several nanostructured materials such as polymeric nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, gold nanomaterials, carbon materials, quantum dots and silica nanoparticles. Due to the unique features of nanostructured materials including the large surface area, structural diversity, multifunctionality, and long circulation time in blood, these materials have emerged as attractive preferences for optimized therapy. Multimodal imaging can be introduced to nanostructured materials for precise and fast diagnosis of cancer, which overcomes the shortcoming of single-imaging modality. Meanwhile, nanostructured materials can be also used to deliver therapeutic agents to the disease site in order to accomplish multimodal imaging and simultaneous diagnosis and therapy.
Computer-Aided Production of Scaffolded DNA Nanostructures from Flat Sheet Meshes.
Benson, Erik; Mohammed, Abdulmelik; Bosco, Alessandro; Teixeira, Ana I; Orponen, Pekka; Högberg, Björn
The use of DNA as a nanoscale construction material has been a rapidly developing field since the 1980s, in particular since the introduction of scaffolded DNA origami in 2006. Although software is available for DNA origami design, the user is generally limited to architectures where finding the scaffold path through the object is trivial. Herein, we demonstrate the automated conversion of arbitrary two-dimensional sheets in the form of digital meshes into scaffolded DNA nanostructures. We investigate the properties of DNA meshes based on three different internal frameworks in standard folding buffer and physiological salt buffers. We then employ the triangulated internal framework and produce four 2D structures with complex outlines and internal features. We demonstrate that this highly automated technique is capable of producing complex DNA nanostructures that fold with high yield to their programmed configurations, covering around 70 % more surface area than classic origami flat sheets.
Nanostructural Characteristics of Vacuum Cold-Sprayed Hydroxyapatite/Graphene-Nanosheet Coatings for Biomedical Applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Liu, Yi; Huang, Jing; Li, Hua
Development of novel biocompatible nanomaterials has provided insights into their potential biomedical applications. Bulk fabrication of the nanomaterials in the form of coatings remains challenging. Here, we report hydroxyapatite (HA)/graphene-nanosheet (GN) composite coatings deposited by vacuum cold spray (VCS). Significant shape changes of HA nanograins during the coating deposition were revealed. The nanostructural features of HA together with curvature alternation of GN gave rise to dense structures. Based on the microstructural characterization, a structure model was proposed to elucidate the nanostructural characteristics of the HA-GN nanocomposites. Results also showed that addition of GN significantly enhanced fracture toughness and elastic modulus of the HA-based coatings, which is presumably accounted for by crack bridging offered by GN in the composites. The VCS HA-GN coatings show potential for biomedical applications for the repair or replacement of hard tissues.
Focused ion beam lithography for fabrication of suspended nanostructures on highly corrugated surfaces.
Erdmanis, M; Sievilä, P; Shah, A; Chekurov, N; Ovchinnikov, V; Tittonen, I
We propose a nanofabrication method that allows for patterning on extremely corrugated surfaces with micrometer-size features. The technique employs focused ion beam nanopatterning of ion-sensitive inorganic resists formed by atomic layer deposition at low temperature. The nanoscale resolution on corrugated surfaces is ensured by inherently large depth of focus of a focused ion beam system and very uniform resist coating. The utilized TiO₂ and Al₂O₃ resists show high selectivity in deep reactive ion etching and enable the release of suspended nanostructures by dry etching. We demonstrate the great flexibility of the process by fabricating suspended nanostructures on flat surfaces, inclined walls, and on the bottom of deep grooves.
Mueller matrix imaging ellipsometry for nanostructure metrology.
Liu, Shiyuan; Du, Weichao; Chen, Xiuguo; Jiang, Hao; Zhang, Chuanwei
In order to achieve effective process control, fast, inexpensive, nondestructive and reliable nanometer scale feature measurements are extremely useful in high-volume nanomanufacturing. Among the possible techniques, optical scatterometry is relatively ideal due to its high throughput, low cost, and minimal sample damage. However, this technique is inherently limited by the illumination spot size of the instrument and the low efficiency in construction of a map of the sample over a wide area. Aiming at these issues, we introduce conventional imaging techniques to optical scatterometry and combine them with Mueller matrix ellipsometry based scatterometry, which is expected to be a powerful tool for the measurement of nanostructures in future high-volume nanomanufacturing, and propose to apply Mueller matrix imaging ellipsometry (MMIE) for nanostructure metrology. Two kinds of nanostructures were measured using an in-house developed Mueller matrix imaging ellipsometer in this work. The experimental results demonstrate that we can achieve Mueller matrix measurement and analysis for nanostructures with pixel-sized illumination spots by using MMIE. We can also efficiently construct parameter maps of the nanostructures over a wide area with pixel-sized lateral resolution by performing parallel ellipsometric analysis for all the pixels of interest.
Integration of nanostructured titania into microsystems
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Abu Samah, Zuruzi
This thesis describes research on a novel process to fabricate integrated nanostructured titanic (NST) features as functional components in microsystems devices. NST features were formed by oxidizing Ti films in aqueous hydrogen peroxide followed by thermal annealing. The oxidation kinetics and properties of NST formed were investigated. The process developed is compatible with current microelectronics manufacturing practices for Si and plastic substrates. Amorphous hydrated titanic gels form when hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2) reacts with Ti. Oxidation of a blanket (unpatterned) Ti surface with hydrogen peroxide results in a titanic layer with high crack density. In this study, NST was formed by reacting pre-patterned Ti thin films with H2O2 solution. Crack elimination was achieved when exposed Ti films were below a threshold dimension. Hydrated titanic gel crystallizes into anatase after annealing at 300°C for 8 hr. Crack elimination is thought to result from stress reduction in titanic gels due to patterning. Oxidation of Ti films occurs by nucleation and growth mechanism. During growth, oxidation of Ti films with thickness 50 nm and below proceeds at a constant rate until films are fully consumed. For Ti films with thickness 100 nm or thicker oxidation rate reduces significantly after a period of growth. This reduction is attributed to a change in mechanism controlling growth of the hydrated titania gel layer. Functionality of NST formed and compatibility of the process with current microelectronics manufacturing practices were demonstrated by exploring three applications. First, a prototype conductometric gas sensor was fabricated that used micrometer-scale NST pad arrays as sensing elements. This sensor is capable of detecting hydrogen and oxygen gas at concentration of a few parts per million (ppm). Second, micrometer scale Au-NST interpenetrating network nanocomposite contacts in micro-switches were fabricated by infiltrating NST features with Au using
Nanostructured scaffolds for neural applications.
Seidlits, Stephanie K; Lee, Jae Y; Schmidt, Christine E
This review discusses the design of scaffolds having submicron and nanoscale features for neural-engineering applications. In particular, the goal is to create materials that can interface more intimately with individual neuronal cells, within both living tissues and in culture, by better mimicking the native extracellular environment. Scaffolds with nanoscale features have the potential to improve the specificity and accuracy of materials for a number of neural-engineering applications, ranging from neural probes for Parkinson's patients to guidance scaffolds for axonal regeneration in patients with traumatic nerve injuries. This review will highlight several techniques that are used to create nanostructured scaffolds, such as photolithography to create grooves for neurite guidance, electrospinning of fibrous matrices, self-assembly of 3D scaffolds from designer peptides and fabrication of conductive nanoscale materials. Most importantly, this review focuses on the effects of incorporating nanoscale architectures into these materials on neuronal and glial cell growth and function.
Experimental Study of Water Droplet Vaporization on Nanostructured Surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Padilla, Jorge, Jr.
This dissertation summarizes results of an experimental exploration of heat transfer during vaporization of a water droplet deposited on a nanostructured surface at a temperature approaching and exceeding the Leidenfrost point for the surface and at lower surface temperatures 10-40 degrees C above the saturated temperature of the water droplet at approximately 101 kPa. The results of these experiments were compared to those performed on bare smooth copper and aluminum surfaces in this and other studies. The nanostructured surfaces were composed of a vast array of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals grown by hydrothermal synthesis on a smooth copper substrate having an average surface roughness of approximately 0.06 micrometer. Various nanostructured surface array geometries were produced on the copper substrate by performing the hydrothermal synthesis for 4, 10 and 24 hours. The individual nanostructures were randomly-oriented and, depending on hydrothermal synthesis time, had a mean diameter of about 500-700 nm, a mean length of 1.7-3.3 micrometers,and porosities of approximately 0.04-0.58. Surface wetting was characterized by macroscopic measurements of contact angle based on the droplet profile and calculations based on measurements of liquid film spread area. Scanning electron microscope imaging was used to document the nanoscale features of the surface before and after the experiments. The nanostructured surfaces grown by hydrothermal synthesis for 4 and 24 hours exhibited contact angles of approximately 10, whereas the surfaces grown for 10 hours were superhydrophilic, exhibiting contact angles typically less than 3 degrees. In single droplet deposition experiments at 101 kPa, a high-speed video camera was used to document the droplet-surface interaction. Distilled and degassed water droplets ranging in size from 2.5-4.0 mm were deposited onto the surface from heights ranging from approximately 0.2-8.1 cm, such that Weber numbers spanned a range of approximately 0
Measuring Strong Nanostructures
Andy Minor
Andy Minor of Berkeley Lab's National Center for Electron Microscopy explains measuring stress and strain on nanostructures with the In Situ Microscope. More information: http://newscenter.lbl.gov/press-relea...
Measuring Strong Nanostructures
Andy Minor
Andy Minor of Berkeley Lab's National Center for Electron Microscopy explains measuring stress and strain on nanostructures with the In Situ Microscope. More information: http://newscenter.lbl.gov/press-relea...
Nanostructured Carbon Coatings
carbon coatings and explores a very broad range of potentially important carbon nanostructures that may be used in future technologies. A new method ...for the synthesis of nanostructured carbon coatings on the surface of SiC and other metal carbides is described. This method is accomplished through the...With the fall in cost of fullerene powders, this method may become important in the future as a method to produce nanocrystalline diamond free of metal
Nanostructuring of PEG-fibrinogen polymeric scaffolds.
Frisman, Ilya; Seliktar, Dror; Bianco-Peled, Havazelet
Recent studies have shown that nanostructuring of scaffolds for tissue engineering has a major impact on their interactions with cells. The current investigation focuses on nanostructuring of a biocompatible, biosynthetic polymeric hydrogel scaffold made from crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol)-fibrinogen conjugates. Nanostructuring was achieved by the addition of the block copolymer Pluronic F127, which self-assembles into nanometric micelles at certain concentrations and temperatures. Cryo-transmission electron microscopy experiments detected F127 micelles, both embedded within PEGylated fibrinogen hydrogels and in solution. The density of the F127 micelles, as well as their ordering, increased with increasing block copolymer concentration. The mechanical properties of the nanostructured hydrogels were investigated using stress-sweep rheological testing. These tests revealed a correlation between the block copolymer concentration and the storage modulus of the composite hydrogels. In vitro cellular assays confirmed that the increased modulus of the hydrogels did not limit the ability of the cells to form extensions and become spindled within the three-dimensional (3-D) hydrogel culture environment. Thus, altering the nanostructure of the hydrogel may be used as a strategy to control cellular behavior in 3-D through changes in mechanical properties of the environment.
Light management for photovoltaics using high-index nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Brongersma, Mark L.; Cui, Yi; Fan, Shanhui
High-performance photovoltaic cells use semiconductors to convert sunlight into clean electrical power, and transparent dielectrics or conductive oxides as antireflection coatings. A common feature of these materials is their high refractive index. Whereas high-index materials in a planar form tend to produce a strong, undesired reflection of sunlight, high-index nanostructures afford new ways to manipulate light at a subwavelength scale. For example, nanoscale wires, particles and voids support strong optical resonances that can enhance and effectively control light absorption and scattering processes. As such, they provide ideal building blocks for novel, broadband antireflection coatings, light-trapping layers and super-absorbing films. This Review discusses some of the recent developments in the design and implementation of such photonic elements in thin-film photovoltaic cells.
A Novel Nanofabrication Technique of Silicon-Based Nanostructures.
Meng, Lingkuan; He, Xiaobin; Gao, Jianfeng; Li, Junjie; Wei, Yayi; Yan, Jiang
A novel nanofabrication technique which can produce highly controlled silicon-based nanostructures in wafer scale has been proposed using a simple amorphous silicon (α-Si) material as an etch mask. SiO2 nanostructures directly fabricated can serve as nanotemplates to transfer into the underlying substrates such as silicon, germanium, transistor gate, or other dielectric materials to form electrically functional nanostructures and devices. In this paper, two typical silicon-based nanostructures such as nanoline and nanofin have been successfully fabricated by this technique, demonstrating excellent etch performance. In addition, silicon nanostructures fabricated above can be further trimmed to less than 10 nm by combing with assisted post-treatment methods. The novel nanofabrication technique will be expected a new emerging technology with low process complexity and good compatibility with existing silicon integrated circuit and is an important step towards the easy fabrication of a wide variety of nanoelectronics, biosensors, and optoelectronic devices.
Shape-Controlled Growth of Carbon Nanostructures: Yield and Mechanism.
Ma, Yao; Sun, Xiao; Yang, Nianjun; Xia, Junhai; Zhang, Lei; Jiang, Xin
Carbon nanostructures with precisely controlled shapes are difficult materials to synthesize. A facet-selective-catalytic process was thus proposed to synthesize polymer-linked carbon nanostructures with different shapes, covering straight carbon nanofiber, carbon nano Y-junction, carbon nano-hexapus, and carbon nano-octopus. A thermal chemical vapor deposition process was applied to grow these multi-branched carbon nanostructures at temperatures lower than 350 °C. Cu nanoparticles were utilized as the catalyst and acetylene as the reaction gas. The growth of those multi-branched nanostructures was realized through the selective growth of polymer-like sheets on certain indexed facets of Cu catalyst. The vapor-facet-solid (VFS) mechanism, a new growth mode, has been proposed to interpret such a growth in the steps of formation, diffusion, and coupling of carbon-containing oligomers, as well as their final precipitation to form nanostructures on the selective Cu facets.
A Novel Nanofabrication Technique of Silicon-Based Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Meng, Lingkuan; He, Xiaobin; Gao, Jianfeng; Li, Junjie; Wei, Yayi; Yan, Jiang
A novel nanofabrication technique which can produce highly controlled silicon-based nanostructures in wafer scale has been proposed using a simple amorphous silicon (α-Si) material as an etch mask. SiO2 nanostructures directly fabricated can serve as nanotemplates to transfer into the underlying substrates such as silicon, germanium, transistor gate, or other dielectric materials to form electrically functional nanostructures and devices. In this paper, two typical silicon-based nanostructures such as nanoline and nanofin have been successfully fabricated by this technique, demonstrating excellent etch performance. In addition, silicon nanostructures fabricated above can be further trimmed to less than 10 nm by combing with assisted post-treatment methods. The novel nanofabrication technique will be expected a new emerging technology with low process complexity and good compatibility with existing silicon integrated circuit and is an important step towards the easy fabrication of a wide variety of nanoelectronics, biosensors, and optoelectronic devices.
Architectures for Nanostructured Batteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rubloff, Gary
Heterogeneous nanostructures offer profound opportunities for advancement in electrochemical energy storage, particularly with regard to power. However, their design and integration must balance ion transport, electron transport, and stability under charge/discharge cycling, involving fundamental physical, chemical and electrochemical mechanisms at nano length scales and across disparate time scales. In our group and in our DOE Energy Frontier Research Center (www.efrc.umd.edu) we have investigated single nanostructures and regular nanostructure arrays as batteries, electrochemical capacitors, and electrostatic capacitors to understand limiting mechanisms, using a variety of synthesis and characterization strategies. Primary lithiation pathways in heterogeneous nanostructures have been observed to include surface, interface, and both isotropic and anisotropic diffusion, depending on materials. Integrating current collection layers at the nano scale with active ion storage layers enhances power and can improve stability during cycling. For densely packed nanostructures as required for storage applications, we investigate both ``regular'' and ``random'' architectures consistent with transport requirements for spatial connectivity. Such configurations raise further important questions at the meso scale, such as dynamic ion and electron transport in narrow and tortuous channels, and the role of defect structures and their evolution during charge cycling. Supported as part of the Nanostructures for Electrical Energy Storage, an Energy Frontier Research Center funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences under Award Number DESC0001160
Interlocked DNA nanostructures controlled by a reversible logic circuit
Li, Tao; Lohmann, Finn; Famulok, Michael
DNA nanostructures constitute attractive devices for logic computing and nanomechanics. An emerging interest is to integrate these two fields and devise intelligent DNA nanorobots. Here we report a reversible logic circuit built on the programmable assembly of a double-stranded (ds) DNA [3]pseudocatenane that serves as a rigid scaffold to position two separate branched-out head-motifs, a bimolecular i-motif and a G-quadruplex. The G-quadruplex only forms when preceded by the assembly of the i-motif. The formation of the latter, in turn, requires acidic pH and unhindered mobility of the head-motif containing dsDNA nanorings with respect to the central ring to which they are interlocked, triggered by release oligodeoxynucleotides. We employ these features to convert the structural changes into Boolean operations with fluorescence labelling. The nanostructure behaves as a reversible logic circuit consisting of tandem YES and AND gates. Such reversible logic circuits integrated into functional nanodevices may guide future intelligent DNA nanorobots to manipulate cascade reactions in biological systems. PMID:25229207
Nanoscale growth and patterning of inorganic oxides using DNA nanostructure templates.
Surwade, Sumedh P; Zhou, Feng; Wei, Bryan; Sun, Wei; Powell, Anna; O'Donnell, Christina; Yin, Peng; Liu, Haitao
We describe a method to form custom-shaped inorganic oxide nanostructures by using DNA nanostructure templates. We show that a DNA nanostructure can modulate the rate of chemical vapor deposition of SiO2 and TiO2 with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. The resulting oxide nanostructure inherits its shape from the DNA template. This method generates both positive-tone and negative-tone patterns on a wide range of substrates and is compatible with conventional silicon nanofabrication processes. Our result opens the door to the use of DNA nanostructures as general-purpose templates for high-resolution nanofabrication.
Formation of silicon nanostructures with a combination of spacer technology and deep reactive ion etching
A new method of fabricating high aspect ratio nanostructures in silicon without the use of sub-micron lithographic technique is reported. The proposed method comprises two important steps including the use of CMOS spacer technique to form silicon nitride nanostructure masking followed by deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) of the silicon substrate to form the final silicon nanostructures. Silicon dioxide is used as the sacrificial layer to form the silicon nitride nanostructures. With DRIE a high etch selectivity of 50:1 between silicon and silicon nitride was achieved. The use of the spacer technique is particularly advantageous where self-aligned nanostructures with potentially unlimited lengths are formed without the need of submicron lithographic tools and resist materials. With this method, uniform arrays of 100 nm silicon nanostructures which are at least 4 μm tall with aspect ratio higher than 40 were successfully fabricated. PMID:22672745
Elongated nanostructures for radial junction solar cells
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kuang, Yinghuan; Di Vece, Marcel; Rath, Jatindra K.; van Dijk, Lourens; Schropp, Ruud E. I.
In solar cell technology, the current trend is to thin down the active absorber layer. The main advantage of a thinner absorber is primarily the reduced consumption of material and energy during production. For thin film silicon (Si) technology, thinning down the absorber layer is of particular interest since both the device throughput of vacuum deposition systems and the stability of the devices are significantly enhanced. These features lead to lower cost per installed watt peak for solar cells, provided that the (stabilized) efficiency is the same as for thicker devices. However, merely thinning down inevitably leads to a reduced light absorption. Therefore, advanced light trapping schemes are crucial to increase the light path length. The use of elongated nanostructures is a promising method for advanced light trapping. The enhanced optical performance originates from orthogonalization of the light's travel path with respect to the direction of carrier collection due to the radial junction, an improved anti-reflection effect thanks to the three-dimensional geometric configuration and the multiple scattering between individual nanostructures. These advantages potentially allow for high efficiency at a significantly reduced quantity and even at a reduced material quality, of the semiconductor material. In this article, several types of elongated nanostructures with the high potential to improve the device performance are reviewed. First, we briefly introduce the conventional solar cells with emphasis on thin film technology, following the most commonly used fabrication techniques for creating nanostructures with a high aspect ratio. Subsequently, several representative applications of elongated nanostructures, such as Si nanowires in realistic photovoltaic (PV) devices, are reviewed. Finally, the scientific challenges and an outlook for nanostructured PV devices are presented.
Elongated nanostructures for radial junction solar cells.
Kuang, Yinghuan; Vece, Marcel Di; Rath, Jatindra K; Dijk, Lourens van; Schropp, Ruud E I
In solar cell technology, the current trend is to thin down the active absorber layer. The main advantage of a thinner absorber is primarily the reduced consumption of material and energy during production. For thin film silicon (Si) technology, thinning down the absorber layer is of particular interest since both the device throughput of vacuum deposition systems and the stability of the devices are significantly enhanced. These features lead to lower cost per installed watt peak for solar cells, provided that the (stabilized) efficiency is the same as for thicker devices. However, merely thinning down inevitably leads to a reduced light absorption. Therefore, advanced light trapping schemes are crucial to increase the light path length. The use of elongated nanostructures is a promising method for advanced light trapping. The enhanced optical performance originates from orthogonalization of the light's travel path with respect to the direction of carrier collection due to the radial junction, an improved anti-reflection effect thanks to the three-dimensional geometric configuration and the multiple scattering between individual nanostructures. These advantages potentially allow for high efficiency at a significantly reduced quantity and even at a reduced material quality, of the semiconductor material. In this article, several types of elongated nanostructures with the high potential to improve the device performance are reviewed. First, we briefly introduce the conventional solar cells with emphasis on thin film technology, following the most commonly used fabrication techniques for creating nanostructures with a high aspect ratio. Subsequently, several representative applications of elongated nanostructures, such as Si nanowires in realistic photovoltaic (PV) devices, are reviewed. Finally, the scientific challenges and an outlook for nanostructured PV devices are presented.
IRAC Excess in Distant Star-Forming Galaxies: Tentative Evidence for the 3.3 μm Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Feature?
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Magnelli, B.; Chary, R. R.; Pope, A.; Elbaz, D.; Morrison, G.; Dickinson, M.
We present evidence for the existence of an IRAC excess in the spectral energy distribution (SED) of five galaxies at 0.6 < z < 0.9 and one galaxy at z = 1.7. These six galaxies, located in the Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey field (GOODS-N), are star-forming since they present strong 6.2, 7.7, and, 11.3 μm polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) lines in their Spitzer IRS mid-infrared spectra. We use a library of templates computed with PEGASE.2 to fit their multiwavelength photometry and derive their stellar continuum. Subtraction of the stellar continuum enables us to detect in five galaxies a significant excess in the IRAC band pass where the 3.3 μm PAH is expected (i.e., IRAC 5.8 μm for the range of redshifts considered here). We then assess if the physical origin of the IRAC excess is due to an obscured active galactic nucleus (AGN) or warm dust emission. For one galaxy evidence of an obscured AGN is found, while the remaining four do not exhibit any significant AGN activity. Possible contamination by warm dust continuum of unknown origin as found in the Galactic diffuse emission is discussed. The properties of such a continuum would have to be different from the local universe to explain the measured IRAC excess, but we cannot definitively rule out this possibility until its origin is understood. Assuming that the IRAC excess is dominated by the 3.3 μm PAH feature, we find good agreement with the observed 11.3 μm PAH line flux arising from the same C-H bending and stretching modes, consistent with model expectations. Finally, the IRAC excess appears to be correlated with the star formation rate in the galaxies. Hence it could provide a powerful diagnostic for measuring dusty star formation in z > 3 galaxies once the mid-infrared spectroscopic capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope become available.
Conductance fluctuations in nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhu, Ningjia
In this Ph.D thesis the conductance fluctuations of different physical origins in semi-conductor nanostructures were studied using both diagrammatic analytical methods and large scale numerical techniques. In the "mixed" transport regime where both mesoscopic and ballistic features play a role, for the first time I have analytically calculated the non-universal conductance fluctuations. This mixed regime is reached when impurities are distributed near the walls of a quantum wire, leaving the center region ballistic. I have discovered that the existence of a ballistic region destroys the universal conductance fluctuations. The crossover behavior of the fluctuation amplitude from the usual quasi-1D situation to that of the mixed regime is clearly revealed, and the role of various length scales are identified. My analytical predictions were confirmed by a direct numerical simulation by evaluating the Landauer formula. In another direction, I have made several studies of conductance or resistance oscillations and fluctuations in systems with artificial impurities in the ballistic regime. My calculation gave explanations of all the experimental results concerning the classical focusing peaks of the resistance versus magnetic field, the weak localization peak in a Sinai billiard system, the formation of a chaotic billiard, and predicted certain transport features which were indeed found experimentally. I have further extended the calculation to study the Hall resistance in a four-terminal quantum dot in which there is an antidot array. From my numerical data I analyzed the classical paths of electron motion and its quantum oscillations. The results compare well with recent experimental studies on similar systems. Since these billiard systems could provide quantum chaotic dynamics, I have made a detailed study of the consequence of such dynamics. In particular I have investigated the resonant transmission of electrons in these chaotic systems, and found that the level
Nanostructures having high performance thermoelectric properties
Yang, Peidong; Majumdar, Arunava; Hochbaum, Allon I; Chen, Renkun; Delgado, Raul Diaz
The invention provides for a nanostructure, or an array of such nanostructures, each comprising a rough surface, and a doped or undoped semiconductor. The nanostructure is an one-dimensional (1-D) nanostructure, such a nanowire, or a two-dimensional (2-D) nanostructure. The nanostructure can be placed between two electrodes and used for thermoelectric power generation or thermoelectric cooling.
Nanostructures having high performance thermoelectric properties
Yang, Peidong; Majumdar, Arunava; Hochbaum, Allon I.; Chen, Renkun; Delgado, Raul Diaz
The invention provides for a nanostructure, or an array of such nanostructures, each comprising a rough surface, and a doped or undoped semiconductor. The nanostructure is an one-dimensional (1-D) nanostructure, such a nanowire, or a two-dimensional (2-D) nanostructure. The nanostructure can be placed between two electrodes and used for thermoelectric power generation or thermoelectric cooling.
PSNO: predicting cysteine S-nitrosylation sites by incorporating various sequence-derived features into the general form of Chou's PseAAC.
Zhang, Jian; Zhao, Xiaowei; Sun, Pingping; Ma, Zhiqiang
S-nitrosylation (SNO) is one of the most universal reversible post-translational modifications involved in many biological processes. Malfunction or dysregulation of SNO leads to a series of severe diseases, such as developmental abnormalities and various diseases. Therefore, the identification of SNO sites (SNOs) provides insights into disease progression and drug development. In this paper, a new bioinformatics tool, named PSNO, is proposed to identify SNOs from protein sequences. Firstly, we explore various promising sequence-derived discriminative features, including the evolutionary profile, the predicted secondary structure and the physicochemical properties. Secondly, rather than simply combining the features, which may bring about information redundancy and unwanted noise, we use the relative entropy selection and incremental feature selection approach to select the optimal feature subsets. Thirdly, we train our model by the technique of the k-nearest neighbor algorithm. Using both informative features and an elaborate feature selection scheme, our method, PSNO, achieves good prediction performance with a mean Mathews correlation coefficient (MCC) value of about 0.5119 on the training dataset using 10-fold cross-validation. These results indicate that PSNO can be used as a competitive predictor among the state-of-the-art SNOs prediction tools. A web-server, named PSNO, which implements the proposed method, is freely available at http://18.104.22.168:8088/PSNO/.
Nanostructured biointerfacing of metals with carbon nanotube/chitosan hybrids by electrodeposition for cell stimulation and therapeutics delivery.
Patel, Kapil D; Kim, Tae-Hyun; Lee, Eun-Jung; Han, Cheol-Min; Lee, Ja-Yeon; Singh, Rajendra K; Kim, Hae-Won
Exploring the biological interfaces of metallic implants has been an important issue in achieving biofunctional success. Here we develop a biointerface with nanotopological features and bioactive composition, comprising a carbon nanotube (CNT) and chitosan (Chi) hybrid, via an electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The physicochemical properties, in vitro biocompatibility, and protein delivering capacity of the decorated nanohybrid layer were investigated, to address its potential usefulness as bone regenerating implants. Over a wide compositional range, the nanostructured hybrid interfaces were successfully formed with varying thicknesses, depending on the electrodeposition parameters. CNT-Chi hybrid interfaces showed a time-sequenced degradation in saline water, and a rapid induction of hydroxyapatite mineral in a simulated body fluid. The nanostructured hybrid substrates stimulated the initial adhesion events of the osteoblastic cells, including cell adhesion rate, spreading behaviors, and expression of adhesive proteins. The nanostructured hybrid interfaces significantly improved the adsorption of protein molecules, which was enabled by the surface charge interaction, and increased surface area of the nanotopology. Furthermore, the incorporated protein was released at a highly sustained rate, profiling a diffusion-controlled pattern over a couple of weeks, suggesting the possible usefulness as a protein delivery device. Collectively, the nanostructured hybrid CNT-Chi layer, implemented by an electrodeposition, is considered a biocompatible, cell-stimulating, and protein-delivering biointerface of metallic implants.
Controllable fabrication of copper phthalocyanine nanostructure crystals.
Liu, Fangmei; Sun, Jia; Xiao, Si; Huang, Wenglong; Tao, Shaohua; Zhang, Yi; Gao, Yongli; Yang, Junliang
Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanostructure crystals, including nanoflower, nanoribbon, and nanowire, were controllably fabricated by temperature gradient physical vapor deposition (TG-PVD) through controlling the growth parameters. In a controllable growth system with carrier gas N2, nanoflower, nanoribbon, and nanowire crystals were formed in a high-temperature zone, medium-temperature zone, and low-temperature zone, respectively. They were proved to be β-phase, coexist of α-phase and β-phase, and α-phase respectively based on x-ray diffraction results. Furthermore, ultralong CuPc nanowires up to several millimeters could be fabricated by TG-PVD without carrier gas, and they were well-aligned to form large-area CuPc nanowire crystal arrays by the Langmuir-Blodgett method. The nanostructure crystals showed unusual optical absorption spectra from the ultraviolet-visible to near-infrared range, which was explained by the diffraction and scattering caused by the wavelength-sized nanostructures. These CuPc nanostructure crystals show potential applications in organic electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Nanostructured materials in potentiometry.
Düzgün, Ali; Zelada-Guillén, Gustavo A; Crespo, Gastón A; Macho, Santiago; Riu, Jordi; Rius, F Xavier
Potentiometry is a very simple electrochemical technique with extraordinary analytical capabilities. It is also well known that nanostructured materials display properties which they do not show in the bulk phase. The combination of the two fields of potentiometry and nanomaterials is therefore a promising area of research and development. In this report, we explain the fundamentals of potentiometric devices that incorporate nanostructured materials and we highlight the advantages and drawbacks of combining nanomaterials and potentiometry. The paper provides an overview of the role of nanostructured materials in the two commonest potentiometric sensors: field-effect transistors and ion-selective electrodes. Additionally, we provide a few recent examples of new potentiometric sensors that are based on receptors immobilized directly onto the nanostructured material surface. Moreover, we summarize the use of potentiometry to analyze processes involving nanostructured materials and the prospects that the use of nanopores offer to potentiometry. Finally, we discuss several difficulties that currently hinder developments in the field and some future trends that will extend potentiometry into new analytical areas such as biology and medicine.
Characterization of Si Nanostructured Surfaces
Brueck, S.R.J.; Gee, James M.; Ruby, Douglas S.; Zaidi, Saleem H.
Surface texturing of Si to enhance absorption particularly in the IR spectral region has been extensively investigated. Previous research chiefly examined approaches based on geometrical optics. These surface textures typically consist of pyramids with dimensions much larger than optical wavelengths. We have investigated a physical optics approach that relies on surface texture features comparable to, or smaller than, the optical wavelengths inside the semiconductor material. Light interaction at this are strongly dependent on incident polarization and surface profile. Nanoscale textures can be tuned for either narrow band, or broad band absorptive behavior. Lowest broadband reflection has been observed for triangular profiles with linewidths significantly less than 100 nm. Si nanostructures have been integrated into large ({approximately}42 cm{sup 2}) area solar cells, Internal quantum efficiency measurements in comparison with polished and conventionally textured cells show lower efficiency in the UV-visible (350-680 mu), but significantly higher IR (700-1200 nm) efficiency.
Spectroscopy of Mars form 2.04 to 2.44 micron during the 1993 opposition: Absolute calibration and atmospheric vs mineralogic origin of narrow absorption features
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Bell, James F., III; Pollack, James B.; Geballe, Thomas R.; Cruikshank, Dale P.; Freedman, Richard
We present moderate-resolution (lambda/delta lambda = 300 to 370) reflectance spectral of Mars from 2.04 to 2.44 microns that were obtained at United Kingdom Infrared Telescope (UKIRT) during the 1993 opposition. Seven narrow absorption features were detected and found to have a Mars origin. By comparison with solar and Mars atmospheric spectra, five of these features were attributed all or in part to Mars atmospheric CO2 or CO (2.052 +/- 0.003, 2.114 +/- 0.002, 2.150 +/- 0.003, 2.331 +/- 0.001, and 2.357 +/- 0.002 microns). Two of the bands (2.331 +/- 0.001 and 2.357 +/- 0.002 micron) appear to have widths and depths that are consistent with additional, nonatmospheric absorptions, although a solar contribution cannot be entirely ruled out. Two other weak bands centered at 2.278 +/- 0.002 and 2.296 +/- 0.002 microns may be at least partially mineralogic in origin. The data provide no conclusive identification of the mineralogy responsible for these absorption features. However, examination of terrestrial spectral libraries and previous mineralogy responsible for these absorption features. However, examination of terrestrial spectral libraires and previous moderate spectral resolution mineral studies indicates that the most likely origin of these features is either (bi)carbonate or (bi)sulfate anions in framework silicates of (Fe, Mg)-OH bonds in sheet silicates. If the bands are caused by phyllosilicate minerals, then an explanation must be found for the extremely narrow widths of the cation-OH features in the Mars spectra as compared to terrestrial minerals.
Spectroscopy of Mars form 2.04 to 2.44 micron during the 1993 opposition: Absolute calibration and atmospheric VS mineralogic origin of narrow absorption features
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bell, James F., III; Pollack, James B.; Geballe, Thomas R.; Cruikshank, Dale P.; Freedman, Richard
We present moderate-resolution (lambda/delta lambda = 300 to 370) reflectance spectral of Mars from 2.04 to 2.44 microns that were obtained at United Kingdom Infrared Telescope (UKIRT) during the 1993 opposition. Seven narrow absorption features were detected and found to have a Mars origin. By comparison with solar and Mars atmospheric spectra, five of these features were attributed all or in part to Mars atmospheric CO2 or CO (2.052 +/- 0.003, 2.114 +/- 0.002, 2.150 +/- 0.003, 2.331 +/- 0.001, and 2.357 +/- 0.002 microns). Two of the bands (2.331 +/- 0.001 and 2.357 +/- 0.002 micron) appear to have widths and depths that are consistent with additional, nonatmospheric absorptions, although a solar contribution cannot be entirely ruled out. Two other weak bands centered at 2.278 +/- 0.002 and 2.296 +/- 0.002 microns may be at least partially mineralogic in origin. The data provide no conclusive identification of the mineralogy responsible for these absorption features. However, examination of terrestrial spectral libraries and previous mineralogy responsible for these absorption features. However, examination of terrestrial spectral libraires and previous moderate spectral resolution mineral studies indicates that the most likely origin of these features is either (bi)carbonate or (bi)sulfate anions in framework silicates of (Fe, Mg)-OH bonds in sheet silicates. If the bands are caused by phyllosilicate minerals, then an explanation must be found for the extremely narrow widths of the cation-OH features in the Mars spectra as compared to terrestrial minerals.
Process for the preparation of metal-containing nanostructured films
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Lu, Yunfeng (Inventor); Wang, Donghai (Inventor)
Metal-containing nanostructured films are prepared by electrodepositing a metal-containing composition within the pores of a mesoporous silica template to form a metal-containing silica nanocomposite. The nanocomposite is annealed to strengthen the deposited metal-containing composition. The silica is then removed from the nanocomposite, e.g., by dissolving the silica in an etching solution to provide a self-supporting metal-containing nanostructured film. The nanostructured films have a nanowire or nanomesh architecture depending on the pore structure of the mesoporous silica template used to prepare the films.
Geometrically induced surface polaritons in planar nanostructured metallic cavities
Davids, P. S.; Intravia, F; Dalvit, Diego A.
We examine the modal structure and dispersion of periodically nanostructured planar metallic cavities within the scattering matrix formulation. By nanostructuring a metallic grating in a planar cavity, artificial surface excitations or spoof plasmon modes are induced with dispersion determined by the periodicity and geometric characteristics of the grating. These spoof surface plasmon modes are shown to give rise to new cavity polaritonic modes at short mirror separations that modify the density of modes in nanostructured cavities. The increased modal density of states form cavity polarirons have a large impact on the fluctuation induced electromagnetic forces and enhanced hear transfer at short separations.
Fabrication of Ordered Blue Nanostructure by Anodization of an Aluminum Plate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kurashima, Yuichi; Yokota, Yoshihiko; Miyamoto, Iwao; Itatani, Taro
Colors in organisms are created by chemical interactions of molecular pigments and by optical interactions of incident light with biological nanostructures. The latter classes are called structural colors and form an important component of the phenotypes of many animals and even some plants. In this paper, we report on the fabrication of an ordered blue nanostructure by the anodization of an Al plate. In the fabrication of such an ordered nanostructure by the anodization of an Al plate, ordered nanostructures with a pitch and an alumina thickness of approximately 100 nm were produced on the Al plate. The ordered nanostructures on the Al plate showed no colors. However, an ordered nanostructure deposited with a Pt thin film with a thickness of approximately 10 nm showed a blue reflection with a peak reflectivity of approximately 370 nm. We conclude that this blue nanostructure on the Al plate is caused by an interference between the Al surface and the Pt surface.
Experiment-Driven Modeling of Plasmonic Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hryn, Alexander John
Plasmonic nanostructures can confine light at their surface in the form of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) or localized surface plasmons (LSPs) depending on their geometry. SPPs are excited on nano- and micropatterned surfaces, where the typical feature size is on the order of the wavelength of light. LSPs, on the other hand, can be excited on nanoparticles much smaller than the diffraction limit. In both cases, far-field optical measurements are used to infer the excited plasmonic modes, and theoretical models are used to verify those results. Typically, these theoretical models are tailored to match the experimental nanostructures in order to explain observed phenomena. In this thesis, I explore incorporating components of experimental procedures into the models to increase the accuracy of the simulated result, and to inform the design of future experiments. First, I examine SPPs on nanostructured metal films in the form of low-symmetry moire plasmonic crystals. I created a general Bragg model to understand and predict the excited SPP modes in moire plasmonic crystals based on the nanolithography masks used in their fabrication. This model makes use of experimental parameters such as periodicity, azimuthal rotation, and number of sequential exposures to predict the energies of excited SPP modes and the opening of plasmonic band gaps. The model is further expanded to apply to multiscale gratings, which have patterns that contain hierarchical periodicities: a sub-micron primary periodicity, and microscale superperiodicity. A new set of rules was established to determine how superlattice SPPs are excited, and informed development of a new fabrication technique to create superlattices with multiple primary periodicities that absorb light over a wider spectral range than other plasmonic structures. The second half of the thesis is based on development of finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations of plasmonic nanoparticles. I created a new technique to model
Nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage
Williamson, Andrew J.; Reboredo, Fernando A.
A system for hydrogen storage comprising a porous nano-structured material with hydrogen absorbed on the surfaces of the porous nano-structured material. The system of hydrogen storage comprises absorbing hydrogen on the surfaces of a porous nano-structured semiconductor material.
Nanostructured Biomaterials for Regeneration**
Wei, Guobao; Ma, Peter X.
Biomaterials play a pivotal role in regenerative medicine, which aims to regenerate and replace lost/dysfunctional tissues or organs. Biomaterials (scaffolds) serve as temporary 3D substrates to guide neo tissue formation and organization. It is often beneficial for a scaffolding material to mimic the characteristics of extracellular matrix (ECM) at the nanometer scale and to induce certain natural developmental or/and wound healing processes for tissue regeneration applications. This article reviews the fabrication and modification technologies for nanofibrous, nanocomposite, and nanostructured drug-delivering scaffolds. ECM-mimicking nanostructured biomaterials have been shown to actively regulate cellular responses including attachment, proliferation, differentiation and matrix deposition. Nano-scaled drug delivery systems can be successfully incorporated into a porous 3D scaffold to enhance the tissue regeneration capacity. In conclusion, nano-structured biomateials are a very exciting and rapidly expanding research area, and are providing new enabling technologies for regenerative medicine. PMID:19946357
Synthesis of porphyrin nanostructures
Fan, Hongyou; Bai, Feng
The present disclosure generally relates to self-assembly methods for generating porphyrin nanostructures. For example, in one embodiment a method is provided that includes preparing a porphyrin solution and a surfactant solution. The porphyrin solution is then mixed with the surfactant solution at a concentration sufficient for confinement of the porphyrin molecules by the surfactant molecules. In some embodiments, the concentration of the surfactant is at or above its critical micelle concentration (CMC), which allows the surfactant to template the growth of the nanostructure over time. The size and morphology of the nanostructures may be affected by the type of porphyrin molecules used, the type of surfactant used, the concentration of the porphyrin and surfactant the pH of the mixture of the solutions, and the order of adding the reagents to the mixture, to name a few variables.
Templated Self Assemble of Nano-Structures
Suo, Zhigang
This project will identify and model mechanisms that template the self-assembly of nanostructures. We focus on a class of systems involving a two-phase monolayer of molecules adsorbed on a solid surface. At a suitably elevated temperature, the molecules diffuse on the surface to reduce the combined free energy of mixing, phase boundary, elastic field, and electrostatic field. With no template, the phases may form a pattern of stripes or disks. The feature size is on the order of 1-100 nm, selected to compromise the phase boundary energy and the long-range elastic or electrostatic interaction. Both experimental observations and our theoretical simulations have shown that the pattern resembles a periodic lattice, but has abundant imperfections. To form a perfect periodic pattern, or a designed aperiodic pattern, one must introduce a template to guide the assembly. For example, a coarse-scale pattern, lithographically defined on the substrate, will guide the assembly of the nanoscale pattern. As another example, if the molecules on the substrate surface carry strong electric dipoles, a charged object, placed in the space above the monolayer, will guide the assembly of the molecular dipoles. In particular, the charged object can be a mask with a designed nanoscale topographic pattern. A serial process (e.g., e-beam lithography) is necessary to make the mask, but the pattern transfer to the molecules on the substrate is a parallel process. The technique is potentially a high throughput, low cost process to pattern a monolayer. The monolayer pattern itself may serve as a template to fabricate a functional structure. This project will model fundamental aspects of these processes, including thermodynamics and kinetics of self-assembly, templated self-assembly, and self-assembly on unconventional substrates. It is envisioned that the theory will not only explain the available experimental observations, but also motivate new experiments.
Three-dimensional hierarchical Te-Si nanostructures.
Lim, Jae-Hong; Shin, Gyeong-Jin; Hwang, Tae-Yeon; Lim, Hyo-Ryoung; Lee, Young-In; Lee, Kyu-Hwan; Kim, Sung-Dae; Oh, Min-Wook; Park, Su-Dong; Myung, Nosang V; Choa, Yong-Ho
Three-dimensional hybrid nanostructures (i.e., Te "nanobranches" on a Si "nanotrunk" or Te "nanoleaves" on a Si "nanotrunk") were synthesized by combining the gold-assisted chemical etching of Si to form Si "nanotrunks" and the galvanic displacement of Si to form Te "nanobranches" or "nanoleaves." By adjusting the composition of the electrolyte used for the galvanic displacement reaction, the shape of the Te nanostructures could be changed from nanoleaves to nanobranches. The Si nanotrunks with Te nanobranches showed stronger luminescent emission in the visible region, with their Raman spectrum having a higher wave number, owing to their grain size being larger. This suggested that the optical and photoelectrochemical properties of Te-Si hybrid nanostructures depend on their shape and size. Using this approach, it should be possible to fabricate various hierarchical nanostructures for use in photoelectronic and photoelectrochemical devices.
Ultrasensitive electrochemical cocaine biosensor based on reversible DNA nanostructure.
Sheng, Qinglin; Liu, Ruixiao; Zhang, Sai; Zheng, Jianbin
We proposed an ultrasensitive electrochemical cocaine biosensor based on the three-dimensional (3D) DNA structure conversion of nanostructure from Triangular Pyramid Frustum (TPFDNA) to Equilateral Triangle (ETDNA). The presence of cocaine triggered the aptamer-composed DNA nanostructure change from "Close" to "Open", leading to obvious faradaic impedance changes. The unique properties with excellent stability and specific rigid structure of the 3D DNA nanostructure made the biosensing functions stable, sensitive, and regenerable. The Faradaic impedance responses were linearly related to cocaine concentration between 1.0 nM and 2.0 μM with a correlation coefficient of 0.993. The limit of detection was calculated to be 0.21 nM following IUPAC recommendations (3Sb/b). It is expected that the distinctive features of DNA nanostructure would make it potentially advantageous for a broad range of biosensing, bionanoelectronics, and therapeutic applications.
Chen, Guanying; Ning, Zhijun; Ågren, Hans
We are glad to announce the Special Issue "Nanostructured Solar Cells", published in Nanomaterials. This issue consists of eight articles, two communications, and one review paper, covering major important aspects of nanostructured solar cells of varying types. From fundamental physicochemical investigations to technological advances, and from single junction solar cells (silicon solar cell, dye sensitized solar cell, quantum dots sensitized solar cell, and small molecule organic solar cell) to tandem multi-junction solar cells, all aspects are included and discussed in this issue to advance the use of nanotechnology to improve the performance of solar cells with reduced fabrication costs.
Fang, Zheyu; Zhu, Xing
Plasmonics has developed into one of the rapidly growing research topics for nanophotonics. With advanced nanofabrication techniques, a broad variety of nanostructures can be designed and fabricated for plasmonic devices at nanoscale. Fundamental properties for both surface plasmon polaritons (SPP) and localized surface plasmons (LSP) arise a new insight and understanding for the electro-optical device investigations, such as plasmonic nanofocusing, low-loss plasmon waveguide and active plasmonic detectors for energy harvesting. Here, we review some typical functional plasmonic nanostructures and nanosmart devices emerging from our individual and collaborative research works.
Chen, Guanying; Ning, Zhijun; Ågren, Hans
We are glad to announce the Special Issue "Nanostructured Solar Cells", published in Nanomaterials. This issue consists of eight articles, two communications, and one review paper, covering major important aspects of nanostructured solar cells of varying types. From fundamental physicochemical investigations to technological advances, and from single junction solar cells (silicon solar cell, dye sensitized solar cell, quantum dots sensitized solar cell, and small molecule organic solar cell) to tandem multi-junction solar cells, all aspects are included and discussed in this issue to advance the use of nanotechnology to improve the performance of solar cells with reduced fabrication costs.
STM observation of a box-shaped graphene nanostructure appeared after mechanical cleavage of pyrolytic graphite
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lapshin, Rostislav V.
A description is given of a three-dimensional box-shaped graphene (BSG) nanostructure formed/uncovered by mechanical cleavage of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG). The discovered nanostructure is a multilayer system of parallel hollow channels located along the surface and having quadrangular cross-section. The thickness of the channel walls/facets is approximately equal to 1 nm. The typical width of channel facets makes about 25 nm, the channel length is 390 nm and more. The investigation of the found nanostructure by means of a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) allows us to draw a conclusion that it is possible to make spatial constructions of graphene similar to the discovered one by mechanical compression, bending, splitting, and shifting graphite surface layers. The distinctive features of such constructions are the following: simplicity of the preparation method, small contact area between graphene planes and a substrate, large surface area, nanometer cross-sectional sizes of the channels, large aspect ratio. Potential fields of application include: ultra-sensitive detectors, high-performance catalytic cells, nanochannels for DNA manipulation, nanomechanical resonators, electron multiplication channels, high-capacity sorbents for hydrogen storage.
Controlled formation of nanostructures on MoS2 layers by focused laser irradiation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rani, Renu; Dimple, Jena, Nityasagar; Kundu, Anirban; Sarkar, Abir De; Hazra, Kiran Shankar
MoS2 nanostructures, i.e., nanoribbons, nano-mesh, etc., may open different prospect of applications in nano-electronic and opto-electronic devices and sensors. However, the fabrication of these complicated nanostructures can be executed by using standard nano-patterning techniques such as lithography, printing, etc. Nevertheless, these standard techniques involve affluent multistep processes to optimize scalability, form factors and accuracy in the feature size. Herein, we demonstrate the fabrication of unique nano-structures on MoS2, such as nano-ribbons and nano-mesh, by a simple one-step process of direct laser writing using 532 nm low power focused laser. The minimum power required to etch a MoS2 layer for a 532 nm laser is found to be ˜6.95 mW and the minimum void size observed is ˜300 nm, which is very close to the diffraction limit of the laser used. Both the experimental and computational results have shown that the voids induced by laser etching always take a hexagonal or triangular shape, which can be used to define crystal orientation of the MoS2 flake. Investigation shows that the periphery of hexagonal voids lies on S atoms, whereas for triangular voids, it lies on Mo atoms of the MoS2 crystal. In-depth AFM and Raman analysis show that the etching rate is tunable by controlling the laser power and the exposure time.
Spin splitting generated in a Y-shaped semiconductor nanostructure with a quantum point contact
Wójcik, P. Adamowski, J. Wołoszyn, M.; Spisak, B. J.
We have studied the spin splitting of the current in the Y-shaped semiconductor nanostructure with a quantum point contact (QPC) in a perpendicular magnetic field. Our calculations show that the appropriate tuning of the QPC potential and the external magnetic field leads to an almost perfect separation of the spin-polarized currents: electrons with opposite spins flow out through different output branches. The spin splitting results from the joint effect of the QPC, the spin Zeeman splitting, and the electron transport through the edge states formed in the nanowire at the sufficiently high magnetic field. The Y-shaped nanostructure can be used to split the unpolarized current into two spin currents with opposite spins as well as to detect the flow of the spin current. We have found that the separation of the spin currents is only slightly affected by the Rashba spin-orbit coupling. The spin-splitter device is an analogue of the optical device—the birefractive crystal that splits the unpolarized light into two beams with perpendicular polarizations. In the magnetic-field range, in which the current is carried through the edges states, the spin splitting is robust against the spin-independent scattering. This feature opens up a possibility of the application of the Y-shaped nanostructure as a non-ballistic spin-splitter device in spintronics.
Nanostructured polyurethane-poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid scaffolds increase bladder tissue regeneration: an in vivo study.
Yao, Chang; Hedrick, Matt; Pareek, Gyan; Renzulli, Joseph; Haleblian, George; Webster, Thomas J
Although showing much promise for numerous tissue engineering applications, polyurethane and poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) have suffered from a lack of cytocompatibility, sometimes leading to poor tissue integration. Nanotechnology (or the use of materials with surface features or constituent dimensions less than 100 nm in at least one direction) has started to transform currently implanted materials (such as polyurethane and PLGA) to promote tissue regeneration. This is because nanostructured surface features can be used to change medical device surface energy to alter initial protein adsorption events important for promoting tissue-forming cell functions. Thus, due to their altered surface energetics, the objective of the present in vivo study was to create nanoscale surface features on a new polyurethane and PLGA composite scaffold (by soaking the polyurethane side and PLGA side in HNO₃ and NaOH, respectively) and determine bladder tissue regeneration using a minipig model. The novel nanostructured scaffolds were further functionalized with IKVAV and YIGSR peptides to improve cellular responses. Results provided the first evidence of increased in vivo bladder tissue regeneration when using a composite of nanostructured polyurethane and PLGA compared with control ileal segments. Due to additional surgery, extended potentially problematic healing times, metabolic complications, donor site morbidity, and sometimes limited availability, ileal segment repair of a bladder defect is not optimal and, thus, a synthetic analog is highly desirable. In summary, this study indicates significant promise for the use of nanostructured polyurethane and PLGA composites to increase bladder tissue repair for a wide range of regenerative medicine applications, such as regenerating bladder tissue after removal of cancerous tissue, disease, or other trauma.
Fabrication and characterization of carbon doped molybdenum oxide nanostructures.
Wisitsoraat, A; Tuantranont, A; Patthanasettakul, V; Lomas, T
Molybdenum oxide (MoOx) nanostructure has gained considerable attention because of its low-cost fabrication by low-temperature evaporation/condensation technique and its promising properties for applications in the field of catalysts and chemical sensors. However, MoOx has some inferior properties including very high electrical resistivity and instability at elevated temperature. These properties may be improved by means of foreign atom addition into its nanostructure. In this work, we develop a simple mean for doping of MoOx nanostructures by introduction of gas source dopant during evaporation. Carbon doped MoOx nanostructures have been synthesized by MoOx powder evaporation in Argon/Acetylene mixture with varying process parameters. Depending on growth conditions, various nanostructures including, nanorod, nanoplate, nanodots, can be formed with different dimensions and doping concentrations. Structural characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicate that the MoOx based nanostructures are highly crystalline and carbon dopant is successfully incorporated in the structure with controllable concentration. Electrical characterization shows that the electrical conductivity of molybdenum oxide nanostructures can be increased by several orders of magnitude with carbon incorporation.
Building Nanostructures with Drugs
Ma, Wang; Cheetham, Andrew G.
The convergence of nanoscience and drug delivery has prompted the formation of the field of nanomedicine, one that exploits the novel physicochemical and biological properties of nanostructures for improved medical treatments and reduced side effects. Until recently, this nanostructure-mediated strategy considered the drug to be solely a biologically active compound to be delivered, and its potential as a molecular building unit remained largely unexplored. A growing trend within nanomedicine has been the use of drug molecules to build well-defined nanostructures of various sizes and shapes. This strategy allows for the creation of self-delivering supramolecular nanomedicines containing a high and fixed drug content. Through rational design of the number and type of the drug incorporated, the resulting nanostructures can be tailored to assume various morphologies (e.g. nanospheres, rods, nanofibers, or nanotubes) for a particular mode of administration such as systemic, topical, and local delivery. This review covers the recent advances in this rapidly developing field, with the aim of providing an in-depth evaluation of the exciting opportunities that this new field could create to improve the current clinical practice of nanomedicine. PMID:27066106
Nanostructured catalyst supports
Zhu, Yimin; Goldman, Jay L.; Qian, Baixin; Stefan, Ionel C.
The present invention relates to SiC nanostructures, including SiC nanopowder, SiC nanowires, and composites of SiC nanopowder and nanowires, which can be used as catalyst supports in membrane electrode assemblies and in fuel cells. The present invention also relates to composite catalyst supports comprising nanopowder and one or more inorganic nanowires for a membrane electrode assembly.
Emerging double helical nanostructures.
Zhao, Meng-Qiang; Zhang, Qiang; Tian, Gui-Li; Wei, Fei
As one of the most important and land-mark structures found in nature, a double helix consists of two congruent single helices with the same axis or a translation along the axis. This double helical structure renders the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) the crucial biomolecule in evolution and metabolism. DNA-like double helical nanostructures are probably the most fantastic yet ubiquitous geometry at the nanoscale level, which are expected to exhibit exceptional and even rather different properties due to the unique organization of the two single helices and their synergistic effect. The organization of nanomaterials into double helical structures is an emerging hot topic for nanomaterials science due to their promising exceptional unique properties and applications. This review focuses on the state-of-the-art research progress for the fabrication of double-helical nanostructures based on 'bottom-up' and 'top-down' strategies. The relevant nanoscale, mesoscale, and macroscopic scale fabrication methods, as well as the properties of the double helical nanostructures are included. Critical perspectives are devoted to the synthesis principles and potential applications in this emerging research area. A multidisciplinary approach from the scope of nanoscience, physics, chemistry, materials, engineering, and other application areas is still required to the well-controlled and large-scale synthesis, mechanism, property, and application exploration of double helical nanostructures.
Nanostructured catalyst supports
Zhu, Yimin; Goldman, Jay L.; Qian, Baixin; Stefan, Ionel C.
The present invention relates to SiC nanostructures, including SiC nanopowder, SiC nanowires, and composites of SiC nanopowder and nanowires, which can be used as catalyst supports in membrane electrode assemblies and in fuel cells. The present invention also relates to composite catalyst supports comprising nanopowder and one or more inorganic nanowires for a membrane electrode assembly.
Synthesis and characterization of hybrid nanostructures
Mokari, Taleb
There has been significant interest in the development of multicomponent nanocrystals formed by the assembly of two or more different materials with control over size, shape, composition, and spatial orientation. In particular, the selective growth of metals on the tips of semiconductor nanorods and wires can act to couple the electrical and optical properties of semiconductors with the unique properties of various metals. Here, we outline our progress on the solution-phase synthesis of metal-semiconductor heterojunctions formed by the growth of Au, Pt, or other binary catalytic metal systems on metal (Cd, Pb, Cu)-chalcogenide nanostructures. We show the ability to grow the metal on various shapes (spherical, rods, hexagonal prisms, and wires). Furthermore, manipulating the composition of the metal nanoparticles is also shown, where PtNi and PtCo alloys are our main focus. The magnetic and electrical properties of the developed hybrid nanostructures are shown. PMID:22110873
Magneto Transport in Three Dimensional Carbon Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Datta, Timir; Wang, Lei; Jaroszynski, Jan; Yin, Ming; Alameri, Dheyaa
Electrical properties of self-assembled three dimensional nanostructures are interesting topic. Here we report temperature dependence of magneto transport in such carbon nanostructures with periodic spherical voids. Specimens with different void diameters in the temperature range from 200 mK to 20 K were studied. Above 2 K, magnetoresistance, MR = [R(B) - R(0)] / R(0), crosses over from quadratic to a linear dependence with the increase of magnetic field [Wang et al., APL 2015; DOI:10.1063/1.4926606]. We observe MR to be non-saturating even up to 18 Tesla. Furthermore, MR demonstrates universality because all experimental data can be collapsed on to a single curve, as a universal function of B/T. Below 2 K, magnetoresistance saturates with increasing field. Quantum Hall like steps are also observed in this low temperature regime. Remarkably, MR of our sample displays orientation independence, an attractive feature for technological applications.
Thermal Failure of Nanostructured Thermal Barrier Coatings with Cold-Sprayed Nanostructured NiCrAlY Bond Coat
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Qiang; Li, Chang-Jiu; Li, Yong; Zhang, Shao-Ling; Wang, Xiu-Ru; Yang, Guan-Jun; Li, Cheng-Xin
Nanostructured thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were deposited by plasma spraying using agglomerated nanostructured YSZ powder on Inconel 738 substrate with cold-sprayed nanostructured NiCrAlY powder as bond coat. The isothermal oxidation and thermal cycling tests were applied to examine failure modes of plasma-sprayed nanostructured TBCs. For comparison, the TBC consisting of conventional microstructure YSZ and conventional NiCrAlY bond coat was also deposited and subjected to the thermal shock test. The results showed that nanostructured YSZ coating contained two kinds of microstructures; nanosized zirconia particles embedded in the matrix and microcolumnar grain structures of zirconia similar to those of conventional YSZ. Although, after thermal cyclic test, a continuous, uniform thermally grown oxide (TGO) was formed, cracks were observed at the interface between TGO/BC or TGO/YSZ after thermal cyclic test. However, the failure of nanostructured and conventional TBCs mainly occurred through spalling of YSZ. Compared with conventional TBCs, nanostructured TBCs exhibited better thermal shock resistance.
Biological features of biofilm-forming ability of Acinetobacter baumannii strains derived from 121 elderly patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia.
Zhang, Duchao; Xia, Jingjing; Xu, Yaping; Gong, Meiliang; Zhou, Yu; Xie, Lixin; Fang, Xiangqun
This study is to investigate a biological activity of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from sputum specimens of 121 elderly patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia. The ability of the isolates to form biofilms was quantitatively assessed by crystal violet staining, and adhesive property was examined using Giemsa staining. Biofilm-forming ability by the isolates was employed to test antimicrobial resistance and examine sources and clinical manifestations. The isolates grew as biofilm on abiotic surface at the indicated temperatures after a 48 h of incubation. 27.3 % of the isolates were strongly biofilm-positive in the samples, and 84.8 % displayed high adhesion ability (P < 0.05). All of the isolates showed antibiotic resistance at different levels, and the isolates produced strong biofilm exhibited low-level resistance to gentamicin, minocycline and ceftazidime (P < 0.05). The patients' experience in ICU, use of antibiotics and estimation of APACHE II (<17) were related to incidence of strong biofilm formation with no clinical manifestations found in the study. All clinical isolates are able to form biofilms which refer to adhesive efficiency and antibiotic resistance. Patient experiences in ICU surveillance, use of antibiotics and APACHE II scores are involved in biofilm-forming ability by the nosocomial pathogen derived from the hospitalized patients.
Design rule of nanostructures in light-emitting diodes for complete elimination of total internal reflection.
Son, Jun Ho; Kim, Jong Uk; Song, Yang Hee; Kim, Buem Joon; Ryu, Chul Jong; Lee, Jong-Lam
Cone-shaped nanostructures with controllable side-wall angle are success- fully fabricated with a SiO(2) nanosphere lithography (NSL) etching mask. Vertical LEDs with cone-shaped nanostructures with a 24.1° side-wall angle provide 6% more light output power compared to those using hexagonal pyramids formed by photochemical etching. This achievement is attributed to effective elimination of total internal reflection by angle-controlled nanostructures.
Analysis of nanopore arrangement and structural features of anodic alumina layers formed by two-step anodizing in oxalic acid using the dedicated executable software
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zaraska, Leszek; Stępniowski, Wojciech J.; Sulka, Grzegorz D.; Ciepiela, Eryk; Jaskuła, Marian
Anodic porous alumina layers were fabricated by a two-step self-organized anodization in 0.3 M oxalic acid under various anodizing potentials ranging from 30 to 60 V at two different temperatures (10 and 17 ∘C). The effect of anodizing conditions on structural features and pore arrangement of AAO was investigated in detail by using the dedicated executable publication combined with ImageJ software. With increasing anodizing potential, a linear increase of the average pore diameter, interpore distance, wall thickness and barrier layer thickness, as well as a decrease of the pore density, were observed. In addition, the higher pore diameter and porosity values were obtained for samples anodized at the elevated temperature, independently of the anodizing potential. A degree of pore order was investigated on the basis of Delaunay triangulations (defect maps) and calculation of pair distribution or angle distribution functions (PDF or ADF), respectively. All methods confirmed that in order to obtain nanoporous alumina with the best, hexagonal pore arrangement, the potential of 40 V should be applied during anodization. It was confirmed that the dedicated executable publication can be used to a fast and complex analysis of nanopore arrangement and structural features of nanoporous oxide layers.
EDITORIAL: Nanostructures + Light = 'New Optics'
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zheludev, Nikolay; Shalaev, Vladimir
Suddenly, at the end of the last century, classical optics and classical electrodynamics became fashionable again. Fields that several generations of researchers thought were comprehensively covered by the famous Born and Wolf textbook and were essentially dead as research subjects were generating new excitement. In accordance with Richard Feynman's famous quotation on nano-science, the optical community suddenly discovered that 'there is plenty of room at the bottom'—mixing light with small, meso- and nano-structures could generate new physics and new mind-blowing applications. This renaissance began when the concept of band structure was imported from electronics into the domain of optics and led to the development of what is now a massive research field dedicated to two- and three-dimensional photonic bandgap structures. The field was soon awash with bright new ideas and discoveries that consolidated the birth of the 'new optics'. A revision of some of the basic equations of electrodynamics led to the suspicion that we had overlooked the possibility that the triad of wave vector, electric field and magnetic field, characterizing propagating waves, do not necessarily form a right-handed set. This brought up the astonishing possibilities of sub-wavelength microscopy and telescopy where resolution is not limited by diffraction. The notion of meta-materials, i.e. artificial materials with properties not available in nature, originated in the microwave community but has been widely adopted in the domain of optical research, thanks to rapidly improving nanofabrication capabilities and the development of sub-wavelength scanning imaging techniques. Photonic meta-materials are expected to open a gateway to unprecedented electromagnetic properties and functionality unattainable from naturally occurring materials. The structural units of meta-materials can be tailored in shape and size; their composition and morphology can be artificially tuned, and inclusions can be
ZnS:Cr Nanostructures Building Fractals and Their Properties
Gogoi, D. P.; Das, U.; Mohanta, D.; Ahmed, G. A.; Choudhury, A.
Cr doped ZnS nanostructures have been fabricated through colloidal solution route by using Polyvinyl alcohol (-C{sub 2}H{sub 4}O){sub n} and Polyvinyl pyrrolidone k30 (C{sub 6}H{sub 9}NO){sub x} as dielectric hosts. Growth of fractal structures have been observed through Transmission Electron Microscopy. Higher magnification TEM study reveals that these fractals actually a organize structure of ZnS:Cr nanostructures. The structural study of these nanostructures in the fractals is done by X-Ray Diffraction, UV-Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence spectroscopy AFM and MFM. These investigations allow us to form a comprehensive explanation of fractal as well as nanostructure growth. We have done dimensional study of these fractals and the reason behind the formation of these fractals.
Functional self-assembled DNA nanostructures for molecular recognition
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Xiaojuan; Yadavalli, Vamsi K.
Nucleic acids present a wonderful toolkit of structural motifs for nanoconstruction. Functional DNA nanostructures can enable protein recognition by the use of aptamers attached to a basic core shape formed by DNA self-assembly. Here, we present a facile, programmable strategy for the assembly of discrete aptamer-tagged DNA shapes and nanostructures that can function for molecular recognition and binding in an aqueous environment. These nanostructures, presented here to bind two different protein targets, are easily synthesized in large numbers, and are portable and stable over long periods of time. This construction modality can facilitate on-demand production of libraries of diverse shapes to recognize and bind proteins or catalyze reactions via functional nucleic acid tags.Nucleic acids present a wonderful toolkit of structural motifs for nanoconstruction. Functional DNA nanostructures can enable protein recognition by the use of aptamers attached to a basic core shape formed by DNA self-assembly. Here, we present a facile, programmable strategy for the assembly of discrete aptamer-tagged DNA shapes and nanostructures that can function for molecular recognition and binding in an aqueous environment. These nanostructures, presented here to bind two different protein targets, are easily synthesized in large numbers, and are portable and stable over long periods of time. This construction modality can facilitate on-demand production of libraries of diverse shapes to recognize and bind proteins or catalyze reactions via functional nucleic acid tags. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr11711h
Determination of structural and vibrational spectroscopic features of neutral and anion forms of dinicotinic acid by using NMR, infrared and Raman experimental methods combined with DFT and HF
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kose, E.; Bardak, F.; Atac, A.; Karabacak, M.; Cipiloglu, M. A.
In this study; the experimental (NMR, infrared and Raman) and theoretical (HF and DFT) analysis of dinicotinic acid were presented. 1H and 13C NMR spectra were recorded in DMSO solution and chemical shifts were calculated by using the gauge-invariant atomic orbital (GIAO) method. The vibrational spectra of dinicotinic acid were recorded by FT-Raman and FT-IR spectra in the range of 4000-10 cm-1 and 4000-400 cm-1, respectively. To determine the most stable neutral conformer of molecule, the selected torsion angle was changed every 10° and molecular energy profile was calculated from 0° to 360°. The geometrical parameters and energies were obtained for all conformers form from density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP) and HF with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set calculations. However, the results of the most stable neutral and two anion forms (anion-1 and anion-2 forms) of dinicotinic acid are reported here. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational wavenumbers, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method and PQS program.
Determination of structural and vibrational spectroscopic features of neutral and anion forms of dinicotinic acid by using NMR, infrared and Raman experimental methods combined with DFT and HF.
Kose, E; Bardak, F; Atac, A; Karabacak, M; Cipiloglu, M A
In this study; the experimental (NMR, infrared and Raman) and theoretical (HF and DFT) analysis of dinicotinic acid were presented. (1)H and (13)C NMR spectra were recorded in DMSO solution and chemical shifts were calculated by using the gauge-invariant atomic orbital (GIAO) method. The vibrational spectra of dinicotinic acid were recorded by FT-Raman and FT-IR spectra in the range of 4000-10 cm(-1) and 4000-400 cm(-1), respectively. To determine the most stable neutral conformer of molecule, the selected torsion angle was changed every 10° and molecular energy profile was calculated from 0° to 360°. The geometrical parameters and energies were obtained for all conformers form from density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP) and HF with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set calculations. However, the results of the most stable neutral and two anion forms (anion(-1) and anion(-2) forms) of dinicotinic acid are reported here. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the total energy distribution (TED) of the vibrational wavenumbers, calculated with scaled quantum mechanics (SQM) method and PQS program.
Towards nano-organic chemistry: perspectives for a bottom-up approach to the synthesis of low-dimensional carbon nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mercuri, Francesco; Baldoni, Matteo; Sgamellotti, Antonio
Low-dimensional carbon nanostructures, such as nanotubes and graphenes, represent one of the most promising classes of materials, in view of their potential use in nanotechnology. However, their exploitation in applications is often hindered by difficulties in their synthesis and purification. Despite the huge efforts by the research community, the production of nanostructured carbon materials with controlled properties is still beyond reach. Nonetheless, this step is nowadays mandatory for significant progresses in the realization of advanced applications and devices based on low-dimensional carbon nanostructures. Although promising alternative routes for the fabrication of nanostructured carbon materials have recently been proposed, a comprehensive understanding of the key factors governing the bottom-up assembly of simple precursors to form complex systems with tailored properties is still at its early stages. In this paper, following a survey of recent experimental efforts in the bottom-up synthesis of carbon nanostructures, we attempt to clarify generalized criteria for the design of suitable precursors that can be used as building blocks in the production of complex systems based on sp2 carbon atoms and discuss potential synthetic strategies. In particular, the approaches presented in this feature article are based on the application of concepts borrowed from traditional organic chemistry, such as valence-bond theory and Clar sextet theory, and on their extension to the case of complex carbon nanomaterials. We also present and discuss a validation of these approaches through first-principle calculations on prototypical systems. Detailed studies on the processes involved in the bottom-up fabrication of low-dimensional carbon nanostructures are expected to pave the way for the design and optimization of precursors and efficient synthetic routes, thus allowing the development of novel materials with controlled morphology and properties that can be used in
Dynamic modeling and scaling of nanostructure formation in the lithographically induced self-assembly and self-construction
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wu, Lin; Chou, Stephen Y.
We numerically studied the dynamical formation process and the scaling of the nanostructures in the lithographically induced self-assembly and self-construction of thin polymer films. Our studies show that the period of the self-assembled pillars depends on the ratio between the surface tension force and the electrostatic force. The viscosity of the polymer has no effect on the final pillar shape. When the feature width of the mold is comparable to or smaller than the most unstable disturbance wavelength of the system, the initially self-assembled pillars will merge to form a self-constructed mesa.
Bimetallic nanostructures as active Raman markers: gold-nanoparticle assembly on 1D and 2D silver nanostructure surfaces.
Gunawidjaja, Ray; Kharlampieva, Eugenia; Choi, Ikjun; Tsukruk, Vladimir V
It is demonstrated that bimetallic silver-gold anisotropic nanostructures can be easily assembled from various nanoparticle building blocks with well-defined geometries by means of electrostatic interactions. One-dimensional (1D) silver nanowires, two-dimensional (2D) silver nanoplates, and spherical gold nanoparticles are used as representative building blocks for bottom-up assembly. The gold nanoparticles are electrostatically bound onto the 1D silver nanowires and the 2D silver nanoplates to give bimetallic nanostructures. The unique feature of the resulting nanostructures is the particle-to-particle interaction that subjects absorbed analytes to an enhanced electromagnetic field with strong polarization dependence. The Raman activity of the bimetallic nanostructures is compared with that of the individual nanoparticle blocks by using rhodamine 6G solution as the model analyte. The Raman intensity of the best-performing silver-gold nanostructure is comparable with the dense array of silver nanowires and silver nanoplates that were prepared by means of the Langmuir-Blodgett technique. An optimized design of a single-nanostructure substrate for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), based on a wet-assembly technique proposed here, can serve as a compact and low-cost alternative to fabricated nanoparticle arrays.
Nanostructured Superhydrophobic Coatings
This factsheet describes a research project that deals with the nanostructured superhydrophobic (SH) powders developed at ORNL. This project seeks to (1) improve powder quality; (2) identify binders for plastics, fiberglass, metal (steel being the first priority), wood, and other products such as rubber and shingles; (3) test the coated product for coating quality and durability under operating conditions; and (4) application testing and production of powders in quantity.
Alternative nanostructures for thermophones.
Aliev, Ali E; Mayo, Nathanael K; Jung de Andrade, Monica; Robles, Raquel O; Fang, Shaoli; Baughman, Ray H; Zhang, Mei; Chen, Yongsheng; Lee, Jae Ah; Kim, Seon Jeong
Thermophones are highly promising for applications such as high-power SONAR arrays, flexible loudspeakers, and noise cancellation devices. So far, freestanding carbon nanotube aerogel sheets provide the most attractive performance as a thermoacoustic heat source. However, the limited accessibility of large-size freestanding carbon nanotube aerogel sheets and other even more exotic materials recently investigated hampers the field. We describe alternative materials for a thermoacoustic heat source with high-energy conversion efficiency, additional functionalities, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective production technologies. We discuss the thermoacoustic performance of alternative nanostructured materials and compare their spectral and power dependencies of sound pressure in air. We demonstrate that the heat capacity of aerogel-like nanostructures can be extracted by a thorough analysis of the sound pressure spectra. The study presented here focuses on engineering thermal gradients in the vicinity of nanostructures and subsequent heat dissipation processes from the interior of encapsulated thermoacoustic projectors. Applications of thermoacoustic projectors for high-power SONAR arrays, sound cancellation, and optimal thermal design, regarding enhanced energy conversion efficiency, are discussed.
Bioindication of trace metals in Brachythecium rutabulum around a copper smelter in Legnica (Southwest Poland): Use of a new form of data presentation in the form of a self-organizing feature map.
Samecka-Cymerman, A; Stankiewicz, A; Kolon, K; Kempers, A J
Concentrations of the elements Al, Be, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn were measured in the terrestrial moss Brachythecium rutabulum and the soil on which it grew. Soil and moss plants were sampled at sites situated 1.5, 3, 6, 9 and 15 km to the north, south, east and west of the Legnica copper smelter (SW Poland). The self-organizing feature map (SOFM) or Kohonen network was used to classify the soil and moss samples according to the concentrations of the elements. The self-organizing map yielded distinct groups of B. rutabulum and soil samples, depending on the distance from and direction to the source of pollution. When the map-identified groups of sites with similar soil metal concentrations were combined with the map-identified groups of sites with similar metal concentrations in B. rutabulum, these maps were found to correspond closely. The SOFMs accurately represented the least polluted, moderately polluted and severely polluted sites, reflecting the distribution of metals that is typical of the smelter area, caused by the prevailing westerly and northerly winds.
Magnetic domain wall manipulation in (Ga,Mn)As nanostructures for spintronic applications
Wosinski, Tadeusz; Andrearczyk, Tomasz; Figielski, Tadeusz; Olender, Karolina; Wrobel, Jerzy
Ring-shaped nanostructures have been designed and fabricated by electron-beam lithography patterning and chemical etching from thin epitaxial layers of the ferromagnetic semiconductor (Ga,Mn)As. The nanostructures, in a form of planar rings with a slit, were supplied with four electrical terminals and subjected to magneto-transport studies under planar weak magnetic field. Magnetoresistive effects caused by manipulation of magnetic domain walls and magnetization reversal in the nanostructures have been investigated and possible applications of the nanostructures as four-terminal spintronic devices are discussed.
Pomological features, nutritional quality, polyphenol content analysis, and antioxidant properties of domesticated and 3 wild ecotype forms of raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.).
Gülçin, Ilhami; Topal, Fevzi; Çakmakçı, Ramazan; Bilsel, Mine; Gören, Ahmet C; Erdogan, Ummugulsum
The raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is an economically important berry crop that contains many phenolic compounds with potential health benefits. In this study, important pomological features, including nutrient content and antioxidant properties, of a domesticated and 3 wild (Yayla, Yavuzlar, and Yedigöl) raspberry fruits were evaluated. Also, the amount of total phenolics and flavonoids in lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were calculated as gallic acid equivalents (GAEs) and quercetin equivalents (QE). The highest phenolic compounds were found in wild Yayla ecotype (26.66 ± 3.26 GAE/mg extract). Whilst, the highest flavonoids were determined in wild Yedigöl ecotype (6.09 ± 1.21 QA/mg extract). The antioxidant activity of lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were investigated as trolox equivalents using different in vitro assays including DPPH(•), ABTS(•+), DMPD(•+), and O(•-)(2) radical scavenging activities, H(2)O(2) scavenging activity, ferric (Fe(3+)) and cupric ions (Cu(2+)) reducing abilities, ferrous ions (Fe(2+)) chelating activity. In addition, quantitative amounts of caffeic acid, ferulic acid, syringic acid, ellagic acid, quercetin, α-tocopherol, pyrogallol, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillin, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and ascorbic acid in lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). The results clearly show that p-coumaric acid is the main phenolic acid responsible for the antioxidant and radical scavenging activity of lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits.
Tuning the Fabrication of Nanostructures by Low-Energy Highly Charged Ions.
El-Said, Ayman S; Wilhelm, Richard A; Heller, Rene; Sorokin, Michael; Facsko, Stefan; Aumayr, Friedrich
Slow highly charged ions have been utilized recently for the creation of monotype surface nanostructures (craters, calderas, or hillocks) in different materials. In the present study, we report on the ability of slow highly charged xenon ions (^{129}Xe^{Q+}) to form three different types of nanostructures on the LiF(100) surface. By increasing the charge state from Q=15 to Q=36, the shape of the impact induced nanostructures changes from craters to hillocks crossing an intermediate stage of caldera structures. A dimensional analysis of the nanostructures reveals an increase of the height up to 1.5 nm as a function of the potential energy of the incident ions. Based on the evolution of both the geometry and size of the created nanostructures, defect-mediated desorption and the development of a thermal spike are utilized as creation mechanisms of the nanostructures at low and high charge states, respectively.
Tuning the Fabrication of Nanostructures by Low-Energy Highly Charged Ions
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
El-Said, Ayman S.; Wilhelm, Richard A.; Heller, Rene; Sorokin, Michael; Facsko, Stefan; Aumayr, Friedrich
Slow highly charged ions have been utilized recently for the creation of monotype surface nanostructures (craters, calderas, or hillocks) in different materials. In the present study, we report on the ability of slow highly charged xenon ions (129Xe Q+ ) to form three different types of nanostructures on the LiF(100) surface. By increasing the charge state from Q =15 to Q =36 , the shape of the impact induced nanostructures changes from craters to hillocks crossing an intermediate stage of caldera structures. A dimensional analysis of the nanostructures reveals an increase of the height up to 1.5 nm as a function of the potential energy of the incident ions. Based on the evolution of both the geometry and size of the created nanostructures, defect-mediated desorption and the development of a thermal spike are utilized as creation mechanisms of the nanostructures at low and high charge states, respectively.
Responsive nanostructures from aqueous assembly of rigid-flexible block molecules.
Kim, Ho-Joong; Kim, Taehoon; Lee, Myongsoo
During the past decade, supramolecular nanostructures produced via self-assembly processes have received considerable attention because these structures can lead to dynamic materials. Among these diverse self-assembly systems, the aqueous assemblies that result from the sophisticated design of molecular building blocks offer many potential applications for producing biocompatible materials that can be used for tissue regeneration, drug delivery, and ion channel regulation. Along this line, researchers have synthesized self-assembling molecules based on ethylene oxide chains and peptide building blocks to exploit water-soluble supramolecular structures. Another important issue in the development of systems that self-assemble is the introduction of stimuli-responsive functions into the nanostructures. Recently, major efforts have been undertaken to develop responsive nanostructures that respond to applied stimuli and dynamically undergo defined changes, thereby producing switchable properties. As a result, this introduction of stimuli-responsive functions into aqueous self-assembly provides an attractive approach for the creation of novel nanomaterials that are capable of responding to environmental changes. This Account describes recent work in our group to develop responsive nanostructures via the self-assembly of small block molecules based on rigid-flexible building blocks in aqueous solution. Because the rigid-flexible molecules self-assemble into nanoscale aggregates through subtle anisometric interactions, the small variations in local environments trigger rapid transformation of the equilibrium features. First, we briefly describe the general self-assembly of the rod amphiphiles based on a rigid-flexible molecular architecture in aqueous solution. We then highlight the structural changes and the optical/macroscopic switching that occurs in the aqueous assemblies in response to the external signals. For example, the aqueous nanofibers formed through the self
Tailored magnetic nanostructures on surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pierce, John Philip
Nanostructuring has introduced us to a new world of tunable, artificially structured materials. An exciting aspect of this new world is that we control where the atoms, or layers of atoms, are arranged in materials and have learned that this can awaken new properties in them. But, we are only at the beginning stages in developing this control and an understanding of what can be done with it. This dissertation is about an important part of finding our way in this new world; learning to tailor magnetic nanostructures on surfaces. We begin by showing ways in which the magnetic properties of ultrathin films, nanostripes, and isolated nanoclusters can be systematically varied in order to teach us about their behavior. The ultrathin films are from the historically challenging Fe/Cu(100) system. We use small fractions of a single layer of cobalt capping atoms to control their magnetization direction and find a completely new way to cause the magnetization direction to reorient. The nanostripes are made of alloys of iron and cobalt on a tungsten surface. We explore how the magnetic ordering in these stripes is affected by variation of their composition. We then show how changing the size and spacing of isolated Fe dots on a copper surface can teach us about magnetic interactions between them. Finally, we show how our ability to synthesize the dots represented the last piece in an important puzzle. This work enables us to make the first direct observation of how the magnetic properties of a particular amount of a single material change as it is prepared in the form of an ultrathin film, wire array, or dot assembly on a common template.
Ordered Nanostructures Made Using Chaperonin Polypeptides
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Trent, Jonathan; McMillan, Robert; Paavola, Chad; Mogul, Rakesh; Kagawa, Hiromi
A recently invented method of fabricating periodic or otherwise ordered nanostructures involves the use of chaperonin polypeptides. The method is intended to serve as a potentially superior and less expensive alternative to conventional lithographic methods for use in the patterning steps of the fabrication of diverse objects characterized by features of the order of nanometers. Typical examples of such objects include arrays of quantum dots that would serve as the functional building blocks of future advanced electronic and photonic devices. A chaperonin is a double-ring protein structure having a molecular weight of about 60 plus or minus 5 kilodaltons. In nature, chaperonins are ubiquitous, essential, subcellular structures. Each natural chaperonin molecule comprises 14, 16, or 18 protein subunits, arranged as two stacked rings approximately 16 to 18 nm tall by approximately 15 to 17 nm wide, the exact dimensions depending on the biological species in which it originates. The natural role of chaperonins is unknown, but they are believed to aid in the correct folding of other proteins, by enclosing unfolded proteins and preventing nonspecific aggregation during assembly. What makes chaperonins useful for the purpose of the present method is that under the proper conditions, chaperonin rings assemble themselves into higher-order structures. This method exploits such higher-order structures to define nanoscale devices. The higher-order structures are tailored partly by choice of chemical and physical conditions for assembly and partly by using chaperonins that have been mutated. The mutations are made by established biochemical techniques. The assembly of chaperonin polypeptides into such structures as rings, tubes, filaments, and sheets (two-dimensional crystals) can be regulated chemically. Rings, tubes, and filaments of some chaperonin polypeptides can, for example, function as nano vessels if they are able to absorb, retain, protect, and release gases or
Subwavelength resonant nanostructured films for sensing
Alvine, Kyle J.; Bernacki, Bruce E.; Suter, Jonathan D.; Bennett, Wendy D.; Edwards, Daniel L.; Mendoza, Albert
We present a novel subwavelength nanostructure architecture that may be utilized for optical standoff sensing applications. The subwavelength structures are fabricated via a combination of nanoimprint lithography and metal sputtering to create metallic nanostructured films encased within a transparent media. The structures are based on the open ring resonator (ORR) architecture and have their analog in resonant LC circuits, which display a resonance frequency that is inversely proportional to the square root of the product of the inductance and capacitance. Therefore, any perturbation of the nanostructured films due to chemical or environmental effects can alter the inductive or capacitive behavior of the subwavelength features, which can shift the resonant frequency and provide an indication of the external stimulus. This shift in resonance can be interrogated remotely either actively using either laser illumination or passively using hyperspectral or multispectral sensing. These structures may be designed to be either anisotropic or isotropic, which can also provide polarization-sensitive interrogation. Due to the nanometer-scale of the structures, they can be tailored to be optically responsive in the visible or near infrared spectrum with a highly reflective resonant peak that is dependent solely on structural dimensions and material characteristics. We present experimental measurements of the optical response of these structures as a function of wavelength, polarization, and incident angle demonstrating the resonant effect in the near infrared region. Numerical modeling data showing the effect of different fabrication parameters such as structure parameters are also discussed.
Precipitate strengthening of nanostructured aluminium alloy.
Wawer, Kinga; Lewandowska, Malgorzata; Kurzydlowski, Krzysztof J
Grain boundaries and precipitates are the major microstructural features influencing the mechanical properties of metals and alloys. Refinement of the grain size to the nanometre scale brings about a significant increase in the mechanical strength of the materials because of the increased number of grain boundaries which act as obstacles to sliding dislocations. A similar effect is obtained if nanoscale precipitates are uniformly distributed in coarse grained matrix. The development of nanograin sized alloys raises the important question of whether or not these two mechanisms are "additive" and precipitate strengthening is effective in nanostructured materials. In the reported work, hydrostatic extrusion (HE) was used to obtain nanostructured 7475 aluminium alloy. Nanosized precipitates were obtained by post-HE annealing. It was found that such annealing at the low temperatures (100 degrees C) results in a significant increase in the microhardness (HV0.2) and strength of the nanostructured 7475 aluminium alloy. These results are discussed in terms of the interplay between the precipitation and deformation of nanocrystalline metals.
Nanostructured cathode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Myung, Seung-Taek; Amine, Khalil; Sun, Yang-Kook
The prospect of drastic climate change and the ceaseless fluctuation of fossil fuel prices provide motivation to reduce the use of fossil fuels and to find new energy conversion and storage systems that are able to limit carbon dioxide generation. Among known systems, lithium-ion batteries are recognized as the most appropriate energy storage system because of their high energy density and thus space saving in applications. Introduction of nanotechnology to electrode material is beneficial to improve the resulting electrode performances such as capacity, its retention, and rate capability. The nanostructure is highly available not only when used alone but also is more highlighted when harmonized in forms of core-shell structure and composites with carbon nanotubes, graphene or reduced graphene oxides. This review covers syntheses and electrochemical properties of nanoscale, nanosized, and nanostructured cathode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries.
Self-assembled Oniontype Multiferroic Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ren, Shenqiang; Briber, Robert M.; Wuttig, Manfred
Spontaneously self-assembled oniontype multiferroic nanostructures based on block copolymers as templating materials are reported. Diblock copolymer containing two different magnetoelectric precursors separately segregated to the two microdomains have been shown to form well-ordered templated lamellar structures. Onion-type multilamellar ordered multiferroic (PZT/CoFe2O4) nanostructures have been induced by room temperature solvent annealing in a magnetic field oriented perpendicular to the plane of the film. The evolution of the onion-like microstructure has been characterized by AFM, MFM, and TEM. The structure retains lamellar periodicity observed at zero field. The onion structure is superparamagnetic above and antiferromagnetic below the blocking temperature. This templating process opens a route for nanometer-scale patterning of magnetic toroids by means of self-assembly on length scales that are difficult to obtain by standard lithography techniques.
Metal plasmas for the fabrication of nanostructures
Anders, Andre
A review is provided covering metal plasma production, theenergetic condensation of metal plasmas, and the formation ofnanostructures using such plasmas. Plasma production techniques includepulsed laser ablation, filtered cathodic arcs, and various forms ofionized physical vapor deposition, namely magnetron sputtering withionization of sputtered atoms in radio frequency discharges,self-sputtering, and high power impulse magnetron sputtering. Thediscussion of energetic condensation focuses on the control of kineticenergy by biasing and also includes considerations of the potentialenergy and the processes occurring at subplantation and implantation. Inthe final section on nanostructures, two different approaches arediscussed. In the top-down approach, the primary nanostructures arelithographically produced and metal plasma is used to coat or filltrenches and vias. Additionally, multilayers with nanosize periods(nanolaminates) can be produced. In the bottom-up approach, thermodynamicforces are used to fabricate nanocomposites and nanoporous materials bydecomposition and dealloying.
Nanowires, nanostructures and devices fabricated therefrom
Majumdar, Arun; Shakouri, Ali; Sands, Timothy D.; Yang, Peidong; Mao, Samuel S.; Russo, Richard E.; Feick, Henning; Weber, Eicke R.; Kind, Hannes; Huang, Michael; Yan, Haoquan; Wu, Yiying; Fan, Rong
One-dimensional nanostructures having uniform diameters of less than approximately 200 nm. These inventive nanostructures, which we refer to as "nanowires", include single-crystalline homostructures as well as heterostructures of at least two single-crystalline materials having different chemical compositions. Because single-crystalline materials are used to form the heterostructure, the resultant heterostructure will be single-crystalline as well. The nanowire heterostructures are generally based on a semiconducting wire wherein the doping and composition are controlled in either the longitudinal or radial directions, or in both directions, to yield a wire that comprises different materials. Examples of resulting nanowire heterostructures include a longitudinal heterostructure nanowire (LOHN) and a coaxial heterostructure nanowire (COHN).
Click modification of diazido acridine intercalators: a versatile route towards decorated DNA nanostructures.
Moradpour Hafshejani, Shahrbanou; Watson, Scott M D; Tuite, Eimer M; Pike, Andrew R
Diazido derivatives of 3,6-diamino acridine (proflavine) intercalate into DNA and undergo functionalization through click chemistry to form 1D nanostructures with redox active, conductive nanowire, and fluorescent properties. This two-step approach, intercalation followed by click modification allows for the controlled decoration of DNA nanostructures.
Helium entrapment in a nanostructured ferritic alloy
Edmondson, Philip D; Parish, Chad M; Zhang, Yanwen; Hallen, Dr Anders; Miller, Michael K
The nanostructured ferritic alloy 14YWT has been irradiated with He ions to simulate accumulation of He during the service life of a nuclear reactor to test the hypothesis that the large surface area for nanoclusters is a preferential nucleation site for bubbles. Transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography showed that high number densities of He bubbles were formed on the surface of nanoclusters and Ti(C,N) precipitates, and along grain boundaries and dislocations. At higher fluences, facetted bubbles are formed and it is postulated that the lowest energy state configuration is the truncated rhombic dodecahedron.
Method for forming cooperative binary ionic solids
Shelnutt, John A.; Martin, Kathleen E.; Wang, Zhongchun; Medforth, Craig J.
A nanostructured molecular unit and method for forming is described where a cationic porphyrin having an ethanolic substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity is combined with an anionic porphyrin having a sulfonate substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity to form by self-assembly a nanostructured molecular unit with a morphology comprising four dendritic elements connected at a central node.
Method for forming cooperative binary ionic solids
Shelnutt, John A.; Martin, Kathleen E.; Wang, Zhongchun; Medforth, Craig J.
A nanostructured molecular unit and method for forming is described where a cationic porphyrin having an ethanolic substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity is combined with an anionic porphyrin having a sulfonate substituent species and a metal in the porphyrin cavity to form by self-assembly a nanostructured molecular unit with a morphology comprising four dendritic elements connected at a central node.
Tissue Engineering Special Feature: A macroporous hydrogel for the coculture of neural progenitor and endothelial cells to form functional vascular networks in vivo
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ford, Millicent C.; Bertram, James P.; Royce Hynes, Sara; Michaud, Michael; Li, Qi; Young, Michael; Segal, Steven S.; Madri, Joseph A.; Lavik, Erin B.
A microvascular network is critical for the survival and function of most tissues. We have investigated the potential of neural progenitor cells to augment the formation and stabilization of microvascular networks in a previously uncharacterized three-dimensional macroporous hydrogel and the ability of this engineered system to develop a functional microcirculation in vivo. The hydrogel is synthesized by cross-linking polyethylene glycol with polylysine around a salt-leached polylactic-co-glycolic acid scaffold that is degraded in a sodium hydroxide solution. An open macroporous network is formed that supports the efficient formation of tubular structures by brain endothelial cells. After subcutaneous implantation of hydrogel cocultures in mice, blood flow in new microvessels was apparent at 2 weeks with perfused networks established on the surface of implants at 6 weeks. Compared to endothelial cells cultured alone, cocultures of endothelial cells and neural progenitor cells had a significantly greater density of tubular structures positive for platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 at the 6-week time point. In implant cross sections, the presence of red blood cells in vessel lumens confirmed a functional microcirculation. These findings indicate that neural progenitor cells promote the formation of endothelial cell tubes in coculture and the development of a functional microcirculation in vivo. We demonstrate a previously undescribed strategy for creating stable microvascular networks to support engineered tissues of desired parenchymal cell origin. microvasculature | neural stem cells | polymer | scaffold
Nature of radio feature formed by re-started jet activity in 3C 84 and its relation with γ-ray emissions
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nagai, H.; Chida, H.; Kino, M.; Orienti, M.; D'Ammando, F.; Giovannini, G.; Hiura, K.
Re-started jet activity occurred in the bright nearby radio source 3C 84 in about 2005. The re-started jet is forming a prominent component (namely C3) at the tip of jet. The component has showed an increase in radio flux density for more than 7 years while the radio spectrum remains optically thin. This suggests that the component is the head of a radio lobe including a hotspot where the particle acceleration occurs. Thus, 3C 84 is a unique laboratory to study the physical properties at the very early stage of radio source evolution. Another important aspect is that high energy and very high energy γ-ray emissions are detected from this source. The quest for the site of γ-ray emission is quite important to obtain a better understanding of γ-ray emission mechanisms in radio galaxies. In this paper, we review the observational results from very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) monitoring of 3C 84 reported in series of our previous papers. We argue the nature of re-started jet/radio lobe and its relation with high-energy emission.
Transmission electron microscopy studying of structural features of NiTi B2 phase formed under pulsed electron-beam impact
Meisner, Ludmila L.; Semin, Viktor O.; Gudimova, Ekaterina Y.; Neiman, Alexey A. Lotkov, Alexander I.; Ostapenko, Marina G.; Koval, Nikolai N.; Teresov, Anton D.
By transmission electron microscopy method the evolution of structural-phase states on a depth of close to equiatomic NiTi modified layer has been studied. Modification performed by pulse impact on its surface low-energy high-current electron beam (beam energy density 10 J/sm{sup 2}, 10 pulses, pulse duration 50mks). It is established that during the treatment in the layer thickness of 8–10 μm, the melting of primary B2 phase and contained therein as Ti2Ni phase particles occurs. The result is change in the concentration ratio of titanium and nickel in the direction of increasing titanium content, which was confirmed by X-ray analysis in the form of increased unit cell parameter B2 phase. Analysis of the electron diffraction pattern showed that the modified layer is characterized as a highly distorted structure on the basis of bcc lattice. Lattice distortions are maximal near the surface and extends to a depth of melt. In subjacent layer there is gradual decline lattice distortions is observed.
Ion-sensing properties of 1D vanadium pentoxide nanostructures
The application of one-dimensional (1D) V2O5·nH2O nanostructures as pH sensing material was evaluated. 1D V2O5·nH2O nanostructures were obtained by a hydrothermal method with systematic control of morphology forming different nanostructures: nanoribbons, nanowires and nanorods. Deposited onto Au-covered substrates, 1D V2O5·nH2O nanostructures were employed as gate material in pH sensors based on separative extended gate FET as an alternative to provide FET isolation from the chemical environment. 1D V2O5·nH2O nanostructures showed pH sensitivity around the expected theoretical value. Due to high pH sensing properties, flexibility and low cost, further applications of 1D V2O5·nH2O nanostructures comprise enzyme FET-based biosensors using immobilized enzymes. PMID:22709724
Crystalline Gaq3 Nanostructures: Preparation, Thermal Property and Spectroscopy Characterization
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yu, Ya-Wen; Cho, Chun-Pei; Perng, Tsong-Pyng
Crystalline Gaq3 1-D nanostructures and nanospheres could be fabricated by thermal evaporation under cold trap. The influences of the key process parameters on formation of the nanostructures were also investigated. It has been demonstrated that the morphology and dimension of the nanostructures were mainly controlled by working temperature and working pressure. One-dimensional nanostructures were fabricated at a lower working temperature, whereas nanospheres were formed at a higher working temperature. Larger nanospheres could be obtained when a higher working pressure was applied. The XRD, FTIR, and NMR analyses evidenced that the nanostructures mainly consisted of δ-phase Gaq3. Their DSC trace revealed two small exothermic peaks in addition to the melting endotherm. The one in lower temperature region was ascribed to a transition from δ to β phase, while another in higher temperature region could be identified as a transition from β to δ phase. All the crystalline nanostructures show similar PL spectra due to absence of quantum confinement effect. They also exhibited a spectral blue shift because of a looser interligand spacing and reduced orbital overlap in their δ-phase molecular structures.
Transverse Anderson localization of light near Dirac points of photonic nanostructures.
Deng, Hanying; Chen, Xianfeng; Malomed, Boris A; Panoiu, Nicolae C; Ye, Fangwei
We perform a comparative study of the Anderson localization of light beams in disordered layered photonic nanostructures that, in the limit of periodic layer distribution, possess either a Dirac point or a Bragg gap in the spectrum of the wavevectors. In particular, we demonstrate that the localization length of the Anderson modes increases when the width of the Bragg gap decreases, such that in the vanishingly small bandgap limit, namely when a Dirac point is formed, even extremely high levels of disorder are unable to localize the optical modes residing near the Dirac point. A comparative analysis of the key features of the propagation of Anderson modes formed in the Bragg gap or near the Dirac point is also presented. Our findings could provide valuable guidelines in assessing the influence of structural disorder on the functionality of a broad array of optical nanodevices.
Transverse Anderson localization of light near Dirac points of photonic nanostructures
Deng, Hanying; Chen, Xianfeng; Malomed, Boris A.; Panoiu, Nicolae C.; Ye, Fangwei
We perform a comparative study of the Anderson localization of light beams in disordered layered photonic nanostructures that, in the limit of periodic layer distribution, possess either a Dirac point or a Bragg gap in the spectrum of the wavevectors. In particular, we demonstrate that the localization length of the Anderson modes increases when the width of the Bragg gap decreases, such that in the vanishingly small bandgap limit, namely when a Dirac point is formed, even extremely high levels of disorder are unable to localize the optical modes residing near the Dirac point. A comparative analysis of the key features of the propagation of Anderson modes formed in the Bragg gap or near the Dirac point is also presented. Our findings could provide valuable guidelines in assessing the influence of structural disorder on the functionality of a broad array of optical nanodevices. PMID:26498634
Influence of meter-scale wind-formed features on the variability of the microwave brightness temperature around Dome C in Antarctica
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Picard, G.; Royer, A.; Arnaud, L.; Fily, M.
Space-borne passive microwave radiometers are widely used to retrieve information in snowy regions by exploiting the high sensitivity of microwave emission to snow properties. For the Antarctic Plateau, many studies presenting retrieval algorithms or numerical simulations have assumed, explicitly or not, that the subpixel-scale heterogeneity is negligible and that the retrieved properties were representative of whole pixels. In this paper, we investigate the spatial variations of brightness temperature over a range of a few kilometers in the Dome C area. Using ground-based radiometers towed by a vehicle, we collected brightness temperature at 11, 19 and 37 GHz at horizontal and vertical polarizations along transects with meter resolution. The most remarkable observation was a series of regular undulations of the signal with a significant amplitude reaching 10 K at 37 GHz and a quasi-period of 30-50 m. In contrast, the variability at longer length scales seemed to be weak in the investigated area, and the mean brightness temperature was close to SSM/I and WindSat satellite observations for all the frequencies and polarizations. To establish a link between the snow characteristics and the microwave emission undulations, we collected detailed snow grain size and density profiles at two points where opposite extrema of brightness temperature were observed. Numerical simulations with the DMRT-ML microwave emission model revealed that the difference in density in the upper first meter explained most of the brightness temperature variations. In addition, we found that these variations of density near the surface were linked to snow hardness. Patches of hard snow - probably formed by wind compaction - were clearly visible and covered as much as 39% of the investigated area. Their brightness temperature was higher than in normal areas. This result implies that the microwave emission measured by satellites over Dome C is more complex than expected and very likely depends on
Highly sensitive NIR PtSi/Si-nanostructure detectors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Hua-gao; Guo, Pei; Yuan, An-bo; Long, Fei; Li, Rui-zhi; Li, Ping; Li, Yi
We report a high external quantum efficiency (EQE) photodiode detector with PtSi/Si-nanostructures. Black silicon nanostructures were fabricated by metal-assist chemical etching (MCE), a 2 nm Pt layer was subsequently deposited on black silicon surface by DC magnetron sputtering system, and PtSi/Si-nanostructures were formed in vacuum annealing at 450 oC for 5 min. As the PtSi/Si-nanostructures presented a spiky shape, the absorption of incident light was remarkably enhanced for the repeat reflection and absorption. The breakdown voltage, dark current, threshold voltage and responsivity of the device were investigated to evaluate the performance of the PtSi/Si-nanostructures detector. The threshold voltage and dark currents of the PtSi/Si-nanostructure photodiode tends to be slightly higher than those of the standard diodes. The breakdown voltage remarkably was reduced because of existing avalanche breakdown in PtSi/Si-nanostructures. However, the photodiodes had high response at room temperature in near infrared region. At -5 V reverse bias voltage, the responsivity was 0.72 A/W in 1064 nm wavelength, and the EQE was 83.9%. By increasing the reverse bias voltage, the responsivity increased. At -60 V reverse bias voltage, the responsivity was 3.5 A/W, and the EQE was 407.5%, which means the quantum efficiency of PtSi/Si-nanostructure photodiodes was about 10 times higher than that of a standard diode. Future research includes how to apply this technology to enhance the NIR sensitivity of image sensors, such as Charge Coupled Devices (CCD).
Hybrid lipid-based nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dayani, Yasaman
then, using a sonication process, a uniform lipid bilayer that supports the incorporation of membrane proteins is formed. These bilayer-coated carbon nanotubes are highly dispersible and stable in aqueous solution, and they can be used in development of various biosensors and energy producing devices. In the other hybrid nanostructure, the lipid bilayer of a liposome is covalently anchored to a biocompatible poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) hydrogel core using double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) linkers. Release studies shows that nano-size hydrogel-anchored liposomes are exceptionally stable, and they can be used as biomimetic model membranes that mimic the connectivity between the cytoskeleton and the plasma membrane. After lipid bilayer removal, dsDNA linkers can provide programmable nanogels decorated with oligonucleotides with potential sites for further molecular assembly. These stable nanostructures can be useful for oligonucleotide and drug delivery applications. The developed hydrogel-anchored liposomes are exploited for encapsulation and intracellular delivery of therapeutic peptide. Peptides with anti-cancer properties are successfully encapsulated in hydrogel core of pH-sensitive liposomes during rehydration process. Liposomes release their cargo at acidic pH. Confocal microscopy confirms the intracellular delivery of liposomes through an endocytotic pathway.
One-dimensional metal oxide nanostructures for heterogeneous catalysis.
Zhang, Qian; Wang, Hsin-Yi; Jia, Xinli; Liu, Bin; Yang, Yanhui
Metal oxides are of paramount importance in heterogeneous catalysis as either supports or active phases. Controlled synthesis of one-dimensional (1D) metal oxide nanostructures has received enormous attention in heterogeneous catalysis due to the possibility of tailoring the properties of metal oxides by tuning their shapes, sizes, and compositions. This feature article highlights recent advances in shape controlled synthesis of 1D metal oxide nanostructures and their applications in heterogeneous catalysis, with the aim of introducing new insights into the heterogeneous catalyst design.
The effect of solvent on the morphology of ZnO nanostructure assembly by dielectrophoresis and its device applications.
La Ferrara, Vera; Pacheri Madathil, Aneesh; De Girolamo Del Mauro, Anna; Massera, Ettore; Polichetti, Tiziana; Rametta, Gabriella
Different zinc oxide nanostructured morphologies were grown on photolithographically patterned silicon/silicon dioxide substrates by dielectrophoresis technique using different solvents, such as water and ethanol, obtaining rod-like and net-like nanostructures, respectively. The formation of continuous nanostructures was confirmed by scanning electron microscopic, atomic force microscopic images, and electrical characterizations. The rod-like zinc oxide nanostructures were observed in the 10 μm gap between the fingers in the pattern, whereas net-like nanostructures were formed independently of microgap. A qualitative study about the mechanism for the assembly of zinc oxide continuous nanostructures was presented. Devices were electrically characterized, at room temperature, in controlled environment to measure the conductance behavior in ultraviolet and humidity environment. Devices based on zinc oxide nanostructures grown in ethanol medium show better responses under both ultraviolet and humidity, because of the net-like structure with high surface-to-volume ratio.
Metallic nanospheres embedded in nanowires initiated on nanostructures and methods for synthesis thereof
Zaidi, Saleem [Albuquerque, NM; Tringe, Joseph W [Walnut Creek, CA; Vanamu, Ganesh [Sunnyvale, CA; Prinja, Rajiv [Albuquerque, NM
A nanostructure includes a nanowire having metallic spheres formed therein, the spheres being characterized as having at least one of about a uniform diameter and about a uniform spacing there between. A nanostructure in another embodiment includes a substrate having an area with a nanofeature; and a nanowire extending from the nanofeature, the nanowire having metallic spheres formed therein, the spheres being characterized as having at least one of about a uniform diameter and about a uniform spacing there between. A method for forming a nanostructure is also presented. A method for reading and writing data is also presented. A method for preparing nanoparticles is also presented.
Nanostructures for peroxidases
Carmona-Ribeiro, Ana M.; Prieto, Tatiana; Nantes, Iseli L.
Peroxidases are enzymes catalyzing redox reactions that cleave peroxides. Their active redox centers have heme, cysteine thiols, selenium, manganese, and other chemical moieties. Peroxidases and their mimetic systems have several technological and biomedical applications such as environment protection, energy production, bioremediation, sensors and immunoassays design, and drug delivery devices. The combination of peroxidases or systems with peroxidase-like activity with nanostructures such as nanoparticles, nanotubes, thin films, liposomes, micelles, nanoflowers, nanorods and others is often an efficient strategy to improve catalytic activity, targeting, and reusability. PMID:26389124
High-throughput drawing and testing of metallic glass nanostructures.
Hasan, Molla; Kumar, Golden
Thermoplastic embossing of metallic glasses promises direct imprinting of metal nanostructures using templates. However, embossing high-aspect-ratio nanostructures faces unworkable flow resistance due to friction and non-wetting conditions at the template interface. Herein, we show that these inherent challenges of embossing can be reversed by thermoplastic drawing using templates. The flow resistance not only remains independent of wetting but also decreases with increasing feature aspect-ratio. Arrays of assembled nanotips, nanowires, and nanotubes with aspect-ratios exceeding 1000 can be produced through controlled elongation and fracture of metallic glass structures. In contrast to embossing, the drawing approach generates two sets of nanostructures upon final fracture; one set remains anchored to the metallic glass substrate while the second set is assembled on the template. This method can be readily adapted for high-throughput fabrication and testing of nanoscale tensile specimens, enabling rapid screening of size-effects in mechanical behavior.
Nanostructure templating using low temperature atomic layer deposition
Grubbs, Robert K [Albuquerque, NM; Bogart, Gregory R [Corrales, NM; Rogers, John A [Champaign, IL
Methods are described for making nanostructures that are mechanically, chemically and thermally stable at desired elevated temperatures, from nanostructure templates having a stability temperature that is less than the desired elevated temperature. The methods comprise depositing by atomic layer deposition (ALD) structural layers that are stable at the desired elevated temperatures, onto a template employing a graded temperature deposition scheme. At least one structural layer is deposited at an initial temperature that is less than or equal to the stability temperature of the template, and subsequent depositions made at incrementally increased deposition temperatures until the desired elevated temperature stability is achieved. Nanostructure templates include three dimensional (3D) polymeric templates having features on the order of 100 nm fabricated by proximity field nanopatterning (PnP) methods.
Self-assembled peptide nanostructures for functional materials
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sardan Ekiz, Melis; Cinar, Goksu; Aref Khalily, Mohammad; Guler, Mustafa O.
Nature is an important inspirational source for scientists, and presents complex and elegant examples of adaptive and intelligent systems created by self-assembly. Significant effort has been devoted to understanding these sophisticated systems. The self-assembly process enables us to create supramolecular nanostructures with high order and complexity, and peptide-based self-assembling building blocks can serve as suitable platforms to construct nanostructures showing diverse features and applications. In this review, peptide-based supramolecular assemblies will be discussed in terms of their synthesis, design, characterization and application. Peptide nanostructures are categorized based on their chemical and physical properties and will be examined by rationalizing the influence of peptide design on the resulting morphology and the methods employed to characterize these high order complex systems. Moreover, the application of self-assembled peptide nanomaterials as functional materials in information technologies and environmental sciences will be reviewed by providing examples from recently published high-impact studies.
Morphology and thermodynamic characteristics of selenium-containing nanostructures based on polymethacrylic acid
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Valueva, S. V.; Borovikova, L. N.; Vylegzhanina, M. E.; Sukhanova, T. E.
The morphology and thermodynamic characteristics of nanostructures formed as a result of the reduction of the selenium ion in a selenite-ascorbate redox system in water solutions of polymethacrylic acid were studied by molecular optics and atomic-force microscopy. The dependence of the morphology of the selenium-containing nanostructures on the mass selenium-to-polymer ratio (ν) in solution was determined. It was established that a large number of macromolecules (up to 4300) is adsorbed on the selenium nanoparticles, leading to the formation of nanostructures with super-high molecular mass and an almost spherical form. It was shown that the density of the nanostructures, as calculated on the basis of the experimental data on the size and molecular mass of the nanocomposite, depends substantially on the selenium concentrations in the solution. The thermodynamic state of the solutions of nanostructures is described.
Hydrolytic stability of the Si-O-Ti bonds in the chemical assembly of titania nanostructures on silica surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sosnov, Evgeni A.; Malkov, A. A.; Malygin, A. A.
The hydrolytic stability of the Si-O-Ti bonds in titania nanostructures on the surface of silica materials of different genesis is analyzed. The mechanism of hydrolysis is considered and the decisive role of structural and chemical features of silicas in the stability of titania nanostructures on their surface is demonstrated.
Mesoporous SnO2 nanostructures of ultrahigh surface areas by novel anodization.
Bian, Haidong; Tian, Yayuan; Lee, Chris; Yuen, Muk Fung; Zhang, WenJun; Li, Yang Yang
Here we report a novel type of hierarchical mesoporous SnO2 nanostructures fabricated by a facile anodization method in a novel electrolyte system (an ethylene glycol solution of H2C2O4/NH4F) followed by thermal annealing at a low temperature. The SnO2 nanostructures thus obtained feature highly porous nanosheets with mesoporous pores well below 10 nm, enabling a remarkably high surface area of 202.8 m2/g which represents one of the highest values reported to date on SnO2 nanostructures. The formation of this novel type of SnO2 nanostructures is ascribed to an interesting self-assembly mechanism of the anodic tin oxalate, which was found to be heavily impacted by the anodization voltage and water content in the electrolyte. The electrochemical measurements of the mesoporous SnO2 nanostructures indicate their promising applications as lithium-ion battery and supercapacitor electrode materials.
Size-dependent optical properties of TiO2 nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Solanki, Vanaraj; Majumder, Subrata; Mishra, Indrani; Joshi, Shalik R.; Kanjilal, Dinakar; Varma, Shikha
The size-dependent optical properties of the nanostructures created on the TiO2(110) surfaces, via low-energy ion-beam sputtering technique, have been investigated here. The crystalline nanostructures have been produced in off-normal geometry. A significant enhancement in UV and visible light absorption has been observed for TiO2 surfaces patterned with nanostructures. Moreover, this enhancement depends on the sizes of the nanostructures. Preferential sputtering of oxygen atoms, during ion beam irradiation, leads to the presence of excess Ti on the surface. Ti-rich zones thus formed can promote nucleation of self-assembled nanostructures on the TiO2(110) surface. These results have been observed in the absence of any dopant. The formation of crystalline TiO2 nanostructures and the development of Ti-rich zones on the surface, after sputtering, are responsible for the enhancement in visible absorbance seen in the present study. Although small-sized (∼10 nm) nanostructures display increased absorbance and a higher bandgap, compared to bulk TiO2, due to quantum effects, much higher absorbance with decreased bandgap is observed from larger-(∼50 nm) sized nanostructures. This enhancement in absorbance is due to the presence of well-developed (200 and 310) crystalline faces in bigger nanostructures.
Ion-beam assisted laser fabrication of sensing plasmonic nanostructures
Kuchmizhak, Aleksandr; Gurbatov, Stanislav; Vitrik, Oleg; Kulchin, Yuri; Milichko, Valentin; Makarov, Sergey; Kudryashov, Sergey
Simple high-performance, two-stage hybrid technique was developed for fabrication of different plasmonic nanostructures, including nanorods, nanorings, as well as more complex structures on glass substrates. In this technique, a thin noble-metal film on a dielectric substrate is irradiated by a single tightly focused nanosecond laser pulse and then the modified region is slowly polished by an accelerated argon ion (Ar+) beam. As a result, each nanosecond laser pulse locally modifies the initial metal film through initiation of fast melting and subsequent hydrodynamic processes, while the following Ar+-ion polishing removes the rest of the film, revealing the hidden topography features and fabricating separate plasmonic structures on the glass substrate. We demonstrate that the shape and lateral size of the resulting functional plasmonic nanostructures depend on the laser pulse energy and metal film thickness, while subsequent Ar+-ion polishing enables to vary height of the resulting nanostructures. Plasmonic properties of the fabricated nanostructures were characterized by dark-field micro-spectroscopy, Raman and photoluminescence measurements performed on single nanofeatures, as well as by supporting numerical calculations of the related electromagnetic near-fields and Purcell factors. The developed simple two-stage technique represents a new step towards direct large-scale laser-induced fabrication of highly ordered arrays of complex plasmonic nanostructures. PMID:26776569
Electrochemical characterization of organosilane-functionalized nanostructured ITO surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pruna, R.; Palacio, F.; López, M.; Pérez, J.; Mir, M.; Blázquez, O.; Hernández, S.; Garrido, B.
The electroactivity of nanostructured indium tin oxide (ITO) has been investigated for its further use in applications such as sensing biological compounds by the analysis of redox active molecules. ITO films were fabricated by using electron beam evaporation at different substrate temperatures and subsequently annealed for promoting their crystallization. The morphology of the deposited material was monitored by scanning electron microscopy, confirming the deposition of either thin films or nanowires, depending on the substrate temperature. Electrochemical surface characterization revealed a 45 % increase in the electroactive surface area of nanostructured ITO with respect to thin films, one third lower than the geometrical surface area variation determined by atomic force microscopy. ITO surfaces were functionalized with a model organic molecule known as 6-(ferrocenyl)hexanethiol. The chemical attachment was done by means of a glycidoxy compound containing a reactive epoxy group, the so-called 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxy-silane. ITO functionalization was useful for determining the benefits of nanostructuration on the surface coverage of active molecules. Compared to ITO thin films, an increase in the total peak height of 140 % was observed for as-deposited nanostructured electrodes, whereas the same measurement for annealed electrodes resulted in an increase of more than 400 %. These preliminary results demonstrate the ability of nanostructured ITO to increase the surface-to-volume ratio, conductivity and surface area functionalization, features that highly benefit the performance of biosensors.
Ion-beam assisted laser fabrication of sensing plasmonic nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kuchmizhak, Aleksandr; Gurbatov, Stanislav; Vitrik, Oleg; Kulchin, Yuri; Milichko, Valentin; Makarov, Sergey; Kudryashov, Sergey
Simple high-performance, two-stage hybrid technique was developed for fabrication of different plasmonic nanostructures, including nanorods, nanorings, as well as more complex structures on glass substrates. In this technique, a thin noble-metal film on a dielectric substrate is irradiated by a single tightly focused nanosecond laser pulse and then the modified region is slowly polished by an accelerated argon ion (Ar+) beam. As a result, each nanosecond laser pulse locally modifies the initial metal film through initiation of fast melting and subsequent hydrodynamic processes, while the following Ar+-ion polishing removes the rest of the film, revealing the hidden topography features and fabricating separate plasmonic structures on the glass substrate. We demonstrate that the shape and lateral size of the resulting functional plasmonic nanostructures depend on the laser pulse energy and metal film thickness, while subsequent Ar+-ion polishing enables to vary height of the resulting nanostructures. Plasmonic properties of the fabricated nanostructures were characterized by dark-field micro-spectroscopy, Raman and photoluminescence measurements performed on single nanofeatures, as well as by supporting numerical calculations of the related electromagnetic near-fields and Purcell factors. The developed simple two-stage technique represents a new step towards direct large-scale laser-induced fabrication of highly ordered arrays of complex plasmonic nanostructures.
Ion-beam assisted laser fabrication of sensing plasmonic nanostructures.
Kuchmizhak, Aleksandr; Gurbatov, Stanislav; Vitrik, Oleg; Kulchin, Yuri; Milichko, Valentin; Makarov, Sergey; Kudryashov, Sergey
Simple high-performance, two-stage hybrid technique was developed for fabrication of different plasmonic nanostructures, including nanorods, nanorings, as well as more complex structures on glass substrates. In this technique, a thin noble-metal film on a dielectric substrate is irradiated by a single tightly focused nanosecond laser pulse and then the modified region is slowly polished by an accelerated argon ion (Ar(+)) beam. As a result, each nanosecond laser pulse locally modifies the initial metal film through initiation of fast melting and subsequent hydrodynamic processes, while the following Ar(+)-ion polishing removes the rest of the film, revealing the hidden topography features and fabricating separate plasmonic structures on the glass substrate. We demonstrate that the shape and lateral size of the resulting functional plasmonic nanostructures depend on the laser pulse energy and metal film thickness, while subsequent Ar(+)-ion polishing enables to vary height of the resulting nanostructures. Plasmonic properties of the fabricated nanostructures were characterized by dark-field micro-spectroscopy, Raman and photoluminescence measurements performed on single nanofeatures, as well as by supporting numerical calculations of the related electromagnetic near-fields and Purcell factors. The developed simple two-stage technique represents a new step towards direct large-scale laser-induced fabrication of highly ordered arrays of complex plasmonic nanostructures.
Rapid synthesis of flower-like ZnO nanostructures.
Movahedi, Maryam; Mahjoub, Ali Reza; Yavari, Issa; Kowsari, Elaheh
Flower-like ZnO nanostructures were prepared via microwave assisted heating in the presence and absence of ionic liquid (IL). X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy SEM and room temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra have been employed for characterization of the products. The SEM image illustrates the surface of flower-like ZnO prepared in the presence of IL is not smooth and consists of nanoparticles with grain size of about 48 nm. PL spectra of flower-like ZnO in absence and presence IL reveal similar photoluminescence features: a strong UV, weak blue and green-yellow emissions peak at a bout 393 nm, 448 nm and 583 nm respectively. The strong UV photoluminescence and the weak green emission indicate the good crystallization quality of the flower-like nanostructure. The results show that imidazolium-based IL can be used as template for achieving very high level control over the size and shape of nanostructures. The approach developed in this work can potentially be used as a viable method for making various other uniform nanostructures in the presence of IL. This method is simple, fast, low-cost and suitable for large-scale production of ZnO nanostructures.
Making nanostructured pyrotechnics in a beaker
Gash, A E; Simpson, R L; Tillotson, T M; Satcher, J H; Hrubesh, L W
Controlling composition at the nanometer scale is well known to alter material properties in sometimes highly desirable and dramatic ways. In the field of energetic materials component distributions, particle size, and morphology, effect both sensitivity and reactivity performance. To date nanostructured energetic materials are largely unknowns with the exception of nanometer-sized reactive powders now being produced at a number of laboratories. We have invented a new method of making nanostructured energetic materials, specifically explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics, using sol-gel chemistry. The ease of this synthetic approach along with the inexpensive, stable, and benign nature of the metal precursors and solvents permit large-scale syntheses to be carried out. This approach can be accomplished using low cost processing methods. We will describe here, for the first time, this new synthetic route for producing metal-oxide-based pyrotechnics. The procedure employs the use of stable and inexpensive hydrated-metal inorganic salts and environmentally friendly solvents such as water and ethanol. The synthesis is straightforward and involves the dissolution the metal salt in a solvent followed by the addition of an epoxide, which induces gel formation in a timely manner. Experimental evidence suggests that the epoxide acts as an irreversible proton scavenger that induces the hydrated-metal species to undergo hydrolysis and condensation to form a sol that undergoes. further condensation to form a metal-oxide nanostructured gel. Both critical point and atmospheric drying have been employed to produce monolithic aerogels and xerogels, respectively. Using this method we have synthesized metal-oxide nanostructured materials using Fe{sup 3+}, Cr{sup 3+}, Al{sup 3+}, Ga{sup 3+}, In{sup 3+}, Hf{sup 4+}, Sn{sup 4+} and Zr{sup 4+} inorganic salts. Using related methods we have made nanostructured oxides of Mo, Ti, V, Co, Ni, Cu, Y , Ta, W, Pb, B, Pr, Er, Nd and Si. These
EDITORIAL: Nanostructured solar cells Nanostructured solar cells
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Greenham, Neil C.; Grätzel, Michael
Conversion into electrical power of even a small fraction of the solar radiation incident on the Earth's surface has the potential to satisfy the world's energy demands without generating CO2 emissions. Current photovoltaic technology is not yet fulfilling this promise, largely due to the high cost of the electricity produced. Although the challenges of storage and distribution should not be underestimated, a major bottleneck lies in the photovoltaic devices themselves. Improving efficiency is part of the solution, but diminishing returns in that area mean that reducing the manufacturing cost is absolutely vital, whilst still retaining good efficiencies and device lifetimes. Solution-processible materials, e.g. organic molecules, conjugated polymers and semiconductor nanoparticles, offer new routes to the low-cost production of solar cells. The challenge here is that absorbing light in an organic material produces a coulombically bound exciton that requires dissociation at a donor-acceptor heterojunction. A thickness of at least 100 nm is required to absorb the incident light, but excitons only diffuse a few nanometres before decaying. The problem is therefore intrinsically at the nano-scale: we need composite devices with a large area of internal donor-acceptor interface, but where each carrier has a pathway to the respective electrode. Dye-sensitized and bulk heterojunction cells have nanostructures which approach this challenge in different ways, and leading research in this area is described in many of the articles in this special issue. This issue is not restricted to organic or dye-sensitized photovoltaics, since nanotechnology can also play an important role in devices based on more conventional inorganic materials. In these materials, the electronic properties can be controlled, tuned and in some cases completely changed by nanoscale confinement. Also, the techniques of nanoscience are the natural ones for investigating the localized states, particularly at
Growth and reactions of SiOx/Si nanostructures on surface-templated molecule corrals.
Liu, Yi; Zhang, Zhanping; Wells, Matthew C; Beebe, Thomas P
Surface-templated nanostructures on the highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) basal plane were created by controlled Cs+- or Ga+)ion bombardment, followed by subsequent oxidation at high temperature, forming molecule corrals. The corrals were then used for template growth of SiOx/Si nanostructures. We demonstrate here that, for SiOx/Si nanostructures formed in controlled molecule corrals, the amount of silicon deposited on the surface is directly correlated with the corral density, making it possible to generate patterned SiOx/Si nanostructures on HOPG. Since the size, depth, position, and surface density of the nanostructures can be controlled on the HOPG, it is possible to produce surfaces with patterned or gradient functionalities for applications in fields such as biosensors, microelectronics, and biomaterials (e.g., neuron pathfinding). If desired, the SiOx structures can be reduced in size by etching in dilute HF, and further oxidation of the nanostructures is slow enough to provide plenty of time to functionalize them using ambient and solution reactions and to perform surface analysis. Organosilane monolayers on surface-templated SiOx/Si nanostructures were examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, time-of-flight secondary ion mas spectrometry, and atomic force microscopy. Silanes with long alkyl chains such as n-octadecyltrichlorosilane (C18) were found to both react on SiOx/Si nanostructures and to condense on the HOPG basal plane. Shorter-chain silanes, such as 11-bromoundicyltrimethoxysilane (C11) and 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (C3) were found to react preferentially with SiOx/Si nanostructures, not HOPG. The SiOx/Si nanostructures were also found to be stable toward multiple chemical reactions. Selective modification of SiOx/Si nanostructures on the HOPG basal plane is thus achievable.
The morphological and optical characteristics of femtosecond laser-induced large-area micro/nanostructures on GaAs, Si, and brass.
Huang, Min; Zhao, Fuli; Cheng, Ya; Xu, Ningsheng; Xu, Zhizhan
We systematically study the morphological and optical characteristics of the large-area micro/nanostructures produced by femtosecond laser irradiation on GaAs, Si, and brass. The experimental results demonstrate that along with the increase of laser fluence, significant changes in the surface morphology can be observed, and the most prominent phenomenon is the enlarging of the feature size of formed structures. Interestingly, by the fourier analysis of the treated areas, a peculiar phenomenon can be revealed: as laser fluence increases, the spatial frequencies of the structures change following a specific law--the allowed main frequencies are discrete, and appear to be a sequence of 2f, f, f/2, f/4, and f/8 (f is the fundamental frequency corresponding to the near-subwavelength ripples). In our opinion, the new frequency components of f/2, f/4, and f/8 originate in the 2-order, 4-order, and 8-order grating coupling. The law can offer us new insights for the evolving mechanisms of a variety of laser-induced micro/nanostructures in different scales. Furthermore, the optical characteristics of the treated surface are strongly dependent on the morphological characteristics that are mainly determined by laser fluence, such as the feature size of the micro/nanostructures, the topology of the surface morphology, the surface roughness, and the irregular degree of the formed structures. In general, as laser fluence increases in a moderate range, the specular reflectance of the structured surface would be significantly reduced. However, if laser fluence is excessive, the anti-specular-reflection effect would be much weakened. In ideal laser fluence, the micro/nanostructures produced by the near-infrared laser can achieve an ultra-low specular reflectance in the visible and near-infrared spectral region, which exhibits an attracting application prospect in the field of utilizing solar energy.
Silk fibroin nanostructured materials for biomedical applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mitropoulos, Alexander N.
Nanostructured biopolymers have proven to be promising to develop novel biomedical applications where forming structures at the nanoscale normally occurs by self-assembly. However, synthesizing these structures can also occur by inducing materials to transition into other forms by adding chemical cross-linkers, changing pH, or changing ionic composition. Understanding the generation of nanostructures in fluid environments, such as liquid organic solvents or supercritical fluids, has not been thoroughly examined, particularly those that are based on protein-based block-copolymers. Here, we examine the transformation of reconstituted silk fibroin, which has emerged as a promising biopolymer due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of functionalization, into submicron spheres and gel networks which offer applications in tissue engineering and advanced sensors. Two types of gel networks, hydrogels and aerogels, have small pores and large surface areas that are defined by their structure. We design and analyze silk nanoparticle formation using a microfluidic device while offering an application for drug delivery. Additionally, we provide a model and characterize hydrogel formation from micelles to nanoparticles, while investigating cellular response to the hydrogel in an in vitro cell culture model. Lastly, we provide a second model of nanofiber formation during near-critical and supercritical drying and characterize the silk fibroin properties at different drying pressures which, when acting as a stabilizing matrix, shows to improve the activity of entrapped enzymes dried at different pressures. This work has created new nanostructured silk fibroin forms to benefit biomedical applications that could be applied to other fibrous proteins.
Lithium insertion in nanostructured TiO(2)(B) architectures.
Dylla, Anthony G; Henkelman, Graeme; Stevenson, Keith J
Electric vehicles and grid storage devices have potentialto become feasible alternatives to current technology, but only if scientists can develop energy storage materials that offer high capacity and high rate capabilities. Chemists have studied anatase, rutile, brookite and TiO2(B) (bronze) in both bulk and nanostructured forms as potential Li-ion battery anodes. In most cases, the specific capacity and rate of lithiation and delithiation increases as the materials are nanostructured. Scientists have explained these enhancements in terms of higher surface areas, shorter Li(+) diffusion paths and different surface energies for nanostructured materials allowing for more facile lithiation and delithiation. Of the most studied polymorphs, nanostructured TiO2(B) has the highest capacity with promising high rate capabilities. TiO2(B) is able to accommodate 1 Li(+) per Ti, giving a capacity of 335 mAh/g for nanotubular and nanoparticulate TiO2(B). The TiO2(B) polymorph, discovered in 1980 by Marchand and co-workers, has been the focus of many recent studies regarding high power and high capacity anode materials with potential applications for electric vehicles and grid storage. This is due to the material's stability over multiple cycles, safer lithiation potential relative to graphite, reasonable capacity, high rate capability, nontoxicity, and low cost (Bruce, P. G.; Scrosati, B.; Tarascon, J.-M. Nanomaterials for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries. Angew. Chem., Int. Ed.2008, 47, 2930-2946). One of the most interesting properties of TiO2(B) is that both bulk and nanostructured forms lithiate and delithiate through a surface redox or pseudocapacitive charging mechanism, giving rise to stable high rate charge/discharge capabilities in the case of nanostructured TiO2(B). When other polymorphs of TiO2 are nanostructured, they still mainly intercalate lithium through a bulk diffusion-controlled mechanism. TiO2(B) has a unique open crystal structure and low energy Li
Structural differences between capped GaSb nanostructures grown by Stranski-Krastanov and droplet epitaxy growth modes
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
DeJarld, Matt; Yan, Lifan; Luengo-Kovac, Marta; Sih, Vanessa; Millunchick, Joanna
Droplet epitaxy (DE) has emerged as an alternative to Stranski-Krastanov (SK) as a method for epitaxial nanostructure formation. We find significant structural differences of similar sized nanostructures embedded in GaAs between the two methods. Atomic force microscopy and atom probe tomography measurements reveal that uncapped and capped SK structures resemble each other. However, the DE nanostructures appear as rings topographically but are quantum dots compositionally. A GaSb wetting layer is present regardless of the growth method and shares a nearly identical Sb concentration profile. DE nanostructures are shown to have a lower Sb concentration, and transmission electron microscopy measurements reveal that they produce less strain on the capping layer. Despite significant structural differences, SK and DE nanostructures exhibit the same photoluminescence response, suggesting that the emission is from a shared feature such as the wetting layer, rather than the nanostructures.
Composite, nanostructured, super-hydrophobic material
D'Urso, Brian R.; Simpson, John T.
A hydrophobic disordered composite material having a protrusive surface feature includes a recessive phase and a protrusive phase, the recessive phase having a higher susceptibility to a preselected etchant than the protrusive phase, the composite material having an etched surface wherein the protrusive phase protrudes from the surface to form a protrusive surface feature, the protrusive feature being hydrophobic.
Mechanical design of DNA nanostructures.
Castro, Carlos E; Su, Hai-Jun; Marras, Alexander E; Zhou, Lifeng; Johnson, Joshua
Structural DNA nanotechnology is a rapidly emerging field that has demonstrated great potential for applications such as single molecule sensing, drug delivery, and templating molecular components. As the applications of DNA nanotechnology expand, a consideration of their mechanical behavior is becoming essential to understand how these structures will respond to physical interactions. This review considers three major avenues of recent progress in this area: (1) measuring and designing mechanical properties of DNA nanostructures, (2) designing complex nanostructures based on imposed mechanical stresses, and (3) designing and controlling structurally dynamic nanostructures. This work has laid the foundation for mechanically active nanomachines that can generate, transmit, and respond to physical cues in molecular systems.
Intermediate Bandgap Solar Cells From Nanostructured Silicon
Black, Marcie
This project aimed to demonstrate increased electronic coupling in silicon nanostructures relative to bulk silicon for the purpose of making high efficiency intermediate bandgap solar cells using silicon. To this end, we formed nanowires with controlled crystallographic orientation, small diameter, <111> sidewall faceting, and passivated surfaces to modify the electronic band structure in silicon by breaking down the symmetry of the crystal lattice. We grew and tested these silicon nanowires with <110>-growth axes, which is an orientation that should produce the coupling enhancement.
Method of Making Large Area Nanostructures
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Marks, Alvin M.
A method which enables the high speed formation of nanostructures on large area surfaces is described. The method uses a super sub-micron beam writer (Supersebter). The Supersebter uses a large area multi-electrode (Spindt type emitter source) to produce multiple electron beams simultaneously scanned to form a pattern on a surface in an electron beam writer. A 100,000 x 100,000 array of electron point sources, demagnified in a long electron beam writer to simultaneously produce 10 billion nano-patterns on a 1 meter squared surface by multi-electron beam impact on a 1 cm squared surface of an insulating material is proposed.
Numerical Simulation of Nanostructure Growth
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hwang, Helen H.; Bose, Deepak; Govindan, T. R.; Meyyappan, M.
Nanoscale structures, such as nanowires and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), are often grown in gaseous or plasma environments. Successful growth of these structures is defined by achieving a specified crystallinity or chirality, size or diameter, alignment, etc., which in turn depend on gas mixture ratios. pressure, flow rate, substrate temperature, and other operating conditions. To date, there has not been a rigorous growth model that addresses the specific concerns of crystalline nanowire growth, while demonstrating the correct trends of the processing conditions on growth rates. Most crystal growth models are based on the Burton, Cabrera, and Frank (BCF) method, where adatoms are incorporated into a growing crystal at surface steps or spirals. When the supersaturation of the vapor is high, islands nucleate to form steps, and these steps subsequently spread (grow). The overall bulk growth rate is determined by solving for the evolving motion of the steps. Our approach is to use a phase field model to simulate the growth of finite sized nanowire crystals, linking the free energy equation with the diffusion equation of the adatoms. The phase field method solves for an order parameter that defines the evolving steps in a concentration field. This eliminates the need for explicit front tracking/location, or complicated shadowing routines, both of which can be computationally expensive, particularly in higher dimensions. We will present results demonstrating the effect of process conditions, such as substrate temperature, vapor supersaturation, etc. on the evolving morphologies and overall growth rates of the nanostructures.
Hierarchically nanostructured barium sulfate fibers.
Romero-Ibarra, Issis C; Rodríguez-Gattorno, Geonel; García-Sánchez, Mario F; Sánchez-Solís, Antonio; Manero, Octavio
BaSO(4) nanostructures with controlled morphologies were successfully produced via one-step process through precipitation of BaSO(4) in aqueous and organic media. The synthesis is carried out by mixing solutions of BaCl(2) and Na(2)SO(4) in presence of EDTA (disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) at room temperature. The influence of the reaction conditions such as initial reactants concentration, pH, EDTA/[Ba(2+)] ratio and aging on the BaSO(4) nanoparticles organization is studied. Using EDTA in aqueous media, spherical secondary particles of 500 nm diameter are obtained, which are formed by 4 nm size primary particles. With dimethyl sulfoxide and small amounts of water (5%) and EDTA, the aging process allows the production of long homogeneous fibers, related to hierarchical organization of BaSO(4) nanoparticles. Direct observation of self-assembling of primary particles by HRTEM allows proposing a mechanism for fiber formation, which is based on multipolar attractions that lead to a brick-by-brick organization along a preferential orientation. Results evidence the role of EDTA as controlling agent of the morphology and primary and secondary mean particle size.
Rapid Solid-State Metathesis Routes to Nanostructured Silicon-Germainum
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Kaner, Richard B. (Inventor); Bux, Sabah K. (Inventor); Fleurial, Jean-Pierre (Inventor); Rodriguez, Marc (Inventor)
Methods for producing nanostructured silicon and silicon-germanium via solid state metathesis (SSM). The method of forming nanostructured silicon comprises the steps of combining a stoichiometric mixture of silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) and an alkaline earth metal silicide into a homogeneous powder, and initating the reaction between the silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) with the alkaline earth metal silicide. The method of forming nanostructured silicon-germanium comprises the steps of combining a stoichiometric mixture of silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) and a germanium based precursor into a homogeneous powder, and initiating the reaction between the silicon tetraiodide (SiI4) with the germanium based precursors.
Electronic properties of complex nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhu, Zhen
Nanostructured materials have brought an unprecedented opportunity for advancement in many fields of human endeavor and in applications. Nanostructures are a new research field which may revolutionize people's everyday life. In the Thesis, I have used theoretical methods including density functional theory (DFT), molecular dynamic simulations (MD) and tight-binding methods to explore the structural, mechanical and electronic properties of various nanomaterials. In all this, I also paid attention to potential applications of these findings. First, I will briefly introduce the scientific background of this Thesis, including the motivation for the study of a boron enriched aluminum surface, novel carbon foam structures and my research interest in 2D electronics. Then I will review the computational techniques I used in the study, mostly DFT methods. In Chapter 3, I introduce an effective way to enhance surface hardness of aluminum by boron nanoparticle implantation. Using boron dimers to represent the nanoparticles, the process of boron implantation is modeled in a molecular dynamics simulation of bombarding the aluminum surface by energetic B 2 molecules. Possible metastable structures of boron-coated aluminum surface are identified. Within these structures, I find that boron atoms prefer to stay in the subsurface region of aluminum. By modeling the Rockwell indentation process, boron enriched aluminum surface is found to be harder than the pristine aluminum surface by at least 15%. In Chapter 4, I discuss novel carbon structures, including 3D carbon foam and related 2D slab structures. Carbon foam contains both sp 2 and sp3 hybridized carbon atoms. It forms a 3D honeycomb lattice with a comparable stability to fullerenes, suggesting possible existence of such carbon foam structures. Although the bulk 3D foam structure is semiconducting, an sp2 terminated carbon surface could maintain a conducting channel even when passivated by hydrogen. To promote the experimental
Triphenylalanine peptides self-assemble into nanospheres and nanorods that are different from the nanovesicles and nanotubes formed by diphenylalanine peptides.
Guo, Cong; Luo, Yin; Zhou, Ruhong; Wei, Guanghong
Understanding the nature of the self-assembly of peptide nanostructures at the molecular level is critical for rational design of functional bio-nanomaterials. Recent experimental studies have shown that triphenylalanine(FFF)-based peptides can self-assemble into solid plate-like nanostructures and nanospheres, which are different from the hollow nanovesicles and nanotubes formed by diphenylalanine(FF)-based peptides. In spite of extensive studies, the assembly mechanism and the molecular basis for the structural differences between FFF and FF nanostructures remain poorly understood. In this work, we first investigate the assembly process and the structural features of FFF nanostructures using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, and then compare them with FF nanostructures. We find that FFF peptides spontaneously assemble into solid nanometer-sized nanospheres and nanorods with substantial β-sheet contents, consistent with the structural properties of hundred-nanometer-sized FFF nano-plates characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy. Distinct from the formation mechanism of water-filled FF nanovesicles and nanotubes reported in our previous study, intermediate bilayers are not observed during the self-assembly process of FFF nanospheres and nanorods. The peptides in FFF nanostructures are predominantly anti-parallel-aligned, which can form larger sizes of β-sheet-like structures than the FF counterparts. In contrast, FF peptides exhibit lipid-like assembly behavior and assemble into bilayered nanostructures. Furthermore, although the self-assembly of FF and FFF peptides is mostly driven by side chain-side chain (SC-SC) aromatic stacking interactions, the main chain-main chain (MC-MC) interactions also play an important role in the formation of fine structures of the assemblies. The delicate interplay between MC-MC and SC-SC interactions results in the different nanostructures formed by the two peptides. These findings provide new insights into the structure
Alternative nanostructures for thermophones
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mayo, Nathanael; Aliev, Ali; Baughman, Ray
There is a large promise for thermophones in high power sonar arrays, flexible loudspeakers, and noise cancellation devices. So far, freestanding aerogel-like carbon nanotube sheets demonstrate the best performance as a thermoacoustic heat source. However, the limited accessibility of large size freestanding carbon nanotube sheets and other even more exotic materials published recently, hampers the field. We present here new alternative materials for a thermoacoustic heat source with high energy conversion efficiency, additional functionalities, environmentally friendly and cost effective production technologies. We discuss the thermoacoustic performance of alternative nanoscale materials and compare their spectral and power dependencies of sound pressure in air. The study presented here focuses on engineering thermal gradients in the vicinity of nanostructures and subsequent heat dissipation processes from the interior of encapsulated thermoacoustic projectors. Applications of thermoacoustic projectors for high power SONAR arrays, sound cancellation, and optimal thermal design, regarding enhanced energy conversion efficiency, are discussed.
Novel silicon phases and nanostructures for solar energy conversion
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wippermann, Stefan; He, Yuping; Vörös, Márton; Galli, Giulia
Silicon exhibits a large variety of different bulk phases, allotropes, and composite structures, such as, e.g., clathrates or nanostructures, at both higher and lower densities compared with diamond-like Si-I. New Si structures continue to be discovered. These novel forms of Si offer exciting prospects to create Si based materials, which are non-toxic and earth-abundant, with properties tailored precisely towards specific applications. We illustrate how such novel Si based materials either in the bulk or as nanostructures may be used to significantly improve the efficiency of solar energy conversion devices.
Process flow to integrate nanostructures on silicon grass in surface micromachined systems
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mehner, H.; Müller, L.; Biermann, S.; Hänschke, F.; Hoffmann, M.
The process flow to integrate metallic nanostructures in surface micromachining processes is presented. The nanostructures are generated by evaporation of microstructured silicon grass with metal. The process flow is based on the lift-off of a thin amorphous silicon layer deposited using a CVD process. All steps feature a low temperature load beneath 120 °C and high compatibility with many materials as only well-established chemicals are used. As a result metallic nanostructures usable for optical applications can be generated as part of multilayered microsystems fabricated in surface micromachining.
Ion-implanted Si-nanostructures buried in a SiO{sub 2} substrate studied with soft-x-ray spectroscopy
Williams, R.; Rubensson, J.E.; Eisebitt, S.
In recent years silicon nanostructures have gained great interest because of their optical luminescence, which immediately suggests several applications, e.g., in optoelectronic devices. Nanostructures are also investigated because of the fundamental physics involved in the underlying luminescence mechanism, especially attention has been drawn to the influence of the reduced dimensions on the electronic structure. The forming of stable and well-defined nanostructured materials is one goal of cluster physics. For silicon nanostructures this goal has so far not been reached, but various indirect methods have been established, all having the problem of producing less well defined and/or unstable nanostructures. Ion implantation and subsequent annealing is a promising new technique to overcome some of these difficulties. In this experiment the authors investigate the electronic structure of ion-implanted silicon nanoparticles buried in a stabilizing SiO{sub 2} substrate. Soft X-ray emission (SXE) spectroscopy features the appropriate information depth to investigate such buried structures. SXE spectra to a good approximation map the local partial density of occupied states (LPDOS) in broad band materials like Si. The use of monochromatized synchrotron radiation (MSR) allows for selective excitation of silicon atoms in different chemical environments. Thus, the emission from Si atom sites in the buried structure can be separated from contributions from the SiO{sub 2} substrate. In this preliminary study strong size dependent effects are found, and the electronic structure of the ion-implanted nanoparticles is shown to be qualitatively different from porous silicon. The results can be interpreted in terms of quantum confinement and chemical shifts due to neighboring oxygen atoms at the interface to SiO{sub 2}.
Wang, Lumin; Lu, Wei
Energetic ion bombardment can lead to the development of complex and diverse nanostructures on or beneath the material surface through induced self-organization processes. These self-organized structures have received particular interest recently as promising candidates as simple, inexpensive, and large area patterns, whose optical, electronic and magnetic properties are different from those in the bulk materials [1-5]. Compared to the low mass efficiency production rate of lithographic methods, these self-organized approaches display new routes for the fabrication of nanostructures over large areas in a short processing time at the nanoscale, beyond the limits of lithography [1,4]. Although it is believed that surface nanostructure formation is based on the morphological instability of the sputtered surface, driven by a kinetic balance between roughening and smoothing actions [6,7], the fundamental mechanisms and experimental conditions for the formation of these nanostructures has still not been well established, the formation of the 3-D naopatterns beneath the irradiated surface especially needs more exploration. During the last funding period, we have focused our efforts on irradiation-induced nanostructures in a broad range of materials. These structures have been studied primarily through in situ electron microscopy during electron or ion irradiation. In particular, we have performed studies on 3-D void/bubble lattices (in metals and CaF2), embedded sponge-like porous structure with uniform nanofibers in irradiated semiconductors (Ge, GaSb, and InSb), 2-D highly ordered pattern of nanodroplets (on the surface of GaAs), hexagonally ordered nanoholes (on the surface of Ge), and 1-D highly ordered ripple and periodic arrays (of Cu nanoparticles) [3,8-11]. The amazing common feature in those nanopatterns is the uniformity of the size of nanoelements (nanoripples, nanodots, nanovoids or nanofibers) and the distance separating them. Our research focuses on the
Nanostructured Materials for Renewable Energy
This factsheet describes a research project whose overall objective is to advance the fundamental understanding of novel photoelectronic organic device structures integrated with inorganic nanostructures, while also expanding the general field of nanomaterials for renewable energy devices and systems.
Synthesis and properties of graphene oxide/graphene nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kapitanova, O. O.; Panin, G. N.; Baranov, A. N.; Kang, T. W.
We report preparation of graphene oxide (GO)/graphene (G) nanostructures and their structural, optical and electrical properties. GO was synthesized through oxidation of graphite by using the modified Hummer's method, in which a long oxidation time was combined with a highly effective method for purifying the reaction products. The obtained GO was partially reduced (r-GO) by adding ascorbic acid and thermal annealing. An electrical reduction/oxidation process in r-GO under an electric field was used to form and control the GO/G nanostructures and the potential barrier at the interface. After the treatment, the ratio of the intensity of peak G (1578 cm-1) to that of peak D (1357 cm-1) in Raman spectra of the samples is increased, which is attributed to an increase in the ratio between the sp2 and sp3 regions. The electrical and the luminescence characteristics of the GO/G nanostructures were investigated.
Zinc oxide's hierarchical nanostructure and its photocatalytic properties
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kanjwal, Muzafar A.; Sheikh, Faheem A.; Barakat, Nasser A. M.; Li, Xiaoqiang; Kim, Hak Yong; Chronakis, Ioannis S.
In this study, a new hierarchical nanostructure that consists of zinc oxide (ZnO) was produced by the electrospinning process followed by a hydrothermal technique. First, electrospinning of a colloidal solution that consisted of zinc nanoparticles, zinc acetate dihydrate and poly(vinyl alcohol) was performed to produce polymeric nanofibers embedding solid nanoparticles. Calcination of the obtained electrospun nanofiber mats in air at 500 °C for 90 min produced pure ZnO nanofibers with rough surfaces. The rough surface strongly enhanced outgrowing of ZnO nanobranches when a specific hydrothermal technique was used. Methylene blue dihydrate was used to check the photocatalytic ability of the produced nanostructures. The results indicated that the hierarchical nanostructure had a better performance than the other form.
Wear Behavior of Nanostructured Hypoeutectic Fe-B Alloy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fu, Licai; Yang, Jun; Zhou, Lingping; Liu, Weimin
The wear behavior of nanostructured hypoeutectic Fe94.3B5.7 alloy was investigated in comparison with coarse grained counterpart. The friction coefficient of the Fe94.3B5.7 alloy changed slightly with grain size. While the wear rate decreased as the grain size decreased to nano scale. Both Fe2O3 and Fe2SiO4 oxides were found on the worn surfaces in the nanostructured Fe94.3B5.7 alloy, but only a few oxide films were observed for the coarse grained counterpart. These results suggested that the nanostructured eutectic was conducive to forming oxide films on the worn surface of the Fe94.3B5.7 alloy, and improved the wear resistance.
Tunable morphologies of indium tin oxide nanostructures using nanocellulose templates
Aytug, Tolga; Meyer, III, Harry M.; Ozcan, Soydan; Lu, Yuan; Poole, II, Joseph E.
Metal oxide nanostructures have emerged as an important family of materials for various device applications. The performance is highly dependent on the morphology of the metal oxide nanostructures. Here we report a completely green approach to prepare indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles using only water and cellulose nanofibril (CNF) in addition to the ITO precursor. Surface hydroxyl groups of the CNFs allow for efficient conjugation of ITO precursors (e.g., metal ions) in aqueous solution. The resulting CNF film allows for controllable spatial arrangement of metal oxide precursors, which results in tunable particle morphology (e.g., nanowires, nanospheres, and octahedral nanoparticles). These ITO nanoparticles can also form conductive and transparent ITO films. This study opens a new perspective on developing metal oxide nanostructures.
Tunable morphologies of indium tin oxide nanostructures using nanocellulose templates
Aytug, Tolga; Meyer, III, Harry M.; Ozcan, Soydan; ...
Metal oxide nanostructures have emerged as an important family of materials for various device applications. The performance is highly dependent on the morphology of the metal oxide nanostructures. Here we report a completely green approach to prepare indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles using only water and cellulose nanofibril (CNF) in addition to the ITO precursor. Surface hydroxyl groups of the CNFs allow for efficient conjugation of ITO precursors (e.g., metal ions) in aqueous solution. The resulting CNF film allows for controllable spatial arrangement of metal oxide precursors, which results in tunable particle morphology (e.g., nanowires, nanospheres, and octahedral nanoparticles). Thesemore » ITO nanoparticles can also form conductive and transparent ITO films. This study opens a new perspective on developing metal oxide nanostructures.« less
Noble-metal nanostructures on carburized W(110)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bachmann, Magdalena; Memmel, Norbert; Bertel, Erminald
Noble metal nanostructures of Au, Ag and Cu were prepared on two types of carbon-modified W(110) surfaces-R(15 × 12) and R(15 × 3)-and investigated by means of scanning tunneling microscopy. For all deposited metals qualitatively the same behaviour is observed: On the R(15 × 12)-template always isotropic clusters are formed. In contrast, on the R(15 × 3)-substrate the anisotropy of the nanostructures can be tuned from clusters at low temperatures via thin nanowires to thicker nanobars at high deposition temperatures. At intermediate temperatures on the R(15 × 3) the anisotropic Au nanowires arrange themselves into straight lines along domain boundaries induced by deposition of the Au metal. Similarities and differences to Au nanostructures as recently reported by Varykhalov et al. [A. Varykhalov, O. Rader, W. Gudat. Physical Review B 77, 035412 (2008).] are discussed.
Metallic glass nanostructures of tunable shape and composition.
Liu, Yanhui; Liu, Jingbei; Sohn, Sungwoo; Li, Yanglin; Cha, Judy J; Schroers, Jan
Metals of hybrid nano-/microstructures are of broad technological and fundamental interests. Manipulation of shape and composition on the nanoscale, however, is challenging, especially for multicomponent alloys such as metallic glasses. Although top-down approaches have demonstrated nanomoulding, they are limited to very few alloy systems. Here we report a facile method to synthesize metallic glass nanoarchitectures that can be applied to a broad range of glass-forming alloys. This strategy, using multitarget carousel oblique angle deposition, offers the opportunity to achieve control over size, shape and composition of complex alloys at the nanoscale. As a consequence, nanostructures of programmable three-dimensional shapes and tunable compositions are realized on wafer scale for metallic glasses including the marginal glass formers. Realizing nanostructures in a wide compositional range allows chemistry optimization for technological usage of metallic glass nanostructures, and also enables the fundamental study on size, composition and fabrication dependences of metallic glass properties.
Stabilizing nanostructures in metals using grain and twin boundary architectures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lu, K.
Forming alloys with impurity elements is a routine method for modifying the properties of metals. An alternative approach involves the incorporation of interfaces into the crystalline lattice to enhance the metal's properties without changing its chemical composition. The introduction of high-density interfaces in nanostructured materials results in greatly improved strength and hardness; however, interfaces at the nanoscale show low stability. In this Review, I discuss recent developments in the stabilization of nanostructured metals by modifying the architectures of their interfaces. The amount, structure and distribution of several types of interfaces, such as high- and low-angle grain boundaries and twin boundaries, are discussed. I survey several examples of materials with nanotwinned and nanolaminated structures, as well as with gradient nanostructures, describing the techniques used to produce such samples and tracing their exceptional performances back to the nanoscale architectures of their interfaces.
Nanostructure-induced DNA condensation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhou, Ting; Llizo, Axel; Wang, Chen; Xu, Guiying; Yang, Yanlian
The control of the DNA condensation process is essential for compaction of DNA in chromatin, as well as for biological applications such as nonviral gene therapy. This review endeavours to reflect the progress of investigations on DNA condensation effects of nanostructure-based condensing agents (such as nanoparticles, nanotubes, cationic polymer and peptide agents) observed by using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and other techniques. The environmental effects on structural characteristics of nanostructure-induced DNA condensates are also discussed.
Intrinsic instability of thin liquid films on nanostructured surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rokoni, Arif; Hu, Han; Sun, Liyong; Sun, Ying
The instability of a thin liquid film on nanostructures is not well understood but is important in liquid-vapor two-phase heat transfer (e.g., thin film evaporation and boiling), lubrication, and nanomanufacturing. In thin film evaporation, the comparison between the non-evaporating film thickness and the critical film breakup thickness determines the stability of the film: the film becomes unstable when the critical film breakup thickness is larger than the non-evaporating film thickness. In this study, a closed-form model is developed to predict the critical breakup thickness of a thin liquid film on 2D periodic nanostructures based on minimization of system free energy in the limit of a liquid monolayer. Molecular dynamics simulations are performed for water thin films on square nanostructures of varying depth and wettability and the simulations agree with the model predictions. The results show that the critical film breakup thickness increases with the nanostructure depth and the surface wettability. The model developed here enables the prediction of the minimum film thickness for stable thin film evaporation on a given nanostructure.
Intrinsic instability of thin liquid films on nanostructured surfaces
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sun, L.; Hu, H.; Rokoni, A. A.; Sun, Y.
The instability of a thin liquid film on nanostructures is not well understood but is important in liquid-vapor two-phase heat transfer (e.g., thin film evaporation and boiling), lubrication, and nanomanufacturing. In thin film evaporation, the comparison between the non-evaporating film thickness and the critical film breakup thickness determines the stability of the film: the film becomes unstable when the critical film breakup thickness is larger than the non-evaporating film thickness. In this study, a closed-form model is developed to predict the critical breakup thickness of a thin liquid film on 2D periodic nanostructures based on the minimization of system free energy in the limit of a liquid monolayer. Molecular dynamics simulations are performed for water thin films on square nanostructures of varying depth and wettability, and the simulations agree with the model predictions. The results show that the critical film breakup thickness increases with the nanostructure depth and the surface wettability. The model developed here enables the prediction of the minimum film thickness for a stable thin film evaporation on a given nanostructure.
Properties of nanostructured silicon-on-insulator electric force microscopy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tevaarwerk, Emma Rosamond
This thesis presents research on the application of electric force microscopy (EFM) to the study of semiconductor nanostructures. Electric force microscopy is a relatively recent and powerful tool for measuring quantities such as the local work function, charge and dielectric constant of nanostructured materials. We begin with a review of the general concepts of scanning probe microscopy, followed by an introduction to and in-depth discussion of EFM. The Digital Instruments Atomic Force Microscope and the modifications made to it for this thesis work are described. We continue with a discussion of the semiconductor nanostructure fabrication techniques used to make ultra-thin silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrates and self-assembled silicon germanium (SiGe) nanostructures. We demonstrate using EFM that SiGe domes grown on ultra-thin SOI form is such a way to electrically isolate themselves from their surroundings. EFM is demonstrated as an excellent probe of large in-plane resistivities in samples with floating-gate geometries such as SOI. Improved data analysis techniques are demonstrated in interpretation of EFM images of self-assembled SiGe nanostructures. Finally, van der Pauw measurements show that the two-dimensional resistivity of ultra-thin silicon layers is largely determined by its oxide interfaces rather than by the bulk doping of the layer. We discuss possible conduction mechanisms in ultra-thin SOI films during EFM measurements.
Nanostructure formation in the lecithin/isooctane/water system.
Koifman, Naama; Schnabel-Lubovsky, Maya; Talmon, Yeshayahu
We present here for the first time a study of the self-assembled nanostructures in the lecithin/isooctane/water system by direct-imaging techniques, namely, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and cryogenic scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM). Along the dilution line [water]/[lecithin] = 5, we identified a nanostructural development with the increase of lecithin concentration. The system changes from a single reverse micellar phase, through a reverse micellar phase coexisting with a lamellar phase, and finally to a reverse liquid crystalline cubic phase and a lamellar phase. We compared the nanostructures formed when phosphatidylcholine rather than naturally occurring lecithin is used and found that both phase behavior and nanostructure are significantly different. The use of the two complementary cryo-EM techniques proved very efficient in the nanostructural characterization of the system. We also performed small-angle X-ray scattering to confirm our findings. Since the system is very sensitive to changes in composition, the cryo-EM specimens were prepared in a Controlled Environment Vitrification System (CEVS) that has been modified for our specimen preparation needs. We were able to overcome the challenges involved in directly imaging this nonaqueous (oil-rich), concentrated complex liquid systems, thus extending the usefulness of those characterization techniques.
Ultraflexible nanostructures and implications for future nanorobots
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cohn, Robert W.; Panchapakesan, Balaji
Several high aspect ratio nanostructures have been made by capillary force directed self-assembly including polymeric nanofiber air-bridges, trampoline-like membranes, microsphere-beaded nanofibers, and intermetallic nanoneedles. Arrays of polymer air-bridges form in seconds by simply hand brushing a bead of polymeric liquid over an array of micropillars. The domination of capillary force that is thinning unstable capillary bridges leads to uniform arrays of nanofiber air-bridges. Similarly, arrays of vertically oriented Ag2Ga nanoneedles have been formed by dipping silvercoated arrays of pyramidal silicon into melted gallium. Force-displacement measurements of these structures are presented. These nanostructures, especially when compressively or torsionally buckled, have extremely low stiffnesses, motion due to thermal fluctuations that is relatively easily detected, and the ability to move great distances for very small changes in applied force. Nanofibers with bead-on-a-string structure, where the beads are micron diameter and loaded with magnetic iron oxide (maghemite), are shown to be simply viewable under optical microscopes, have micronewton/ m stiffness, and have ultralow torsional stiffnesses enabling the bead to be rotated numerous revolutions without breaking. Combination of these high aspect ratio structures with stretched elastomers offer interesting possibilities for robotic actuation and locomotion. Polydimethylsiloxane loaded with nanomaterials, e.g. nanotubes, graphene or MoS2, can be efficiently heated with directed light. Heating produces considerable force through the thermoelastic effect, and this force can be used for continuous translation or to trigger reversible elastic buckling of the nanostructures. The remote stimulation of motion with light provides a possible mechanism for producing cooperative behavior between swarms of semiautonomous nanorobots.
On the character of nanoscale features in reactor pressure vessel steels under neutron irradiation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wirth, Brian David
Nanostructural features that form in reactor pressure vessel steels under neutron irradiation at around 290°C are responsible for significant hardening and embrittlement. It is well established that the nanostructural features can be separated into well formed precipitates and matrix features comprised of point defect clusters complexed with solutes, which may also include regions of solute enrichment that are not well formed precipitates. However, a more detailed atomicscale understanding of these features is needed to better interpret experimental measurements and provide a physical basis for predictive embrittlement models. The overall objective of this work is to provide atomic-level insight into the character of the nanostructural features and the physical processes involved in their formation. One focus of this work has been on modeling cascade aging; defined as the evolution of self-interstitial and vacancy defects spanning from their spatially correlated birth in displacement cascades over picoseconds to times on the order of >10 5 seconds, when defect populations have built up to steady-state values and no longer have a geometric correlation. During cascade aging, the self-interstitial and vacancy fluxes are responsible for radiation enhanced diffusion, resulting in wellformed precipitates, and are a direct source of matrix defect features. Many-bodied molecular-statics energy relaxation methods have been used to investigate the structure and energetics of self-interstitial and vacancy clusters. The characterization reveals that self-interstitial clusters form as highly kinked, prismatic, perfect proto dislocation loops and vacancy clusters form as faceted three-dimensional clusters. Molecular dynamics simulations of self-interstitial cluster migration reveal that they undergo easy one-dimensional glide, probably due to the presence and easy motion of intrinsic kinks. Our study of the structural characteristics and mobility of the self
Versatile Micropatterning of Plasmonic Nanostructures by Visible Light Induced Electroless Silver Plating on Gold Nanoseeds.
Yoshikawa, Hiroyuki; Hironou, Asami; Shen, ZhengJun; Tamiya, Eiichi
A versatile fabrication technique for plasmonic silver (Ag) nanostructures that uses visible light exposure for micropatterning and plasmon resonance tuning is presented. The surface of a glass substrate modified with gold (Au) nanoseeds by a thermal dewetting process was used as a Ag plating platform. When a solution containing silver nitrate and sodium citrate was dropped on the Au nanoseeds under visible light exposure, the plasmon-mediated reduction of Ag ions was induced on the Au nanoseeds to form Ag nanostructures. The plasmon resonance spectra of Ag nanostructures were examined by an absorption spectral measurement and a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation. Some examples of Ag nanostructure patterning were demonstrated by means of light exposure through a photomask, direct writing with a focused laser beam, and the interference between two laser beams. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) of 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) was conducted with fabricated Ag nanostructures.
Effect of laser parameters and assist gas on spectral response of silicon fibrous nanostructure
Mahmood, Abdul Salam; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan; Alubiady, M.; Tan, Bo
This article report, for the first time, the influence of laser parameters on the spectral response of weblike silicon fibrous nanostructures. These nanostructures are formed by femtosecond laser irradiation at megahertz pulse frequency under atmosphere and nitrogen ambient. The observed decreasing in reflectance is correlated with the density of fibrous nanostructures and the size of the agglomerated nanoparticles. Compared to bulk silicon, Raman spectra of fibrous nanostructures shows a downward shift and asymmetric broadening at the first order phonon peak. The shift and broadening are attributed to phonon confinement of fibrous nanostructure. Polarization and nitrogen gas modify the morphology of generated nanomaterials but does not have effect on light absorptance. Pulsewidth and pulse frequency do not have significant effect on light absorptance.
Use of facile mechanochemical method to functionalize carbon nanofibers with nanostructured polyaniline and their electrochemical capacitance
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Du, Xusheng; Liu, Hong-Yuan; Cai, Guipeng; Mai, Yiu-Wing; Baji, Avinash
A facile approach to functionalize carbon nanofibers [CNFs] with nanostructured polyaniline was developed via in situ mechanochemical polymerization of polyaniline in the presence of chemically treated CNFs. The nanostructured polyaniline grafting on the CNF was mainly in a form of branched nanofibers as well as rough nanolayers. The good dispersibility and processability of the hybrid nanocomposite could be attributed to its overall nanostructure which enhanced its accessibility to the electrolyte. The mechanochemical oxidation polymerization was believed to be related to the strong Lewis acid characteristic of FeCl3 and the Lewis base characteristic of aniline. The growth mechanism of the hierarchical structured nanofibers was also discussed. After functionalization with the nanostructured polyaniline, the hybrid polyaniline/CNF composite showed an enhanced specific capacitance, which might be related to its hierarchical nanostructure and the interaction between the aromatic polyaniline molecules and the CNFs.
Organic phase synthesis of noble metal-zinc chalcogenide core-shell nanostructures.
Kumar, Prashant; Diab, Mahmud; Flomin, Kobi; Rukenstein, Pazit; Mokari, Taleb
Multi-component nanostructures have been attracting tremendous attention due to their ability to form novel materials with unique chemical, optical and physical properties. Development of hybrid nanostructures that are composed of metal-semiconductor components using a simple approach is of interest. Herein, we report a robust and general organic phase synthesis of metal (Au or Ag)-Zinc chalcogenide (ZnS or ZnSe) core-shell nanostructures. This synthetic protocol also enabled the growth of more compositionally complex nanostructures of Au-ZnSxSe1-x alloys and Au-ZnS-ZnSe core-shell-shell. The optical and structural properties of these hybrid nanostructures are also presented.
Use of facile mechanochemical method to functionalize carbon nanofibers with nanostructured polyaniline and their electrochemical capacitance
A facile approach to functionalize carbon nanofibers [CNFs] with nanostructured polyaniline was developed via in situ mechanochemical polymerization of polyaniline in the presence of chemically treated CNFs. The nanostructured polyaniline grafting on the CNF was mainly in a form of branched nanofibers as well as rough nanolayers. The good dispersibility and processability of the hybrid nanocomposite could be attributed to its overall nanostructure which enhanced its accessibility to the electrolyte. The mechanochemical oxidation polymerization was believed to be related to the strong Lewis acid characteristic of FeCl3 and the Lewis base characteristic of aniline. The growth mechanism of the hierarchical structured nanofibers was also discussed. After functionalization with the nanostructured polyaniline, the hybrid polyaniline/CNF composite showed an enhanced specific capacitance, which might be related to its hierarchical nanostructure and the interaction between the aromatic polyaniline molecules and the CNFs. PMID:22315992
Electrochemical Synthesis of Nanostructured Noble Metal Films for Biosensing
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bhattarai, Jay K.
Nanostructures of noble metals (gold and silver) are of interest because of their important intrinsic properties. Noble metals by themselves are physically robust, chemically inert, highly conductive, and possess the capability to form strong bonds with thiols or dithiol molecules present in organic compounds, creating self-assembled monolayers with tunable functional groups at exposed interfaces. However, when the nanostructures are formed, they in addition possess high surface area and unique optical properties which can be tuned by adjusting the shape and the size of the nanostructures. All of these properties make nanostructures of noble metals suitable candidates to be used as a transducer for optical and electrochemical biosensing. Individual nanostructures might be easier to prepare but difficult to handle to use as a transducer. Therefore, we prepared and analyzed nanostructured films/coating of noble metals and used them as a transducer for optical and electrochemical biosensing. We have electrochemically prepared nanoporous gold (NPG) on gold wire varying different dependable parameters (deposition potential, time, and compositional ratio) to obtain an optimal structure in term of stability, morphology, and better surface area. NPG prepared using a deposition potential of --1.0 V for 10 min from 30:70% 50 mM potassium dicyanoaurate(I) and 50 mM potassium dicyanoargentate(I) was used as an optimal surface for protein immobilization, and to perform square wave voltammetry (SWV) based enzyme-linked lectinsorbent assays. On flat gold surfaces, adjacent protein molecules sterically block their active sites due to high-density packing, which can be minimized using NPG as a substrate. NPG can also show significant peak current in SWV experiments, a sensitive electrochemical technique that minimizes non-Faradaic current, which is difficult to obtain using a flat gold surface. These all make NPG a suitable substrate, electrode, and transducer to be used in
The influence of aminophylline on the nanostructure and nanomechanics of T lymphocytes: an AFM study
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Huang, Xun; He, Jiexiang; Liu, Mingxian; Zhou, Changren
Although much progress has been made in the illustration of the mechanism of aminophylline (AM) treating asthma, there is no data about its effect on the nanostructure and nanomechanics of T lymphocytes. Here, we presented atomic force spectroscopy (AFM)-based investigations at the nanoscale level to address the above fundamental biophysical questions. As increasing AM treatment time, T lymphocytes' volume nearly double increased and then decreased. The changes of nanostructural features of the cell membrane, i.e., mean height of particles, root-mean-square roughness (Rq), crack and fragment appearance, increased with AM treatment time. T lymphocytes were completely destroyed with 96-h treatment, and they existed in the form of small fragments. Analysis of force-distance curves showed that the adhesion force of cell surface decreased significantly with the increase of AM treatment time, while the cell stiffness increased firstly and then decreased. These changes were closely correlated to the characteristics and process of cell oncosis. In total, these quantitative and qualitative changes of T lymphocytes' structure and nanomechanical properties suggested that AM could induce T lymphocyte oncosis to exert anti-inflammatory effects for treating asthma. These findings provide new insights into the T lymphocyte oncosis and the anti-inflammatory mechanism and immune regulation actions of AM.
Application of aqueous dispersions of silver nanostructures for treatment of pyoinflammatory diseases with a chronic component
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rutberg, Ph; Kolikov, V.; Snetov, V.; Stogov, A.; Moshkin, A.; Khalilov, M.
Bactericidal properties of aqueous dispersions of oxide silver nanostructures (ADSN) produced by means of pulsed electric discharges (PED) in water can use in surgery for treatment of upper purulent wounds with a chronic component. The patients with such wounds are of large number and differ on etiology of diseases but their mutual feature is long treatment without marked positive changes. Thus long application of antibiotics leads to abnormality of immune processes and antibacterial resistance of microbial flora. Moreover, local antiseptics are frequently toxic and one can oppress processes of reparation in a wound. The investigation is addressed to finding out the opportunity of usage of an ADSN for treatment of purulent wounds with a chronic component and comparison of its efficiency with the sodium hypochlorite. At investigation, the ADSN formed at PED of 5 - 10 μs duration, with highest share of "small" (hydrodynamic diameter <= 100 nm) nanostructures and greatest surface electric charge we used. It was found that the usage of ADSN during the first 5 days characterized by high active reparative processes with their maximum at 3rd - 4th days and subsequent moderate further healing. At local use of ADSN, there were no cellular atypia and preternatural representations about inflammatory reactions. It is possible to assume that usage of ADSN will allow in prospect to correct the practice of out-patient therapy of chronic and slow pyoinflammatory diseases.
Toward Nanostructured Thermoelectrics. Synthesis and Characterization of Lead Telluride Gels and Aerogels
Ganguly, Shreyashi; Brock, Stephanie L.
The synthesis and characterization of lead telluride (PbTe) gels and aerogels with nanostructured features of potential benefit for enhanced thermoelectrics is reported. In this approach, discrete thiolate-capped PbTe nanoparticles were synthesized by a solution-based approach followed by oxidation-induced nanoparticle assembly with tetranitromethane or hydrogen peroxide to form wet gels. Drying of the wet gels by supercritical CO₂ extraction yielded aerogels, whereas xerogels were produced by ambient pressure bench top drying. The gels consist of an interconnected network of colloidal nanoparticles and pores with surface areas up to 74 m² g-1. The thermal stability of the nanostructures relative to nanoparticles was probed with the help of in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The aerogels were observed to sublime at a higher temperature and over a larger range (425–500 °C) relative to the precursor nanoparticles. TGA-DSC suggests that organic capping groups can be removed in the region 250–450 °C, and melting of PbTe nanoparticles occurs near the temperature for bulk materials (ca. 920 °C). The good thermal stability combined with the presence of nanoscale interfaces suggests PbTe gels may show promise in thermoelectric devices.
(Plasmonic Metal Core)/(Semiconductor Shell) Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fang, Caihong
shape is maintained throughout the sulfidation process, with the edge length being increased gradually. TiO2 is one of the most important semiconductors that are employed in light-harvesting applications. It has been extensively studied for a variety of applications by virtue of its low toxicity, biological compatibility, chemical and thermal stability, resistance to photocorrosion, and relative abundance. However, the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 is limited to the UV region because of its wide band gap, which limits its applications in light harvesting. Although (Au core)/(TiO2 shell) nanostructures can improve the photocatalytic activities of TiO2 in visible light, it has only been demonstrated in a few experiments and has been limited with Au nanospheres. Compared with Au nanospheres, Au nanorods offer more attractive plasmonic features, including stronger electric field enhancements and synthetically tunable longitudinal plasmon wavelengths over the visible to near-infrared region. The coating of Au nanorod therefore can largely improve light harvesting capability of TiO2. In this thesis, I developed a facile and versatile method for the preparation of (Au nanocrystal core)/(TiO2 shell) nanostructures by using a Ti(III) compound as the titania precursor. By employing Au nanorods with different sizes and varying the shell thickness, the plasmonic bands of the core/shell nanostructures can be tailored. TiO2 can also be grown on other monometallic and bimetallic Pd, Pt, Au nanocrystals. As a proof-of-concept application, (Au nanorod core)/(TiO2 shell) nanostructures were utilized in dye-sensitized solar cells to function as a scattering layer. The resultant solar cells exhibited higher power conversion efficiencies with a thinner thickness compared to the traditional TiO 2 solar cells. In addition, I also examined the property of plasmon-enhanced reactive oxygen species generation. Moreover, the TiO2 shell with a high refractive index can efficiently couple with the
The formation of a multipeak relief on the surface on nanostructured nickel and field electron emission from it
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nazarov, K. S.; Khisamov, R. Kh.; Yumaguzin, Yu. M.; Mulyukov, R. R.
Studies of the relief formed on the surface of nanostructured nickel with nonequilibrium grain boundaries formed upon ion-beam sputtering are presented. It has been shown that the relief on the nano-structured nickel surface differs substantially from the relief formed on the surface of the coarse-grained nickel with equilibrium grain boundaries. In particular, a multipeak relief with submicron dimensionality of the peaks forms on the surface of nanostructured nickel under certain conditions. This relief is advantageous for the field electron emission. For the sample with multipeak relief, a CVC of field electron emission is measured.
Femtosecond laser induced periodic nanostructures on titanium dioxide film for improving biocompatibility
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Shinonaga, T.; Horiguchi, N.; Tsukamoto, M.; Nagai, A.; Yamashita, K.; Hanawa, T.; Matsushita, N.; Guoqiang, X.; Abe, N.
Periodic nanostructures formation on Titanium dioxide (TiO2) film by scanning of femtosecond laser beam spot at fundamental and second harmonic wave is reported. Titanium (Ti) is one of the most widely used for biomaterials, because of its excellent anti-corrosion and high mechanical properties. However, Ti implant is typically artificial materials and has no biofunction. Hence, it is necessary for improving the bioactivity of Ti. Recently, coating of TiO2 film on Ti plate surface is useful methods to improve biocompatibility of Ti plate. Then, if periodic nanostructures were formed on the film surface, cell spreading might be controlled at one direction. We propose periodic nanostructures formation on TiO2 film by femtosecond laser irradiation. Cell spread could be controlled along the grooves of periodic nanostructures. In the experiments, the film was formed on Ti plate with an aerosol beam. A commercial femtosecond Ti : sapphire laser system was employed in our experiments. Periodic nanostructures, lying perpendicular to the laser electric field polarization vector, were formed on the film at fundamental and second harmonic wave. Periodic nanostructures were also produced on Ti plate with femtosecond laser. The period of periodic nanostructures on the film was much shorter than that on Ti plate. By cell test, there was a region of cell spreading along the grooves of periodic nanostructures on the film formed with femtosecond laser at fundamental wave. On bare film surface, cell spreading was observed at all direction. These results suggest that direction of cell spread could be controlled by periodic nanostructures formation on the film.
Supercritical carbon dioxide approach to nanostructured materials
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ye, Xiang-Rong
Supercritical fluid technology is a novel and emerging strategy to generate nanomaterials in small areas, within high-aspect-ratio structures, on complicated surfaces and poor wettable substrates with high uniformity, high homogeneity and minimum environmental problems. In this dissertation, several strategies were developed for thin film deposition and nanocomposite fabrication. In developing supercritical fluid immersion deposition (SFID), supercritical or near supercritical CO2 was used as a new solvent for immersion deposition, a galvanic displacement process traditionally carried out in aqueous HF solutions containing metal ions, to selectively develop Pd, Cu, Ag and other metal films on featured and non-featured Si substrates. Annealing of thin palladium films deposited by SFID can lead to the formation of palladium silicide in small features on Si substrates. Deposition of metal films on germanium substrates was also achieved through SFID. Through hydrogen reduction of metal-beta-diketone complexes in supercritical CO2, a rapid, convenient and environmentally benign approach has been developed to synthesize a variety of nanostructured materials: (1) Metal (Pd, Ni and Cu) nanowires and nanorods sheathed within multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) templates; (2) nanoparticles of palladium, rhodium and ruthenium decorated onto functionalized MWCNTs. These highly dispersed nanoparticles are expected to exhibit promising catalytic properties for a variety of chemical or electrochemical reactions; (3) Cu, Pd or Cu-Pd alloy nanocrystals deposited onto SiO2 nanowires (NWs), SiO2 microfibers, or SiC NWs. Different types of nanostructures were achieved, including nanocrystal-NW, spherical aggregation-NW, shell-NW composites and "mesoporous" metals supported by the framework of NWs.
LDRD final report on adaptive-responsive nanostructures for sensing applications.
Shelnutt, John Allen; van Swol, Frank B.; Wang, Zhongchun; Medforth, Craig J.
Functional organic nanostructures such as well-formed tubes or fibers that can easily be fabricated into electronic and photonic devices are needed in many applications. Especially desirable from a national security standpoint are nanostructures that have enhanced sensitivity for the detection of chemicals and biological (CB) agents and other environmental stimuli. We recently discovered the first class of highly responsive and adaptive porphyrin-based nanostructures that may satisfy these requirements. These novel porphyrin nanostructures, which are formed by ionic self-assembly of two oppositely charged porphyrins, may function as conductors, semiconductors, or photoconductors, and they have additional properties that make them suitable for device fabrication (e.g., as ultrasensitive colorimetric CB microsensors). Preliminary studies with porphyrin nanotubes have shown that these nanostructures have novel optical and electronic properties, including strong resonant light scattering, quenched fluorescence, and electrical conductivity. In addition, they are photochemically active and capable of light-harvesting and photosynthesis; they may also have nonlinear optical properties. Remarkably, the nanotubes and potentially other porphyrin nanostructure are mechanically responsive and adaptive (e.g., the rigidity of the micrometers-long nanotubes is altered by light, ultrasound, or chemicals) and they self-heal upon removal the environmental stimulus. Given the tremendous degree of structural variation possible in the porphyrin subunits, additional types of nanostructures and greater control over their morphology can be anticipated. Molecular modification also provides a means of controlling their electronic, photonic, and other functional properties. In this work, we have greatly broadened the range of ionic porphyrin nanostructures that can be made, and determined the optical and responsivity properties of the nanotubes and other porphyrin nanostructures. We have
Engineering DNA self-assemblies as templates for functional nanostructures.
Wang, Zhen-Gang; Ding, Baoquan
CONSPECTUS: DNA is a well-known natural molecule that carries genetic information. In recent decades, DNA has been used beyond its genetic role as a building block for the construction of engineering materials. Many strategies, such as tile assembly, scaffolded origami and DNA bricks, have been developed to design and produce 1D, 2D, and 3D architectures with sophisticated morphologies. Moreover, the spatial addressability of DNA nanostructures and sequence-dependent recognition enable functional elements to be precisely positioned and allow for the control of chemical and biochemical processes. The spatial arrangement of heterogeneous components using DNA nanostructures as the templates will aid in the fabrication of functional materials that are difficult to produce using other methods and can address scientific and technical challenges in interdisciplinary research. For example, plasmonic nanoparticles can be assembled into well-defined configurations with high resolution limit while exhibiting desirable collective behaviors, such as near-field enhancement. Conducting metallic or polymer patterns can be synthesized site-specifically on DNA nanostructures to form various controllable geometries, which could be used for electronic nanodevices. Biomolecules can be arranged into organized networks to perform programmable biological functionalities, such as distance-dependent enzyme-cascade activities. DNA nanostructures can carry multiple cytoactive molecules and cell-targeting groups simultaneously to address medical issues such as targeted therapy and combined administration. In this Account, we describe recent advances in the functionalization of DNA nanostructures in different fashions based on our research efforts in nanophotonics, nanoelectronics, and nanomedicine. We show that DNA origami nanostructures can guide the assembly of achiral, spherical, metallic nanoparticles into nature-mimicking chiral geometries through hybridization between complementary DNA
Plasmonic hybrid nanostructure with controlled interaction strength
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Grzelak, Justyna K.; Krajnik, Bartosz; Thoreson, Mark D.; Nyga, Piotr; Shalaev, Vladimir M.; Mackowski, Sebastian
In this report we discuss the influence of plasmon excitations in a silver island film on the fluorescence of photosynthetic complex, peridinin-chlorophyll-protein (PCP). Control of the separation between these two components is obtained by fabricating a wedge layer of silica across the substrate, with a thickness from 0 to 46 nm. Continuous variation of the silica thickness allows for gradual change of interaction strength between plasmon excitations in the metallic film and the excited states of pigments comprising photosynthetic complexes. While the largest separation between the silver film and photosynthetic complexes results in fluorescence featuring a mono-exponential decay and relatively narrow distribution of intensities, the PCP complexes placed on thinner silica spacers show biexponential fluorescence decay and significantly broader distribution of total fluorescence intensities. This broad distribution is a signature of stronger sensitivity of fluorescence enhancement upon actual parameters of a hybrid nanostructure. By gradual change of the silica spacer thickness we are able to reproduce classical distance dependence of fluorescence intensity in plasmonic hybrid nanostructures on ensemble level. Experiments carried out for different excitation wavelengths indicate that the interaction is stronger for excitations resonant with plasmon absorption in the metallic layer.
Clay nanotube composites for antibacterial nanostructured coatings
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Boyer, Christen J.
A surging demand for the development of new antimicrobial nanomaterials exists due to the frequency of medical device-associated infections and the transfer of pathogens from highly touched objects. Naturally occurring halloysite clay nanotubes (HNTs) have shown to be ideal particles for polymer reinforcement, time-release drug delivery, nano-reactor synthesis, and as substrate material for nanostructured coatings. This research demonstrates the feasibility of a novel method for coating HNTs with metals for antibacterial applications. The first ever ability to coat HNTs through electrolysis was developed for customizable and multi-functional antibacterial nanoparticle platforms. HNTs were investigated as substrate for the deposition of copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) metal nanoparticles through electrochemical syntheses, and as a platform for nano-structured antibacterial polymer composites. Characterization of interfacial and material properties demonstrated the feasibility of electrolysis as a new efficient and replicable nano-scale surface modification route. Methods of encapsulating HNTs in nanofibers, three-dimensional printer filaments, and multifunctional polymer rubbers were also realized. The nanofabrication methods, nanoparticles, and polymer composites created in this work were novel, scalable, easy-to-replicate, and displayed antibacterial features with tunable properties.
Boron Nitride Nanostructures: Fabrication, Functionalization and Applications.
Yin, Jun; Li, Jidong; Hang, Yang; Yu, Jin; Tai, Guoan; Li, Xuemei; Zhang, Zhuhua; Guo, Wanlin
Boron nitride (BN) structures are featured by their excellent thermal and chemical stability and unique electronic and optical properties. However, the lack of controlled synthesis of quality samples and the electrically insulating property largely prevent realizing the full potential of BN nanostructures. A comprehensive overview of the current status of the synthesis of two-dimensional hexagonal BN sheets, three dimensional porous hexagonal BN materials and BN-involved heterostructures is provided, highlighting the advantages of different synthetic methods. In addition, structural characterization, functionalizations and prospective applications of hexagonal BN sheets are intensively discussed. One-dimensional BN nanoribbons and nanotubes are then discussed in terms of structure, fabrication and functionality. In particular, the existing routes in pursuit of tunable electronic and magnetic properties in various BN structures are surveyed, calling upon synergetic experimental and theoretical efforts to address the challenges for pioneering the applications of BN into functional devices. Finally, the progress in BN superstructures and novel B/N nanostructures is also briefly introduced.
Phonon engineering for nanostructures.
Aubry, Sylvie; Friedmann, Thomas Aquinas; Sullivan, John Patrick; Peebles, Diane Elaine; Hurley, David H.; Shinde, Subhash L.; Piekos, Edward Stanley; Emerson, John Allen
Understanding the physics of phonon transport at small length scales is increasingly important for basic research in nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, nanomechanics, and thermoelectrics. We conducted several studies to develop an understanding of phonon behavior in very small structures. This report describes the modeling, experimental, and fabrication activities used to explore phonon transport across and along material interfaces and through nanopatterned structures. Toward the understanding of phonon transport across interfaces, we computed the Kapitza conductance for {Sigma}29(001) and {Sigma}3(111) interfaces in silicon, fabricated the interfaces in single-crystal silicon substrates, and used picosecond laser pulses to image the thermal waves crossing the interfaces. Toward the understanding of phonon transport along interfaces, we designed and fabricated a unique differential test structure that can measure the proportion of specular to diffuse thermal phonon scattering from silicon surfaces. Phonon-scale simulation of the test ligaments, as well as continuum scale modeling of the complete experiment, confirmed its sensitivity to surface scattering. To further our understanding of phonon transport through nanostructures, we fabricated microscale-patterned structures in diamond thin films.
Nanostructures in photovoltaics.
Catchpole, Kylie R
The world has recently been waking up to the urgent need to move away from fossil fuels and towards a low-carbon economy. To achieve this, we need a way of producing electricity that is efficient, widely applicable and cheap. At the same time, there has recently been an appreciation of the tremendous scope for making entirely new types of devices, and even seeing new physics, by structuring matter at the nanoscale. Furthermore, the occurrence of self-assembly in nature suggests that a range of types of nanoscale structures could be made simply and cheaply. The application of nanostructures to photovoltaics combines a field of almost limitless possibilities with a problem of vital urgency. In this paper, some of the newer ideas emerging from this trend are described, along with how they challenge our ideas on what a solar cell looks like. We are at the beginning of a time of radically rethinking the design of the solar cell, which may lead to the exploitation of completely new physical ideas in achieving a sustainable energy future.
Spatially-interactive biomolecular networks organized by nucleic acid nanostructures.
Fu, Jinglin; Liu, Minghui; Liu, Yan; Yan, Hao
Living systems have evolved a variety of nanostructures to control the molecular interactions that mediate many functions including the recognition of targets by receptors, the binding of enzymes to substrates, and the regulation of enzymatic activity. Mimicking these structures outside of the cell requires methods that offer nanoscale control over the organization of individual network components. Advances in DNA nanotechnology have enabled the design and fabrication of sophisticated one-, two- and three-dimensional (1D, 2D, and 3D) nanostructures that utilize spontaneous and sequence-specific DNA hybridization. Compared with other self-assembling biopolymers, DNA nanostructures offer predictable and programmable interactions and surface features to which other nanoparticles and biomolecules can be precisely positioned. The ability to control the spatial arrangement of the components while constructing highly organized networks will lead to various applications of these systems. For example, DNA nanoarrays with surface displays of molecular probes can sense noncovalent hybridization interactions with DNA, RNA, and proteins and covalent chemical reactions. DNA nanostructures can also align external molecules into well-defined arrays, which may improve the resolution of many structural determination methods, such as X-ray diffraction, cryo-EM, NMR, and super-resolution fluorescence. Moreover, by constraint of target entities to specific conformations, self-assembled DNA nanostructures can serve as molecular rulers to evaluate conformation-dependent activities. This Account describes the most recent advances in the DNA nanostructure directed assembly of biomolecular networks and explores the possibility of applying this technology to other fields of study. Recently, several reports have demonstrated the DNA nanostructure directed assembly of spatially interactive biomolecular networks. For example, researchers have constructed synthetic multienzyme cascades by
Comparison of the structural and chemical composition of two unique micro/nanostructures produced by femtosecond laser interactions on nickel
Zuhlke, Craig A.; Anderson, Troy P.; Alexander, Dennis R.
The structural and chemical composition of two unique microstructures formed on nickel, with nanoscale features, produced using femtosecond laser surface processing (FLSP) techniques is reported in this paper. These two surface morphologies, termed mounds and nanoparticle-covered pyramids, are part of a larger class of self-organized micro/nanostructured surfaces formed using FLSP. Cross-sections of the structures produced using focused ion beam milling techniques were analyzed with a transmission electron microscope. Both morphologies have a solid core with a layer of nanoparticles on the surface. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy by scanning transmission electron microscopy studies reveal that the nanoparticles are a nickel oxide, while the core material is pure nickel.
Nanostructured Diclofenac Sodium Releasing Material
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nikkola, L.; Vapalahti, K.; Harlin, A.; Seppälä, J.; Ashammakhi, N.
Various techniques have been developed to produce second generation biomaterials for tissue repair. These include extrusion, molding, salt leaching, spinning etc, but success in regenerating tissues has been limited. It is important to develop porous material, yet with a fibrous structure for it to be biomimetic. To mimic biological tissues, the extra-cellular matrix usually contains fibers in nano scale. To produce nanostructures, self-assembly or electrospinning can be used. Adding a drug release function to such a material may advance applications further for use in controlled tissue repair. This turns the resulting device into a multifunctional porous, fibrous structure to support cells and drug releasing properties in order to control tissue reactions. A bioabsorbable poly(ɛ-caprolactone-co-D,L lactide) 95/5 (PCL) was made into diluted solution using a solvent, to which was added 2w-% of diclofenac sodium (DS). Nano-fibers were made by electrospinning onto substrate. Microstructure of the resulting nanomat was studied using SEM and drug release profiles with UV/VIS spectroscopy. Thickness of the electrospun nanomat was about 2 mm. SEM analysis showed that polymeric nano-fibers containing drug particles form a highly interconnected porous nano structure. Average diameter of the nano-fibers was 130 nm. There was a high burst peak in drug release, which decreased to low levels after one day. The used polymer has slow a degradation rate and though the nanomat was highly porous with a large surface area, drug release rate is slow. It is feasible to develop a nano-fibrous porous structure of bioabsorbable polymer, which is loaded with test drug. Drug release is targeted at improving the properties of biomaterial for use in controlled tissue repair and regeneration.
Nanostructured catalysts for organic transformations.
Chng, Leng Leng; Erathodiyil, Nandanan; Ying, Jackie Y
The development of green, sustainable and economical chemical processes is one of the major challenges in chemistry. Besides the traditional need for efficient and selective catalytic reactions that will transform raw materials into valuable chemicals, pharmaceuticals and fuels, green chemistry also strives for waste reduction, atomic efficiency and high rates of catalyst recovery. Nanostructured materials are attractive candidates as heterogeneous catalysts for various organic transformations, especially because they meet the goals of green chemistry. Researchers have made significant advances in the synthesis of well-defined nanostructured materials in recent years. Among these are novel approaches that have permitted the rational design and synthesis of highly active and selective nanostructured catalysts by controlling the structure and composition of the active nanoparticles (NPs) and by manipulating the interaction between the catalytically active NP species and their support. The ease of isolation and separation of the heterogeneous catalysts from the desired organic product and the recovery and reuse of these NPs further enhance their attractiveness as green and sustainable catalysts. This Account reviews recent advances in the use of nanostructured materials for catalytic organic transformations. We present a broad overview of nanostructured catalysts used in different types of organic transformations including chemoselective oxidations and reductions, asymmetric hydrogenations, coupling reactions, C-H activations, oxidative aminations, domino and tandem reactions, and more. We focus on recent research efforts towards the development of the following nanostructured materials: (i) nanostructured catalysts with controlled morphologies, (ii) magnetic nanocomposites, (iii) semiconductor-metal nanocomposites, and (iv) hybrid nanostructured catalysts. Selected examples showcase principles of nanoparticle design such as the enhancement of reactivity, selectivity
Carbon nanostructures for orthopedic medical applications.
Yang, Lei; Zhang, Lijuan; Webster, Thomas J
Carbon nanostructures (including carbon nanofibers, nanostructured diamond, fullerene materials and so forth) possess extraordinary physiochemical, mechanical and electrical properties attractive to bioengineers and medical researchers. In the past decade, numerous developments towards the fabrication and biological studies of carbon nanostructures have provided opportunities to improve orthopedic applications. Therefore, the aim of this article is to provide an up-to-date review on carbon nanostructure advances in orthopedic research. Orthopedic medical device applications of carbon nanotubes/carbon nanofibers and nanostructured diamond (including particulate nanodiamond and nanocrystalline diamond coatings) are emphasized here along with other carbon nanostructures that have promising potential. In addition, widely used fabrication techniques for producing carbon nanostructures in both the laboratory and in industry are briefly introduced. In conclusion, carbon nanostructures have demonstrated tremendous promise for orthopedic medical device applications to date, and although some safety, reliability and durability issues related to the manufacturing and implantation of carbon nanomaterials remain, their future is bright.
Design, assembly, and evaluation of RNA-protein nanostructures.
Ohno, Hirohisa; Osada, Eriko; Saito, Hirohide
The use of RNA-protein interaction motifs (RNP motifs) to design and build nanoscale objects has the potential to expand the field of RNA nanotechnology. In principle, RNP motifs can be integrated easily into RNA nano objects, providing an alternative technique to increase the functional and structural complexities of the RNA. Investigating the design principles of RNP nanostructures will enable the construction of highly sophisticated biomacromolecular complexes such as ribosomes from scratch. As an initial step towards this goal, we designed and constructed triangular-like nanostructures by employing box C/D kink-turn (K-turn)-L7Ae RNP motifs. We showed that the K-turn RNA and the ribosomal protein L7Ae could form a nanostructure shaped like an equilateral triangle that consists of the three proteins attached to the tips of the RNA scaffold. The construction of the complex depends on L7Ae binding to the K-turn motifs in the RNA. The RNP motif allows the RNA to bend by approximately 60° at three positions to form a nanoscale triangle. Functional RNP triangles with desired protein modules at the three tips can be constructed in a modular manner. Here, we describe how to design, construct, and evaluate the RNP nanostructures.
Supramolecular materials: Self-organized nanostructures
Stupp, S.I.; LeBonheur, V.; Walker, K.
Miniaturized triblock copolymers have been found to self-assemble into nanostructures that are highly regular in size and shape. Mushroom-shaped supramolecular structures of about 200 kilodaltons form by crystallization of the chemically identical blocks and self-organize into films containing 100 or more layers stacked in a polar arrangement. The polar supramolecular material exhibits spontaneous second-harmonic generation from infrared to green photons and has an adhesive tape-like character with nonadhesive-hydrophobic and hydrophilic-sticky opposite surfaces. The films also have reasonable shear strength and adhere tenaciously to glass surfaces on one side only. The regular and finite size of the supramolecular units is believed to be mediated by repulsive forces among some of the segments in the triblock molecules. A large diversity of multifunctional materials could be formed from regular supramolecular units weighing hundreds of kilodaltons. 21 refs., 10 figs.
Nanostructured core-shell electrode materials for electrochemical capacitors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jiang, Long-bo; Yuan, Xing-zhong; Liang, Jie; Zhang, Jin; Wang, Hou; Zeng, Guang-ming
Core-shell nanostructure represents a unique system for applications in electrochemical energy storage devices. Owing to the unique characteristics featuring high power delivery and long-term cycling stability, electrochemical capacitors (ECs) have emerged as one of the most attractive electrochemical storage systems since they can complement or even replace batteries in the energy storage field, especially when high power delivery or uptake is needed. This review aims to summarize recent progress on core-shell nanostructures for advanced supercapacitor applications in view of their hierarchical architecture which not only create the desired hierarchical porous channels, but also possess higher electrical conductivity and better structural mechanical stability. The core-shell nanostructures include carbon/carbon, carbon/metal oxide, carbon/conducting polymer, metal oxide/metal oxide, metal oxide/conducting polymer, conducting polymer/conducting polymer, and even more complex ternary core-shell nanoparticles. The preparation strategies, electrochemical performances, and structural stabilities of core-shell materials for ECs are summarized. The relationship between core-shell nanostructure and electrochemical performance is discussed in detail. In addition, the challenges and new trends in core-shell nanomaterials development have also been proposed.
Fabrication of a nanostructure thermal property measurement platform.
Harris, C T; Martinez, J A; Shaner, E A; Huang, J Y; Swartzentruber, B S; Sullivan, J P; Chen, G
Measurements of the electrical and thermal transport properties of one-dimensional nanostructures (e.g. nanotubes and nanowires) are typically obtained without detailed knowledge of the specimen's atomic-scale structure or defects. To address this deficiency, we have developed a microfabricated, chip-based characterization platform that enables both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of the atomic structure and defects as well as measurement of the thermal transport properties of individual nanostructures. The platform features a suspended heater line that physically contacts the center of a suspended nanostructure/nanowire that was placed using in situ scanning electron microscope nanomanipulators. Suspension of the nanostructure across a through-hole enables TEM characterization of the atomic and defect structure (dislocations, stacking faults, etc) of the test sample. This paper explains, in detail, the processing steps involved in creating this thermal property measurement platform. As a model study, we report the use of this platform to measure the thermal conductivity and defect structure of a GaN nanowire.
Key Physical Mechanisms in Nanostructured Solar Cells
Dr Stephan Bremner
The objective of the project was to study both theoretically and experimentally the excitation, recombination and transport properties required for nanostructured solar cells to deliver energy conversion efficiencies well in excess of conventional limits. These objectives were met by concentrating on three key areas, namely, investigation of physical mechanisms present in nanostructured solar cells, characterization of loss mechanisms in nanostructured solar cells and determining the properties required of nanostructured solar cells in order to achieve high efficiency and the design implications.
Realistic molecular model of kerogen's nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bousige, Colin; Ghimbeu, Camélia Matei; Vix-Guterl, Cathie; Pomerantz, Andrew E.; Suleimenova, Assiya; Vaughan, Gavin; Garbarino, Gaston; Feygenson, Mikhail; Wildgruber, Christoph; Ulm, Franz-Josef; Pellenq, Roland J.-M.; Coasne, Benoit
Despite kerogen's importance as the organic backbone for hydrocarbon production from source rocks such as gas shale, the interplay between kerogen's chemistry, morphology and mechanics remains unexplored. As the environmental impact of shale gas rises, identifying functional relations between its geochemical, transport, elastic and fracture properties from realistic molecular models of kerogens becomes all the more important. Here, by using a hybrid experimental-simulation method, we propose a panel of realistic molecular models of mature and immature kerogens that provide a detailed picture of kerogen's nanostructure without considering the presence of clays and other minerals in shales. We probe the models' strengths and limitations, and show that they predict essential features amenable to experimental validation, including pore distribution, vibrational density of states and stiffness. We also show that kerogen's maturation, which manifests itself as an increase in the sp2/sp3 hybridization ratio, entails a crossover from plastic-to-brittle rupture mechanisms.
Realistic molecular model of kerogen's nanostructure.
Bousige, Colin; Ghimbeu, Camélia Matei; Vix-Guterl, Cathie; Pomerantz, Andrew E; Suleimenova, Assiya; Vaughan, Gavin; Garbarino, Gaston; Feygenson, Mikhail; Wildgruber, Christoph; Ulm, Franz-Josef; Pellenq, Roland J-M; Coasne, Benoit
Despite kerogen's importance as the organic backbone for hydrocarbon production from source rocks such as gas shale, the interplay between kerogen's chemistry, morphology and mechanics remains unexplored. As the environmental impact of shale gas rises, identifying functional relations between its geochemical, transport, elastic and fracture properties from realistic molecular models of kerogens becomes all the more important. Here, by using a hybrid experimental-simulation method, we propose a panel of realistic molecular models of mature and immature kerogens that provide a detailed picture of kerogen's nanostructure without considering the presence of clays and other minerals in shales. We probe the models' strengths and limitations, and show that they predict essential features amenable to experimental validation, including pore distribution, vibrational density of states and stiffness. We also show that kerogen's maturation, which manifests itself as an increase in the sp(2)/sp(3) hybridization ratio, entails a crossover from plastic-to-brittle rupture mechanisms.
MIRW properties of cylindrical holes array nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wen, Chunchao; Fu, Yuegang; Dong, Tingting; Zhou, Jianhong; Guo, Xudong
To improve mediate infrared wavelength (MIRW) light energy transferring efficiency, the optical properties of antireflection micro/nanostructure with cylindrical holes periodic array on incident angle, wavelength, polarized angle and azimuth orientation was researched based on finite time-domain difference (FDTD) method. Results shows that the antireflection characteristics can be promised in wider spectral range and lager incident angles. Reflectivity function also presents different features as polarization and azimuth angles changed. These structure parameters were optimized to be period of 1 µm, duty cycle of 0.85 and erosion height of 0.5 µm. Samples of the structure were fabricated by electron beam exposure and reaction ion etch technology on silicon substrate. Finally, the diverse shape effect of bionic moth-eye was explored to give respective ideal parameters suitable for MIRW.
Self-organised synthesis of Rh nanostructures with tunable chemical reactivity
Nonequilibrium periodic nanostructures such as nanoscale ripples, mounds and rhomboidal pyramids formed on Rh(110) are particularly interesting as candidate model systems with enhanced catalytic reactivity, since they are endowed with steep facets running along nonequilibrium low-symmetry directions, exposing a high density of undercoordinated atoms. In this review we report on the formation of these novel nanostructured surfaces, a kinetic process which can be controlled by changing parameters such as temperature, sputtering ion flux and energy. The role of surface morphology with respect to chemical reactivity is investigated by analysing the carbon monoxide dissociation probability on the different nanostructured surfaces.
High Throughput Synthesis of Multifunctional Oxide Nanostructures within Nanoreactors Defined by Beam Pen Lithography.
Liao, Xing; Huang, Yi-Kai; Mirkin, Chad A; Dravid, Vinayak P
Reliably obtaining nanostructures of complex oxides over large area with nanoscale resolution and well-controlled shape, spacing, and pattern symmetry remains a major challenge. In this article, millions of nanowells have been routinely generated by beam pen lithography. Each attoliter volume nanowell functions as a "nanoreactor", inside which oxide nanostructures are synthesized from their sol-gel precursors. Importantly, these nanometer scale entities are in single crystalline or textured forms and epitaxial to the underlying substrates, which promises functionalities including ferroelectricity, ferromagnetism, and multiferroicity. This method provides a general solution which allows one to rapidly screen structural parameters of oxide nanostructures comprising of three or more elements for prominent properties.
Magnetic layering transitions in a polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer nano-structure: Monte Carlo study
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ziti, S.; Aouini, S.; Labrim, H.; Bahmad, L.
We study the magnetic layering transitions in a polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer nano-structure, under the effect of an external magnetic field. We examine the magnetic properties, of this model of the spin S=1 Ising ferromagnetic in real nanostructure used in several scientific domains. For T=0, we give and discuss the ground state phase diagrams. At non null temperatures, we applied the Monte Carlo simulations giving important results summarized in the form of the phase diagrams. We also analyzed the effect of varying the external magnetic field, and found the layering transitions in the polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer nano-structure.
Developing high-sensitivity ethanol liquid sensors based on ZnO/porous Si nanostructure surfaces using an electrochemical impedance technique
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Husairi, Mohd; Rouhi, Jalal; Alvin, Kevin; Atikah, Zainurul; Rusop, Muhammad; Abdullah, Saifollah
ZnO nanostructures were synthesized on porous Si (PSi) substrates using the thermal catalytic-free immersion method. Crack-like ZnO nanostructures were formed on the bare, sponge-like PSi structures. An approach to fabricate chemical sensors based on the ZnO/PSi nanostructure arrays that uses an electrochemical impedance technique is reported. Sensor performance was evaluated for ethanol solutions by the morphology and defect structures of the ZnO nanostructure layer. Results indicate that the ZnO/PSi nanostructure chemical sensor exhibits rapid and high response to ethanol compared with a PSi nanostructure sensor because of its small particle size and an oxide layer acting as a capacitive layer on the PSi nanostructure surface.
One-Dimensional Perovskite Manganite Oxide Nanostructures: Recent Developments in Synthesis, Characterization, Transport Properties, and Applications.
Li, Lei; Liang, Lizhi; Wu, Heng; Zhu, Xinhua
One-dimensional nanostructures, including nanowires, nanorods, nanotubes, nanofibers, and nanobelts, have promising applications in mesoscopic physics and nanoscale devices. In contrast to other nanostructures, one-dimensional nanostructures can provide unique advantages in investigating the size and dimensionality dependence of the materials' physical properties, such as electrical, thermal, and mechanical performances, and in constructing nanoscale electronic and optoelectronic devices. Among the one-dimensional nanostructures, one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures have been received much attention due to their unusual electron transport and magnetic properties, which are indispensable for the applications in microelectronic, magnetic, and spintronic devices. In the past two decades, much effort has been made to synthesize and characterize one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures in the forms of nanorods, nanowires, nanotubes, and nanobelts. Various physical and chemical deposition techniques and growth mechanisms are explored and developed to control the morphology, identical shape, uniform size, crystalline structure, defects, and homogenous stoichiometry of the one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures. This article provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art research activities that focus on the rational synthesis, structural characterization, fundamental properties, and unique applications of one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures in nanotechnology. It begins with the rational synthesis of one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures and then summarizes their structural characterizations. Fundamental physical properties of one-dimensional perovskite manganite nanostructures are also highlighted, and a range of unique applications in information storages, field-effect transistors, and spintronic devices are discussed. Finally, we conclude this review with some perspectives/outlook and future
Development of colour-producing β-keratin nanostructures in avian feather barbs
Prum, Richard O.; Dufresne, Eric R.; Quinn, Tim; Waters, Karla
The non-iridescent structural colours of avian feather barbs are produced by coherent light scattering from amorphous (i.e. quasi-ordered) nanostructures of β-keratin and air in the medullary cells of feather barb rami. Known barb nanostructures belong to two distinct morphological classes. 'Channel' nanostructures consist of β-keratin bars and air channels of elongate, tortuous and twisting forms. 'Spherical' nanostructures consist of highly spherical air cavities that are surrounded by thin β-keratin bars and sometimes interconnected by tiny passages. Using transmission electron microscopy, we observe that the colour-producing channel-type nanostructures of medullary β-keratin in feathers of the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna, Psittacidae) develop by intracellular self-assembly; the process proceeds in the absence of any biological prepattern created by the cell membrane, endoplasmic reticulum or cellular intermediate filaments. We examine the hypothesis that the shape and size of these self-assembled, intracellular nanostructures are determined by phase separation of β-keratin protein from the cytoplasm of the cell. The shapes of a broad sample of colour-producing channel-type nanostructures from nine avian species are very similar to those self-assembled during the phase separation of an unstable mixture, a process called spinodal decomposition (SD). In contrast, the shapes of a sample of spherical-type nanostructures from feather barbs of six species show a poor match to SD. However, spherical nanostructures show a strong morphological similarity to morphologies produced by phase separation of a metastable mixture, called nucleation and growth. We propose that colour-producing, intracellular, spongy medullary β-keratin nanostructures develop their characteristic sizes and shapes by phase separation during protein polymerization. We discuss the possible role of capillary flow through drying of medullary cells in the development of the hollow
Semiconductor nanostructure-based photovoltaic solar cells.
Zhang, Genqiang; Finefrock, Scott; Liang, Daxin; Yadav, Gautam G; Yang, Haoran; Fang, Haiyu; Wu, Yue
Substantial efforts have been devoted to design, synthesize, and integrate various semiconductor nanostructures for photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. In this article, we will review the recent progress in this exciting area and cover the material chemistry and physics related to all-inorganic nanostructure solar cells, hybrid inorganic nanostructure-conductive polymer composite solar cells, and dye-sensitized solar cells.
Semiconductor nanostructure-based photovoltaic solar cells
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Genqiang; Finefrock, Scott; Liang, Daxin; Yadav, Gautam G.; Yang, Haoran; Fang, Haiyu; Wu, Yue
Substantial efforts have been devoted to design, synthesize, and integrate various semiconductor nanostructures for photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. In this article, we will review the recent progress in this exciting area and cover the material chemistry and physics related to all-inorganic nanostructure solar cells, hybrid inorganic nanostructure-conductive polymer composite solar cells, and dye-sensitized solar cells.
Strength, Deformation and Fracture in Metallic Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gu, Xun Wendy
An understanding of the mechanics of nanoscale metals and semiconductors is necessary for the safe and prolonged operation of nanostructured devices from transistors to nanowire- based solar cells to miniaturized electrodes. This is a fascinating but challenging pursuit because mechanical properties that are size-invariant in conventional materials, such as strength, ductility and fracture behavior, can depend critically on sample size when materials are reduced to sub-micron dimensions. In this thesis, the effect of nanoscale sample size, microstructure and structural geometry on mechanical strength, deformation and fracture are explored for several classes of solid materials. Nanocrystalline platinum nano-cylinders with diameters of 60 nm to 1 μm and 12 nm sized grains are fabricated and tested in compression. We find that nano-sized metals containing few grains weaken as sample diameter is reduced relative to grain size due to a change from deformation governed by internal grains to surface grain governed deformation. Fracture at the nanoscale is explored by performing in-situ SEM tension tests on nanocrystalline platinum and amorphous, metallic glass nano-cylinders containing purposely introduced structural flaws. It is found that failure location, mechanism and strength are determined by the stress concentration with the highest local stress whether this is at the structural flaw or a microstructural feature. Principles of nano-mechanics are used to design and test mechanically robust hierarchical nanostructures with structural and electrochemical applications. 2-photon lithography and electroplating are used to fabricate 3D solid Cu octet meso-lattices with micron-scale features that exhibit strength higher than that of bulk Cu. An in-situ SEM lithiation stage is developed and used to simultaneously examine morphological and electrochemical changes in Si-coated Cu meso-lattices that are of interest as high energy capacity electrodes for Li-ion batteries.
Interfacing nanostructures to biological cells
Chen, Xing; Bertozzi, Carolyn R.; Zettl, Alexander K.
Disclosed herein are methods and materials by which nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes, nanorods, etc. are bound to lectins and/or polysaccharides and prepared for administration to cells. Also disclosed are complexes comprising glycosylated nanostructures, which bind selectively to cells expressing glycosylated surface molecules recognized by the lectin. Exemplified is a complex comprising a carbon nanotube functionalized with a lipid-like alkane, linked to a polymer bearing repeated .alpha.-N-acetylgalactosamine sugar groups. This complex is shown to selectively adhere to the surface of living cells, without toxicity. In the exemplified embodiment, adherence is mediated by a multivalent lectin, which binds both to the cells and the .alpha.-N-acetylgalactosamine groups on the nanostructure.
Zinc stannate nanostructures: hydrothermal synthesis
Baruah, Sunandan; Dutta, Joydeep
Nanostructured binary semiconducting metal oxides have received much attention in the last decade owing to their unique properties rendering them suitable for a wide range of applications. In the quest to further improve the physical and chemical properties, an interest in ternary complex oxides has become noticeable in recent times. Zinc stannate or zinc tin oxide (ZTO) is a class of ternary oxides that are known for their stable properties under extreme conditions, higher electron mobility compared to its binary counterparts and other interesting optical properties. The material is thus ideal for applications from solar cells and sensors to photocatalysts. Among the different methods of synthesizing ZTO nanostructures, the hydrothermal method is an attractive green process that is carried out at low temperatures. In this review, we summarize the conditions leading to the growth of different ZTO nanostructures using the hydrothermal method and delve into a few of its applications reported in the literature. PMID:27877377
Computationally designed peptides for self-assembly of nanostructured lattices
Zhang, Huixi Violet; Polzer, Frank; Haider, Michael J.; Tian, Yu; Villegas, Jose A.; Kiick, Kristi L.; Pochan, Darrin J.; Saven, Jeffery G.
Folded peptides present complex exterior surfaces specified by their amino acid sequences, and the control of these surfaces offers high-precision routes to self-assembling materials. The complexity of peptide structure and the subtlety of noncovalent interactions make the design of predetermined nanostructures difficult. Computational methods can facilitate this design and are used here to determine 29-residue peptides that form tetrahelical bundles that, in turn, serve as building blocks for lattice-forming materials. Four distinct assemblies were engineered. Peptide bundle exterior amino acids were designed in the context of three different interbundle lattices in addition to one design to produce bundles isolated in solution. Solution assembly produced three different types of lattice-forming materials that exhibited varying degrees of agreement with the chosen lattices used in the design of each sequence. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the nanostructure of the sheetlike nanomaterials. In contrast, the peptide sequence designed to form isolated, soluble, tetrameric bundles remained dispersed and did not form any higher-order assembled nanostructure. Small-angle neutron scattering confirmed the formation of soluble bundles with the designed size. In the lattice-forming nanostructures, the solution assembly process is robust with respect to variation of solution conditions (pH and temperature) and covalent modification of the computationally designed peptides. Solution conditions can be used to control micrometer-scale morphology of the assemblies. The findings illustrate that, with careful control of molecular structure and solution conditions, a single peptide motif can be versatile enough to yield a wide range of self-assembled lattice morphologies across many length scales (1 to 1000 nm). PMID:27626071
Concentration gradient induced morphology evolution of silica nanostructure growth on photoresist-derived carbon micropatterns
The evolution of silica nanostructure morphology induced by local Si vapor source concentration gradient has been investigated by a smart design of experiments. Silica nanostructure or their assemblies with different morphologies are obtained on photoresist-derived three-dimensional carbon microelectrode array. At a temperature of 1,000°C, rope-, feather-, and octopus-like nanowire assemblies can be obtained along with the Si vapor source concentration gradient flow. While at 950°C, stringlike assemblies, bamboo-like nanostructures with large joints, and hollow structures with smaller sizes can be obtained along with the Si vapor source concentration gradient flow. Both vapor–liquid-solid and vapor-quasiliquid-solid growth mechanisms have been applied to explain the diverse morphologies involving branching, connecting, and batch growth behaviors. The present approach offers a potential method for precise design and controlled synthesis of nanostructures with different features. PMID:22938090
Concentration gradient induced morphology evolution of silica nanostructure growth on photoresist-derived carbon micropatterns
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Liu, Dan; Shi, Tielin; Xi, Shuang; Lai, Wuxing; Liu, Shiyuan; Li, Xiaoping; Tang, Zirong
The evolution of silica nanostructure morphology induced by local Si vapor source concentration gradient has been investigated by a smart design of experiments. Silica nanostructure or their assemblies with different morphologies are obtained on photoresist-derived three-dimensional carbon microelectrode array. At a temperature of 1,000°C, rope-, feather-, and octopus-like nanowire assemblies can be obtained along with the Si vapor source concentration gradient flow. While at 950°C, stringlike assemblies, bamboo-like nanostructures with large joints, and hollow structures with smaller sizes can be obtained along with the Si vapor source concentration gradient flow. Both vapor-liquid-solid and vapor-quasiliquid-solid growth mechanisms have been applied to explain the diverse morphologies involving branching, connecting, and batch growth behaviors. The present approach offers a potential method for precise design and controlled synthesis of nanostructures with different features.
Self-Assembly of Peptide Amphiphiles: From Molecules to Nanostructures to Biomaterials
Cui, Honggang; Webber, Matthew J.
Peptide amphiphiles are a class of molecules that combine the structural features of amphiphilic surfactants with the functions of bioactive peptides and are known to assemble into a variety of nanostructures. A specific type of peptide amphiphiles are known to self-assemble into one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures under physiological conditions, predominantly nanofibers with a cylindrical geometry. The resultant nanostructures could be highly bioactive and are of great interest in many biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, regenerative medicine and drug delivery. In this context, we highlight our strategies for using molecular self-assembly as a toolbox to produce peptide amphiphile nanostructures and materials and efforts to translate this technology into applications as therapeutics. We also review our recent progress in using these materials for treating spinal cord injury, inducing angiogenesis, and for hard tissue regeneration and replacement. PMID:20091874
Nanostructured Substrates for Optical Sensing
Kemling, Jonathan W.; Qavi, Abraham J.; Bailey, Ryan C.
Sensors that change color have the advantages of versatility, ease of use, high sensitivity, and low cost. The recent development of optically based chemical sensing platforms has increasingly employed substrates manufactured with advanced processing or fabrication techniques to provide precise control over shape and morphology of the sensor micro- and nano-structure. New sensors have resulted with improved capabilities for a number of sensing applications, including the detection of biomolecules and environmental monitoring. This perspective focuses on recent optical sensor devices that utilize nanostructured substrates. PMID:22174955
Vortex ice in nanostructured superconductors
Reichhardt, Charles; Reichhardt, Cynthia J; Libal, Andras J
We demonstrate using numerical simulations of nanostructured superconductors that it is possible to realize vortex ice states that are analogous to square and kagome ice. The system can be brought into a state that obeys either global or local ice rules by applying an external current according to an annealing protocol. We explore the breakdown of the ice rules due to disorder in the nanostructure array and show that in square ice, topological defects appear along grain boundaries, while in kagome ice, individual defects appear. We argue that the vortex system offers significant advantages over other artificial ice systems.
Optimized nanostructured TiO2 photocatalysts
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Topcu, Selda; Jodhani, Gagan; Gouma, Pelagia
Titania is the most widely studied photocatalyst. In it's mixed-phase configuration (anatase-rutile form) -as manifested in the commercially available P25 Degussa material- titania was previously found to exhibit the best photocatalytic properties reported for the pure system. A great deal of published research by various workers in the field have not fully explained the underlying mechanism for the observed behavior of mixed-phase titania photocatalysts. One of the prevalent hypothesis in the literature that is tested in this work involves the presence of small, active clusters of interwoven anatase and rutile crystallites or "catalytic "hot-spots"". Therefore, non-woven nanofibrous mats of titania were produced and upon calcination the mats consisted of nanostructured fibers with different anatase-rutile ratios. By assessing the photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical properties of these samples the optimized photocatalyst was determined. This consisted of TiO2 nanostructures annealed at 500˚C with an anatase /rutile content of 90/10. Since the performance of this material exceeded that of P25 complete structural characterization was employed to understand the catalytic mechanism involved. It was determined that the dominant factors controlling the photocatalytic behavior of the titania system are the relative particle size of the different phases of titania and the growth of rutile laths on anatase grains which allow for rapid electron transfer between the two phases. This explains how to optimize the response of the pure system.
Nanostructured Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrodes
Sholklapper, Tal Zvi
The ability of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) to directly and efficiently convert the chemical energy in hydrocarbon fuels to electricity places the technology in a unique and exciting position to play a significant role in the clean energy revolution. In order to make SOFC technology cost competitive with existing technologies, the operating temperatures have been decreased to the range where costly ceramic components may be substituted with inexpensive metal components within the cell and stack design. However, a number of issues have arisen due to this decrease in temperature: decreased electrolyte ionic conductivity, cathode reaction rate limitations, and a decrease in anode contaminant tolerance. While the decrease in electrolyte ionic conductivities has been countered by decreasing the electrolyte thickness, the electrode limitations have remained a more difficult problem. Nanostructuring SOFC electrodes addresses the major electrode issues. The infiltration method used in this dissertation to produce nanostructure SOFC electrodes creates a connected network of nanoparticles; since the method allows for the incorporation of the nanoparticles after electrode backbone formation, previously incompatible advanced electrocatalysts can be infiltrated providing electronic conductivity and electrocatalysis within well-formed electrolyte backbones. Furthermore, the method is used to significantly enhance the conventional electrode design by adding secondary electrocatalysts. Performance enhancement and improved anode contamination tolerance are demonstrated in each of the electrodes. Additionally, cell processing and the infiltration method developed in conjunction with this dissertation are reviewed.
Nanostructured solid oxide fuel cell electrodes
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sholklapper, Tal Zvi
The ability of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) to directly and efficiently convert the chemical energy in hydrocarbon fuels to electricity places the technology in a unique and exciting position to play a significant role in the clean energy revolution. In order to make SOFC technology cost competitive with existing technologies, the operating temperatures have been decreased to the range where costly ceramic components may be substituted with inexpensive metal components within the cell and stack design. However, a number of issues have arisen due to this decrease in temperature: decreased electrolyte ionic conductivity, cathode reaction rate limitations, and a decrease in anode contaminant tolerance. While the decrease in electrolyte ionic conductivities has been countered by decreasing the electrolyte thickness, the electrode limitations have remained a more difficult problem. Nanostructuring SOFC electrodes addresses the major electrode issues. The infiltration method used in this dissertation to produce nanostructure SOFC electrodes creates a connected network of nanoparticles; since the method allows for the incorporation of the nanoparticles after electrode backbone formation, previously incompatible advanced electrocatalysts can be infiltrated providing electronic conductivity and electrocatalysis within well-formed electrolyte backbones. Furthermore, the method is used to significantly enhance the conventional electrode design by adding secondary electrocatalysts. Performance enhancement and improved anode contamination tolerance are demonstrated in each of the electrodes. Additionally, cell processing and the infiltration method developed in conjunction with this dissertation are reviewed.
Synthesis Technique and Characterizations of Silver Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Rajawat, Shweta; Qureshi, M. S.
In this work, we report synthesis of nanostructures of silver nanoparticles using X-ray films. Exposed X-ray films, which consist of silver nanoparticles, are cut into small pieces of size 1 cm × 1 cm. These pieces were heated in distilled water at temperature 70°C. These nanoparticles, separated from heated films, are simultaneously collected through electrolytic deposition using copper and carbon rods. The carbon rod is wrapped over by Low density polyethylene (LDPE) sheet for easy extraction. This process was carried in two different environments (1) in broad daylight and (2) on a cloudy day. Characterization of the two samples was done using X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. XRD of the particles gave peaks well in accordance with JCPDS file 04-. This result confirms formation of highly pure silver nanoparticles. TEM revealed that the interaction of silver nanoparticles with sunlight gave chain like structures whereas in the absence of interaction with sunlight, cloudy day, nanoflowers were formed. Nanostructures were more prominent for bigger particles.
Nanostructured Origami (Trademark) 3D Fabrication and Self Assembly Process for Soldier Combat Systems
the Japanese art of " origami ") involves patterning adjacent 2D membranes that can be lifted off (using methods we have developed) of a silicon...innovative process holds immense potential for the Army's Objective Force Warrior. Nanostructured Origami enables many practical and promising...Nanostructured Origami allows such devices to be formed from a single, micro/nanofabricated layer. In addition, nanoarchitecture can be added
Nanostructured Bearing Alloy Studies
obtained in the alpha - iron which is 2.88 A. In the region pointed by the arrows there is a new set of fringes with a large interplanar distance. These...crystalline alpha - iron . Fig. 3 on the other hand, shows two kinds of high resolution features. Firstly, there is a set of weak lattices fringes whcih run
One-dimensional ZnO nanostructures.
Jayadevan, K P; Tseng, T Y
The wide-gap semiconductor ZnO with nanostructures such as nanoparticle, nanorod, nanowire, nanobelt, nanotube has high potential for a variety of applications. This article reviews the fundamentals of one-dimensional ZnO nanostructures, including processing, structure, property, application and their processing-microstructure-property correlation. Various fabrication methods of the ZnO nanostructures including vapor-liquid-solid process, vapor-solid growth, solution growth, solvothermal growth, template-assisted growth and self-assembly are introduced. The characterization and properties of the ZnO nanostructures are described. The possible applications of these nanostructures are also discussed.
System and method of forming nanostructured ferritic alloy
Dial, Laura Cerully; DiDomizio, Richard; Alinger, Matthew Joseph; Huang, Shenyan
A system for mechanical milling and a method of mechanical milling are disclosed. The system includes a container, a feedstock, and milling media. The container encloses a processing volume. The feedstock and the milling media are disposed in the processing volume of the container. The feedstock includes metal or alloy powder and a ceramic compound. The feedstock is mechanically milled in the processing volume using metallic milling media that includes a surface portion that has a carbon content less than about 0.4 weight percent.
Magnetostatic interactions between wire-tube nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Salazar-Aravena, D.; Palma, J. L.; Escrig, J.
We have investigated the magnetostatic interactions between wire-tube nanostructures. We have observed that the coercivity of the array decreases when the distance between the nanostructures decreases. Besides, when the external magnetic field is applied along the axis of the nanostructures, the two Barkhausen jumps observed for an isolated wire-tube nanostructure give rise to several minor jumps for a weakly interacting array, which eventually become a single jump for the most interacting case. Additionally, the angle θ at which maximum coercivity is obtained varies as a function of the center-to-center distance between the nanostructures, while those remanences obtained for arrays with different distances between the nanostructures coincide. In this way, the study of magnetostatic interactions between wire-tube nanostructures is an interesting topic of research in connection with potential applications where it is usually desirable to avoid such interactions or at least control them.
Vertically Aligned Nanostructured Arrays of Inorganic Materials: Synthesis, Distinctive Physical Phenomena, and Device Integration
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Velazquez, Jesus Manuel
The manifestation of novel physical phenomena upon scaling materials to finite size has inspired new device concepts that take advantage of the distinctive electrical, mechanical, and optical, properties of nanostructures. The development of fabrication approaches for the preparation of their 1D nanostructured form, such as nanowires and nanotubes, has contributed greatly to advancing fundamental understanding of these systems, and has spurred the integration of these materials in novel electronics, photonic devices, power sources, and energy scavenging constructs. Significant progress has been achieved over the last decade in the preparation of ordered arrays of carbon nanotubes, II---VI and III---V semiconductors, and some binary oxides such as ZnO. In contrast, relatively less attention has been focused on layered materials with potential for electrochemical energy storage. Here, we describe the catalyzed vapor transport growth of vertical arrays of orthorhombic V2O 5 nanowires. In addition, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy is used to precisely probe the alignment, uniformity in crystal growth direction, and electronic structure of single-crystalline V2O5 nanowire arrays prepared by a cobalt-catalyzed vapor transport process. The dipole selection rules operational for core-level electron spectroscopy enable angle-dependant NEXAFS spectroscopy to be used as a sensitive probe of the anisotropy of these systems and provides detailed insight into bond orientation and the symmetry of the frontier orbital states. The experimental spectra are matched to previous theoretical predictions and allow experimental verification of features such as the origin of the split-off conduction band responsible for the n-type conductivity of V2O5 and the strongly anisotropic nature of vanadyl-oxygen-derived (V=O) states thought to be involved in catalysis. We have also invested substantial effort in obtaining shape and size control of metal oxide
In situ fabricate Cu{sub 2}S thin film with hierarchical petal-like nanostructures
Li, Jing; Zhao, Hongxiao Chen, Xinhua; Jia, Huimin; Zheng, Zhi
Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Cu{sub 2}S thin films with hierarchical nanostructures have been synthesized by solvothermal method using DMSO as reactant. • The band gap is estimated to be 1.0 eV of the Cu{sub 2}S hierarchical nanostructures. • The form process of Cu{sub 2}S and the possible mechanism of hierarchical nanostructures were proposed. - Abstract: In this paper, Cu{sub 2}S thin film with hierarchical petal-like nanostructures has been successfully in situ synthesized via a solvothermal method using DMSO as reactant under appropriate reaction conditions. The crystalline phase, morphology and optical properties of the resulting products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, respectively. The band gap is estimated to be about 1.0 eV by the results of UV–vis absorption spectroscopy of the Cu{sub 2}S thin film with hierarchical nanostructures that consisted of nanoslices with the thickness of 15 nm. The formation process of Cu{sub 2}S and the possible mechanism of hierarchical nanostructures were also proposed. These findings are valuable since Cu{sub 2}S thin film with hierarchical petal-like nanostructures are promising candidate as lithium ion battery and solar cell materials.
Growth, characterization and electrochemical properties of hierarchical CuO nanostructures for supercapacitor applications
Krishnamoorthy, Karthikeyan; Kim, Sang-Jae
Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Hierarchical CuO nanostructures were grown on Cu foil. • Monoclinic phase of CuO was grown. • XPS analysis revealed the presence of Cu(2p{sub 3/2}) and Cu(2p{sub 1/2}) on the surfaces. • Specific capacitance of 94 F/g was achieved for the CuO using cyclic voltammetry. • Impedance spectra show their pseudo capacitor applications. - Abstract: In this paper, we have investigated the electrochemical properties of hierarchical CuO nanostructures for pseudo-supercapacitor device applications. Moreover, the CuO nanostructures were formed on Cu substrate by in situ crystallization process. The as-grown CuO nanostructures were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infra red spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and field emission-scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis. The XRD and FT-IR analysis confirm the formation of monoclinic CuO nanostructures. FE-SEM analysis shows the formation of leave like hierarchical structures of CuO with high uniformity and controlled density. The electrochemical analysis such as cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies confirms the pseudo-capacitive behavior of the CuO nanostructures. Our experimental results suggest that CuO nanostructures will create promising applications of CuO toward pseudo-supercapacitors.
Self-assembled mirror DNA nanostructures for tumor-specific delivery of anticancer drugs.
Kim, Kyoung-Ran; Kim, Hyo Young; Lee, Yong-Deok; Ha, Jong Seong; Kang, Ji Hee; Jeong, Hansaem; Bang, Duhee; Ko, Young Tag; Kim, Sehoon; Lee, Hyukjin; Ahn, Dae-Ro
Nanoparticle delivery systems have been extensively investigated for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs over the past decades. However, it is still a great challenge to overcome the drawbacks of conventional nanoparticle systems such as liposomes and micelles. Various novel nanomaterials consist of natural polymers are proposed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs. Among them, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) has received much attention as an emerging material for preparation of self-assembled nanostructures with precise control of size and shape for tailored uses. In this study, self-assembled mirror DNA tetrahedron nanostructures is developed for tumor-specific delivery of anticancer drugs. l-DNA, a mirror form of natural d-DNA, is utilized for resolving a poor serum stability of natural d-DNA. The mirror DNA nanostructures show identical thermodynamic properties to that of natural d-DNA, while possessing far enhanced serum stability. This unique characteristic results in a significant effect on the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of DNA nanostructures. It is demonstrated that the mirror DNA nanostructures can deliver anticancer drugs selectively to tumors with enhanced cellular and tissue penetration. Furthermore, the mirror DNA nanostructures show greater anticancer effects as compared to that of conventional PEGylated liposomes. Our new approach provides an alternative strategy for tumor-specific delivery of anticancer drugs and highlights the promising potential of the mirror DNA nanostructures as a novel drug delivery platform.
Modeling the Electron Transport in Nanostructures by Using the Concept of BIons in M-theory
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sepehri, Alireza; Pincak, Richard
In this paper, using the similarity between quantum tunnels in nanostructures and BIon in M-theory, we propose a new model which considers the process of formation of superconductors in nanostructures. We show that by decreasing the size of nanostructures, emitted photons by electrons connect to each other and form a wormhole-like tunnel. This tunnel is a channel for transporting electron inside the nanostructure. If different wormhole-like tunnels join to each other, one big tunnel is constructed that can be an origin for superconductivity in matter. The superconductor order parameter depends on the size of nanostructure and temperature. Increasing temperature, it is shown that the model matches with quantum theory prescriptions. Also, by applying external electromagnetism, external photons interact with exchanging photons between electrons, exchanging photons deviate from original route and the formation of wormhole-like tunnels inside a nanostructure is prevented. Finally, it is shown that the origin of electrodynamics and gravity are the same and thus, the phrase of wormhole can be applied for appeared tunnels in nanostructures.
Structure and physical properties of Fe6 O8/ba Fe6 O11 nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Naseri, Mahmoud; Ghasemi, Rahmat
The thermal treatment method was employed to prepare barium hexaferrite (Fe6 O8/Ba Fe6 O11) nanostructure. This method was attempted to achieve higher homogeneity of the final product. Specimens of barium hexaferrite nanostructure were characterized by various experimental techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). X-ray diffraction results showed that there was no crystallinity in the predecessor and it had still amorphous phase. The formations of crystalline phases of barium hexaferrite nanostructures started from 673 to 973 K and the final products had different crystallite sizes ranging from 29 to 48 nm. The chemical analysis of the barium hexaferrite nanostructures was performed by energy dispersion X-ray analysis (EDXA), demonstrated that the barium hexaferrite nanostructures contained the elements of Ba, Fe, and O. The effect of calcination temperature on band gap energy was studied by UV-vis absorption spectra disclosed when calcination temperature increased, the appraised band gap energy values of the BaFe12O19 nanostructures decreased. The formed nanostructures exhibited ferromagnetic behaviors which were confirmed by using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The technique of the Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was carried out at 300 K on the calcined specimens that exhibited the variation of the line-shapes of the spectra of with calcination temperature.
Computer Code for Nanostructure Simulation
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Filikhin, Igor; Vlahovic, Branislav
Due to their small size, nanostructures can have stress and thermal gradients that are larger than any macroscopic analogue. These gradients can lead to specific regions that are susceptible to failure via processes such as plastic deformation by dislocation emission, chemical debonding, and interfacial alloying. A program has been developed that rigorously simulates and predicts optoelectronic properties of nanostructures of virtually any geometrical complexity and material composition. It can be used in simulations of energy level structure, wave functions, density of states of spatially configured phonon-coupled electrons, excitons in quantum dots, quantum rings, quantum ring complexes, and more. The code can be used to calculate stress distributions and thermal transport properties for a variety of nanostructures and interfaces, transport and scattering at nanoscale interfaces and surfaces under various stress states, and alloy compositional gradients. The code allows users to perform modeling of charge transport processes through quantum-dot (QD) arrays as functions of inter-dot distance, array order versus disorder, QD orientation, shape, size, and chemical composition for applications in photovoltaics and physical properties of QD-based biochemical sensors. The code can be used to study the hot exciton formation/relation dynamics in arrays of QDs of different shapes and sizes at different temperatures. It also can be used to understand the relation among the deposition parameters and inherent stresses, strain deformation, heat flow, and failure of nanostructures.
Processing Nanostructured Structural Ceramics
nanosuspensions that are stable and can be used in wet forming routes such as slip or gel casting; and The pressureless sintering of green bodies to...Rheology of nanosuspensions Although die pressing is a fast and cheap green forming route, and hence the most common method used by industry for the... nanosuspensions . When optimised, it has been possible to achieve a solid content of ~75 wt% whilst keeping the viscosity to ɘ.8 Pa s (typical limit for
SP1 protein-based nanostructures and arrays.
Medalsy, Izhar; Dgany, Or; Sowwan, Mukhles; Cohen, Hezy; Yukashevska, Alevtyna; Wolf, Sharon G; Wolf, Amnon; Koster, Abraham; Almog, Orna; Marton, Ira; Pouny, Yehonathan; Altman, Arie; Shoseyov, Oded; Porath, Danny
Controlled formation of complex nanostructures is one of the main goals of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Stable Protein 1 (SP1) is a boiling-stable ring protein complex, 11 nm in diameter, which self-assembles from 12 identical monomers. SP1 can be utilized to form large ordered arrays; it can be easily modified by genetic engineering to produce various mutants; it is also capable of binding gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and thus forming protein-GNP chains made of alternating SP1s and GNPs. We report the formation and the protocols leading to the formation of those nanostructures and their characterization by transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and electrostatic force microscopy. Further control over the GNP interdistances within the protein-GNP chains may lead to the formation of nanowires and structures that may be useful for nanoelectronics.
Direct printing of nanostructures by electrostatic autofocussing of ink nanodroplets
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Galliker, P.; Schneider, J.; Eghlidi, H.; Kress, S.; Sandoghdar, V.; Poulikakos, D.
Nanotechnology, with its broad impact on societally relevant applications, relies heavily on the availability of accessible nanofabrication methods. Even though a host of such techniques exists, the flexible, inexpensive, on-demand and scalable fabrication of functional nanostructures remains largely elusive. Here we present a method involving nanoscale electrohydrodynamic ink-jet printing that may significantly contribute in this direction. A combination of nanoscopic placement precision, soft-landing fluid dynamics, rapid solvent vapourization, and subsequent self-assembly of the ink colloidal content leads to the formation of scaffolds with base diameters equal to that of a single ejected nanodroplet. The virtually material-independent growth of nanostructures into the third dimension is then governed by an autofocussing phenomenon caused by local electrostatic field enhancement, resulting in large aspect ratio. We demonstrate the capabilities of our electrohydrodynamic printing technique with several examples, including the fabrication of plasmonic nanoantennas with features sizes down to 50 nm.
Direct printing of nanostructures by electrostatic autofocussing of ink nanodroplets.
Galliker, P; Schneider, J; Eghlidi, H; Kress, S; Sandoghdar, V; Poulikakos, D
Nanotechnology, with its broad impact on societally relevant applications, relies heavily on the availability of accessible nanofabrication methods. Even though a host of such techniques exists, the flexible, inexpensive, on-demand and scalable fabrication of functional nanostructures remains largely elusive. Here we present a method involving nanoscale electrohydrodynamic ink-jet printing that may significantly contribute in this direction. A combination of nanoscopic placement precision, soft-landing fluid dynamics, rapid solvent vapourization, and subsequent self-assembly of the ink colloidal content leads to the formation of scaffolds with base diameters equal to that of a single ejected nanodroplet. The virtually material-independent growth of nanostructures into the third dimension is then governed by an autofocussing phenomenon caused by local electrostatic field enhancement, resulting in large aspect ratio. We demonstrate the capabilities of our electrohydrodynamic printing technique with several examples, including the fabrication of plasmonic nanoantennas with features sizes down to 50 nm.
Nanostructural hierarchy increases the strength of aluminium alloys.
Liddicoat, Peter V; Liao, Xiao-Zhou; Zhao, Yonghao; Zhu, Yuntian; Murashkin, Maxim Y; Lavernia, Enrique J; Valiev, Ruslan Z; Ringer, Simon P
Increasing the strength of metallic alloys while maintaining formability is an interesting challenge for enabling new generations of lightweight structures and technologies. In this paper, we engineer aluminium alloys to contain a hierarchy of nanostructures and possess mechanical properties that expand known performance boundaries-an aerospace-grade 7075 alloy exhibits a yield strength and uniform elongation approaching 1 GPa and 5%, respectively. The nanostructural architecture was observed using novel high-resolution microscopy techniques and comprises a solid solution, free of precipitation, featuring (i) a high density of dislocations, (ii) subnanometre intragranular solute clusters, (iii) two geometries of nanometre-scale intergranular solute structures and (iv) grain sizes tens of nanometres in diameter. Our results demonstrate that this novel architecture offers a design pathway towards a new generation of super-strong materials with new regimes of property-performance space.
Silver nanowires--unique templates for functional nanostructures.
Sun, Yugang
This feature article reviews the synthesis and application of silver nanowires with the focus on a polyol process that is capable of producing high quality silver nanowires with high yield. The as-synthesized silver nanowires can be used as both physical templates for the synthesis of metal/dielectric core/shell nanowires and chemical templates for the synthesis of metal nanotubes as well as semiconductor nanowires. Typical examples including Ag/SiO(2) coaxial nanocables, single- and multiple-walled nanotubes made of Au-Ag alloy, AgCl nanowires and AgCl/Au core/shell nanowires are discussed in detail to illustrate the versatility of nanostructures derived from silver nanowire templates. Novel properties associated with these one-dimensional nanostructures are also briefly discussed to shed the light on their potential applications in electronics, photonics, optoelectronics, catalysis, and medicine.
Optical routing and switching of energy flow in nanostructure systems
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sadeghi, S. M.
We study optical routing and switching of energy transfer between semiconductor quantum dots and metallic nanostructures. We demonstrate that in the presence of a metallic nanoshell, one can use quantum coherence to direct or switch energy transfer flow from a quantum dot to another quantum dot or to the nanoshell. Our results show that a quantum dot-metallic nanoshell system can act as a bistable energy switch formed via quantum mechanical control of energy transfer processes.
Nano-structured polymer composites and process for preparing same
Hillmyer, Marc; Chen, Liang
A process for preparing a polymer composite that includes reacting (a) a multi-functional monomer and (b) a block copolymer comprising (i) a first block and (ii) a second block that includes a functional group capable of reacting with the multi-functional monomer, to form a crosslinked, nano-structured, bi-continuous composite. The composite includes a continuous matrix phase and a second continuous phase comprising the first block of the block copolymer.
Nanostructures from hydrogen implantation of metals.
McWatters, Bruce Ray; Causey, Rion A.; DePuit, Ryan J.; Yang, Nancy Y. C.; Ong, Markus D.
This study investigates a pathway to nanoporous structures created by hydrogen implantation in aluminum. Previous experiments for fusion applications have indicated that hydrogen and helium ion implantations are capable of producing bicontinuous nanoporous structures in a variety of metals. This study focuses specifically on hydrogen and helium implantations of aluminum, including complementary experimental results and computational modeling of this system. Experimental results show the evolution of the surface morphology as the hydrogen ion fluence increases from 10{sup 17} cm{sup -2} to 10{sup 18} cm{sup -2}. Implantations of helium at a fluence of 10{sup 18} cm{sup -2} produce porosity on the order of 10 nm. Computational modeling demonstrates the formation of alanes, their desorption, and the resulting etching of aluminum surfaces that likely drives the nanostructures that form in the presence of hydrogen.
Nitrogen photofixation on nanostructured iron titanate films.
Rusina, Olga; Linnik, Oksana; Eremenko, Anna; Kisch, Horst
A nanostructured iron titanate thin film has been prepared by a sol-gel method from iron(III) chloride and titanium tetraisopropylate. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis and Mössbauer spectroscopy suggest the presence of a Fe(2)Ti(2)O(7) phase, which was previously obtained as an intermediary phase upon heating ilmenite. In the presence of ethanol or humic acids and traces of oxygen, the novel film photocatalyzes the fixation of dinitrogen to ammonia (17 microM) and nitrate (45 microM). In the first observable reaction step, hydrazine is produced and then undergoes further photoreduction to ammonia. Oxidation of the latter by oxygen affords nitrate as the final product. Since the reaction occurs also in air and with visible light (lambda>455 nm), and since the iron titanate phase may be formed by the weathering of ilmenite minerals, it may be a model for mutual nonenzymatic nitrogen fixation in nature.
Thermomechanical formation of polymer nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
King, William Paul
Since its invention in 1986, the atomic force microscope (AFM) has emerged as the most widely used transducer for nanoscience and nanotechnology. Of the many uses of AFM, the ability to form and detect nanometer-scale structures has brought AFM to the forefront of data storage technology. In thermomechanical data storage, a heated AFM cantilever tip scans over and melts small data bit indentations into a thin polymer film. Small changes in the cantilever temperature signal, which correspond to changes in the thermal impedance between the cantilever and the data substrate, can detect the presence of previously written data bits. Nearly all of the figures of merit for a thermomechanical data storage system include mechanical transport dependence. Heat transfer in the cantilever governs the sensitivity of thermal data reading. The cantilever and the polymer data layer are thermally and mechanically coupled through the tip, and heat and mass transfer in both govern the minimum writing time, required writing temperature, and resulting size of the written bits. The slow melting of data bits at elevated temperature governs bit lifetime. Each of these bit-level phenomena sets limits on data storage system-level parameters, such as power consumption, data rate, and requirements for data encoding. This dissertation reports fundamental and applied work done at Stanford University and the IBM Zurich Research Laboratory on the development of a thermomechanical data storage system. A measurement of near zero shear rate viscosity of three-dimensional nanostructures in the polymer data layer aids in understanding data bit stability. Thermal modeling of cantilever operation accounts for sub-continuum heat transfer in the cantilever, cantilever tip, and polymer layer, and illuminates the basic mechanisms of thermal writing and reading. Analysis of the bit formation process predicts onset writing conditions and possible tip design improvements. Measurement and simulation of
Fabrication of zein nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Luecha, Jarupat
resins. The soft lithography technique was mainly used to fabricate micro and nanostructures on zein films. Zein material well-replicated small structures with the smallest size at sub micrometer scale that resulted in interesting photonic properties. The bonding method was also developed for assembling portable zein microfluidic devices with small shape distortion. Zein-zein and zein-glass microfluidic devices demonstrated sufficient strength to facilitate fluid flow in a complex microfluidic design with no leakage. Aside from the fabrication technique development, several potential applications of this environmentally friendly microfluidic device were investigated. The concentration gradient manipulation of Rhodamine B solution in zein-glass microfluidic devices was demonstrated. The diffusion of small molecules such as fluorescent dye into the wall of the zein microfluidic channels was observed. However, with this formulation, zein microfluidic devices were not suitable for cell culture applications. This pioneer study covered a wide spectrum of the implementation of the two nanotechnology approaches to advance zein biomaterial which provided proof of fundamental concepts as well as presenting some limitations. The findings in this study can lead to several innovative research opportunities of advanced zein biomaterials with broad applications. The information from the study of zein nanocomposite structure allows the packaging industry to develop the low cost biodegradable materials with physical property improvement. The information from the study of the zein microfluidic devices allows agro-industry to develop the nanotechnology-enabled microfluidic sensors fabricated entirely from biodegradable polymer for on-site disease or contaminant detection in the fields of food and agriculture.
Coupled leaky mode theory for light absorption in 2D, 1D, and 0D semiconductor nanostructures.
Yu, Yiling; Cao, Linyou
We present an intuitive, simple theoretical model, coupled leaky mode theory (CLMT), to analyze the light absorption of 2D, 1D, and 0D semiconductor nanostructures. This model correlates the light absorption of nanostructures to the optical coupling between incident light and leaky modes of the nanostructure. Unlike conventional methods such as Mie theory that requests specific physical features of nanostructures to evaluate the absorption, the CLMT model provides an unprecedented capability to analyze the absorption using eigen values of the leaky modes. Because the eigenvalue shows very mild dependence on the physical features of nanostructures, we can generally apply one set of eigenvalues calculated using a real, constant refractive index to calculations for the absorption of various nanostructures with different sizes, different materials, and wavelength-dependent complex refractive index. This CLMT model is general, simple, yet reasonably accurate, and offers new intuitive physical insights that the light absorption of nanostructures is governed by the coupling efficiency between incident light and leaky modes of the structure.
Rat glutathione S-transferase M4-4: an isoenzyme with unique structural features including a redox-reactive cysteine-115 residue that forms mixed disulphides with glutathione.
Cheng, H; Tchaikovskaya, T; Tu, Y S; Chapman, J; Qian, B; Ching, W M; Tien, M; Rowe, J D; Patskovsky, Y V; Listowsky, I; Tu, C P
Although the existence of the rat glutathione S-transferase (GST) M4 (rGSTM4) gene has been known for some time, the corresponding protein has not as yet been purified from tissue. A recombinant rGSTM4-4 was thus expressed in Escherichia coli from a chemically synthesized rGSTM4 gene. The catalytic efficiency (k(cat)/K(m)) of rGSTM4-4 for the 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) conjugation reaction was 50-180-fold less than that of the well-characterized homologous rGSTM1-1, and the pH optimum for the same reaction was 8.5 for rGSTM4-4 as opposed to 6.5 for rGSTM1-1. Molecular-modelling studies predict that key substitutions in the helix alpha4 region of rGSTM4-4 account for this pK(a) difference. A notable structural feature of rGSTM4-4 is the Cys-115 residue in place of the Tyr-115 of other Mu-class GSTs. The thiol group of Cys-115 is redox-reactive and readily forms a mixed disulphide even with GSH; the S-glutathiolated form of the enzyme is catalytically active. A mutated rGSTM4-4 (C115Y) had 6-10-fold greater catalytic efficiency than the wild-type rGSTM4-4. Trp-45, a conserved residue among Mu-class GSTs, is essential in rGSTM4-4 for both enzyme activity and binding to glutathione affinity matrices. Antibodies directed against either the unique C-terminal undecapeptide or tridecapeptide of rGSTM4 reacted with rat and mouse liver GSTs to reveal an orthologous mouse GSTM4-4 present at low basal levels but which is inducible in mouse liver. This subclass of rodent Mu GSTs with redox-active Cys-115 residues could have specialized physiological functions in response to oxidative stress. PMID:11368767
Nanostructured polymeric scaffolds for orthopaedic regenerative engineering.
Deng, Meng; James, Roshan; Laurencin, Cato T; Kumbar, Sangamesh G
Successful regeneration necessitates the development of three-dimensional (3-D) tissue-inducing scaffolds that mimic the hierarchical architecture of native tissue extracellular matrix (ECM). Cells in nature recognize and interact with the surface topography they are exposed to via ECM proteins. The interaction of cells with nanotopographical features such as pores, ridges, groves, fibers, nodes, and their combinations has proven to be an important signaling modality in controlling cellular processes. Integrating nanotopographical cues is especially important in engineering complex tissues that have multiple cell types and require precisely defined cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions on the nanoscale. Thus, in a regenerative engineering approach, nanoscale materials/scaffolds play a paramount role in controlling cell fate and the consequent regenerative capacity. Advances in nanotechnology have generated a new toolbox for the fabrication of tissue-specific nanostructured scaffolds. For example, biodegradable polymers such as polyesters, polyphosphazenes, polymer blends and composites can be electrospun into ECM-mimicking matrices composed of nanofibers, which provide high surface area for cell attachment, growth, and differentiation. This review provides the fundamental guidelines for the design and development of nanostructured scaffolds for the regeneration of various tissue types in human upper and lower extremities such as skin, ligament, tendon, and bone. Examples focusing on the collective work of our laboratory in those areas are discussed to demonstrate the regenerative efficacy of this approach. Furthermore, preliminary strategies and significant challenges to integrate these individual tissues into one complex organ through regenerative engineering-based integrated graft systems are also discussed.
Nanostructure-Preserved Hematite Thin Film for Efficient Solar Water Splitting.
Kim, Jae Young; Youn, Duck Hyun; Kim, Ju Hun; Kim, Hyun Gyu; Lee, Jae Sung
High-temperature annealing above 700 °C improves the activity of photoelectrochemical water oxidation by hematite photoanodes by increasing its crystallinity. Yet, it brings severe agglomeration of nanostructured hematite thin films and deteriorates electrical conductivity of the transparent conducting oxide (TCO) substrate. We report here that the nanostructure of the hematite and the conductivity of TCO could be preserved, while the high crystallinity is attained, by hybrid microwave annealing (HMA) utilizing a graphite susceptor for efficient microwave absorption. Thus, the hematite thin-film photoanodes treated by HMA record 2 times higher water oxidation photocurrents compared to a conventional thermal-annealed photoanode. The enhanced performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect of a smaller feature size of nanostructure-preserved hematite and a good electrical conductivity of TCO. The method could be generally applied to the fabrication of efficient photoelectrodes with small feature sizes and high crystallinity, which have been mutually conflicting requirements with conventional thermal annealing processes.
Nanostructure Formation by controlled dewetting on patterned substrates: A combined theoretical, modeling and experimental study
Lu, Liang-Xing; Wang, Ying-Min; Srinivasan, Bharathi Madurai; Asbahi, Mohamed; Yang, Joel K. W.; Zhang, Yong-Wei
We perform systematic two-dimensional energetic analysis to study the stability of various nanostructures formed by dewetting solid films deposited on patterned substrates. Our analytical results show that by controlling system parameters such as the substrate surface pattern, film thickness and wetting angle, a variety of equilibrium nanostructures can be obtained. Phase diagrams are presented to show the complex relations between these system parameters and various nanostructure morphologies. We further carry out both phase field simulations and dewetting experiments to validate the analytically derived phase diagrams. Good agreements between the results from our energetic analyses and those from our phase field simulations and experiments verify our analysis. Hence, the phase diagrams presented here provide guidelines for using solid-state dewetting as a tool to achieve various nanostructures. PMID:27580943
Large-scale fabrication of flexible metallic nanostructure pairs using interference ablation.
Zhai, Tianrui; Wang, Yonglu; Liu, Hongmei; Zhang, Xinping
Paired one- and two-dimensional metallic nanostructures are created directly by exposing a thin gold film to the interference pattern between ultraviolet laser pulses, where the gold film is coated onto a soft substrate and is sandwiched by another soft slab. Metallic films in the bright fringes are melted and transformed into nanodroplets that are ejected onto the soft slab forming stretchable nanoisland structures. The pattern of the remaining films is coincident with the dark fringes. Thus, complementary metallic nanostructure pairs were fabricated using a single laser pulse. Fano resonance can be observed in the spectroscopic response of the fabricated nanostructures for TM and TE polarizations simultaneously. This nanofabrication technique may provide an annealing-free approach for the fabrication of flexible metallic nanostructures on a large scale and with low cost.
Synthesis and characterisation of flower shaped zinc oxide nanostructures and its antimicrobial activity.
Mohan Kumar, Kesarla; Mandal, Badal Kumar; Appala Naidu, Etcherla; Sinha, Madhulika; Siva Kumar, Koppala; Sreedhara Reddy, Pamanji
Flower shaped Zinc Oxide nanostructures was synthesized using a simple method without using any structure directing agents. Elemental analysis, crystalline nature, shape and size were examined using Powder X-ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDAX). XRD revealed the formation of hexagonal ZnO nanostructures. SEM and TEM analyses revealed the formation of crystalline ZnO flowers in which a bunch of ZnO nanorods assembled together to form a leaf like structure followed by flower shaped ZnO nanostructures. Thus synthesised ZnO nanostructures showed good antimicrobial activity towards gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus as well as gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli with a MIC/MBC of 25mg/L.
Single-Molecule Investigations of Morphology and Mass Transport Dynamics in Nanostructured Materials
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Higgins, Daniel A.; Park, Seok Chan; Tran-Ba, Khanh-Hoa; Ito, Takashi
Nanostructured materials such as mesoporous metal oxides and phase-separated block copolymers form the basis for new monolith, membrane, and thin film technologies having applications in energy storage, chemical catalysis, and separations. Mass transport plays an integral role in governing the application-specific performance characteristics of many such materials. The majority of methods employed in their characterization provide only ensemble data, often masking the nanoscale, molecular-level details of materials morphology and mass transport. Single-molecule fluorescence methods offer direct routes to probing these characteristics on a single-molecule/single-nanostructure basis. This article provides a review of single-molecule studies focused on measurements of anisotropic diffusion, adsorption, partitioning, and confinement in nanostructured materials. Experimental methods covered include confocal and wide-field fluorescence microscopy. The results obtained promise to deepen our understanding of mass transport mechanisms in nanostructures, thus aiding in the realization of advanced materials systems.
Supramolecular chirality in self-assembled soft materials: regulation of chiral nanostructures and chiral functions.
Zhang, Li; Qin, Long; Wang, Xiufeng; Cao, Hai; Liu, Minghua
Supramolecular chirality, which arises from the nonsymmetric spatial arrangement of components in the self-assembly systems, has gained great attention owing to its relation to the natural biological structures and the possible new functions in advanced materials. During the self-assembling process, both chiral and achiral components are possible to form chiral nanostructures. Therefore, it becomes an important issue how to fabricate these molecular components into chiral nanostructures. Furthermore, once the chiral nanostructure is obtained, will it show new functions that simple component molecule could not? In this research news, we report our recent development in the regulation of chiral nanostructures in soft gels or vesicle materials. We have further developed several new functions pertaining to the soft gel materials, which single chiral molecules could not perform, such as the chiroptical switch, chiral recognition and the asymmetry catalysis.
Femtosecond laser-induced periodic nanostructure creation on PET surface for controlling of cell spreading
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sato, Yuji; Tsukamoto, Masahiro; Shinonaga, Togo; Kawa, Takuya
A new method of periodic nanostructure formation on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) surface has been developed, employing a femtosecond laser with a wavelength of 1045 nm. To generate structured films, the PET was placed in contact with a silicon (Si) wafer, followed by irradiation with the laser focused on the Si wafer, passing through the PET film. In order to evaluate the surface morphology, atomic force microscopy analysis was conducted on both treated and untreated PET surfaces. From the results, nanostructures with a period of 600 nm and height of 100 nm were formed on the PET film surface by laser treatment. A cell cultivation test was carried out on PET films with and without periodic nanostructures, showing that for nanostructured films, the cells (MG-63) were spread along the periodic grooves; in contrast, random cell spreading was observed for cultures grown on the untreated PET film.
Single-Molecule Investigations of Morphology and Mass Transport Dynamics in Nanostructured Materials.
Higgins, Daniel A; Park, Seok Chan; Tran-Ba, Khanh-Hoa; Ito, Takashi
Nanostructured materials such as mesoporous metal oxides and phase-separated block copolymers form the basis for new monolith, membrane, and thin film technologies having applications in energy storage, chemical catalysis, and separations. Mass transport plays an integral role in governing the application-specific performance characteristics of many such materials. The majority of methods employed in their characterization provide only ensemble data, often masking the nanoscale, molecular-level details of materials morphology and mass transport. Single-molecule fluorescence methods offer direct routes to probing these characteristics on a single-molecule/single-nanostructure basis. This article provides a review of single-molecule studies focused on measurements of anisotropic diffusion, adsorption, partitioning, and confinement in nanostructured materials. Experimental methods covered include confocal and wide-field fluorescence microscopy. The results obtained promise to deepen our understanding of mass transport mechanisms in nanostructures, thus aiding in the realization of advanced materials systems.
Nanostructures and Lithium Electrochemical Reactivity of Lithium Titanites and Titanium Oxides: A Review
Yang, Zhenguo; Choi, Daiwon; Kerisit, Sebastien N.; Rosso, Kevin M.; Wang, Donghai; Zhang, Jiguang; Graff, Gordon L.; Liu, J.
Being inherently safe and chemically compatible with the electrolyte, titanium oxidebased materials, including both Li-titanites and various TiO2-polymorphs, are considered alternatives to carbonaceous anodes in Li-ion batteries. Given the commercial success of the spinel lithium titanites, TiO2-polymorphs, in particular in nanostructured forms, have been fabricated and investigated for the applications. Nanostructuring leads to increased reaction areas, shortened Li+ diffusion and potentially enhanced solubility/capacity. Integration with an electron conductive second phase into the TiO2-based nanostructures eases the electron transport, resulting in further improved lithium electrochemical activity and the overall electrochemical performance. This paper reviews structural characteristics and Li-electrochemical reactivity, along with synthetic approaches, of nanostructures and nano-composites based on lithium titanites and TiO2-polymorphs that include rutile, anatase, bronze and brookite.
Theory for self-consistent interplay between light and nanomaterials strongly modified by metallic nanostructures.
Ishikawa, Akira; Osono, Katsuya; Nobuhiro, Atsushi; Mizumoto, Yoshihiko; Torimoto, Tsukasa; Ishihara, Hajime
The design of the interplay between light and nanomaterials by the effect of localized-surface-plasmon resonance in metallic nanostructures is a fascinating subject, and recently, a lot of research has been carried out from both fundamental and applicational points of view. In this paper, we demonstrate the theories for describing the self-consistent interplay between the electronic states in the nanomaterials, the localized surface plasmons in the metallic nanostructures, and the light field, which provides insight into how the photoexcitation processes are modified through microscopic energy exchanges. As examples of such demonstrations, we show two cases, i.e., the interaction between a single metallic nanosphere and a quantum dot, and that between metallic nanostructures forming a nanogap and dimer molecules, where a peculiar dependence of photoexcitation processes on the distance between the metallic nanostructure and the absorbers arises depending on the respective characteristics of their interplay.
Self-assembly strategies for the synthesis of functional nanostructured materials
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Perego, M.; Seguini, G.
Self-assembly is the autonomous organization of components into patterns or structures without human intervention. This is the approach followed by nature to generate living cells and represents one of the practical strategies to fabricate ensembles of nanostructures. In static self-assembly the formation of ordered structures could require energy but once formed the structures are stable. The introduction of additional regular features in the environment could be used to template the self-assembly guiding the organization of the components and determining the final structure they form. In this regard self-assembly of block copolymers represents a potent platform for fundamental studies at the nanoscale and for application-driven investigation as a tool to fabricate functional nanostructured materials. Block copolymers can hierarchically assemble into chemically distinct domains with size and periodicity on the order of 10nm or below, offering a potentially inexpensive route to generate large-area nanostructured materials. The final structure characteristics of these materials are dictated by the properties of the elementary block copolymers, like chain length, volume fraction or degree of block incompatibility. Modern synthetic chemistry offers the possibility to design these macromolecules with very specific length scales and geometries, directly embodying in the block copolymers the code that drives their self- assembling process. The understanding of the kinetics and thermodynamics of the block copolymer self-assembly process in the bulk phase as well as in thin films represents a fundamental prerequisite toward the exploitation of these materials. Incorporating block copolymer into device fabrication procedures or directly into devices, as active elements, will lead to the development of a new generation of devices fabricated using the fundamental law of nature to our advantage in order to minimize cost and power consumption in the fabrication process
Fabrication and characterization of nanostructured titanate materials by the hydrothermal treatment method.
Doong, Ruey-an; Kao, I-ling
The synthesis and characterization of one-dimensional (1-D) tubular and fibrous nanostructured materials have recently received highly attention. Various morphologies of 1-D nanostructured titanate materials including nanosheets, nanotubes, nanowires, and nanoribbons have recently been successfully synthesized using the alkaline hydrothermal method. In spite of the controversy of the chemical structures and formation mechanisms, titanate nanostructures have attracted much attention on applications of dye-sensitized solar cell, hydrogen sensing, lithium storage and photocatalysis because of their unique features of high specific surface area, ion-exchange capacity and aspect ratio, and unique optical and electrochemical properties. The morphology and microstructure of titanate nanostructures are highly dependent on the preparation conditions. In this review, we highlight the synthesis of TiO(2)-derived nanomaterials under various hydrothermal conditions. The patents for fabrication of various morphologies of nanostructures are also introduced. Effects of preparation parameters including hydrothermal temperature, duration, alkaline concentration, starting materials, and post-treatment on the morphology and microstructure of titanate nanomaterials are reviewered. In addition, the microwave-assisted method for fabrication of 1-D titanate nanostructures is discussed and compared. The applications of titanate nanomaterials in photocatalysis, ion-exchange, and lithium storages are also introduced.
On the design and fabrication of nanostructures and devices
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wei, Wei
Nanotechnology is emerging into a new frontier in science and technology with potential impact on every aspect of human life. One of the major breakthroughs in today's nanotechnology is the discovery and preparation of new classes of nanomaterials and nanostructures. A large number of nanomaterials and nanostructures are synthesized and characterized with either new or profoundly enhanced properties or phenomena. However, there are several major challenges ahead need to be overcome before any substantial benefits can be brought to the market. One of the challenges that we need to address today is how to effectively integrate useful nanomaterials and nanostrucrures into functional devices and systems. Our mother nature gives us a classic example of how living organisms are built. Starting from a single cell, through its division and growth, it can self-assemble and become functional tissues and organs. Similar self-assemble approach has been adopted as a nano-fabrication technique to assemble nanomaterials and nanostructures into functional nanodevices. This technique has advantages of high precision and nanometer scale resolution. However, it requires a lot of effort to construct a single device and since the properties of individual nanostructures can be different, the fabricated devices may have different properties. In this dissertation, we design and fabricate nanostructures and devices using novel microfabrication techniques. In the first part of the dissertation, the design and fabrication of a variety of nanostructures, such as metal nanowires array, polymer nanowells, and nanostructured surfaces are discussed. In the second part, carbon nanotubes as a novel material has been explored as an example to demonstrate the integration of nanomaterials with novel microfabrication techniques to form a functional device. First, a resistive heating technique is developed to grow carbon nanotubes in localized regions, such as a nichrome heating coil. Then, MEMS micro
Nanolayered Features of Collagen-like Peptides
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Valluzzi, Regina; Bini, Elisabetta; Haas, Terry; Cebe, Peggy; Kaplan, David L.
We have been investigating collagen-like model oligopeptides as molecular bases for complex ordered biomimetic materials. The collagen-like molecules incorporate aspects of native collagen sequence and secondary structure. Designed modifications to native primary and secondary structure have been incorporated to control the nanostructure and microstructure of the collagen-like materials produced. We find that the collagen-like molecules form a number of lyotropic rod liquid crystalline phases, which because of their strong temperature dependence in the liquid state can also be viewed as solvent intercalated thermotropic liquid crystals. The liquid crystalline phases formed by the molecules can be captured in the solid state by drying off solvent, resulting in solid nanopatterned (chemically and physically) thermally stable (to greater than 100 C) materials. Designed sequences which stabilize smectic phases have allowed a variety of nanoscale multilayered biopolymeric materials to be developed. Preliminary investigations suggest that chemical patterns running perpendicular to the smectic layer plane can be functionalized and used to localize a variety of organic, inorganic, and organometallic moieties in very simple multilayered nanocomposites. The phase behavior of collagen-like oligopeptide materials is described, emphasizing the correlation between mesophase, molecular orientation, and chemical patterning at the microscale and nanoscale. In many cases, the textures observed for smectic and hexatic phase collagens are remarkably similar to the complex (and not fully understood) helicoids observed in biological collagen-based tissues. Comparisons between biological morphologies and collagen model liquid crystalline (and solidified materials) textures may help us understand the molecular features which impart order and function to the extracellular matrix and to collagen-based mineralized tissues. Initial studies have utilized synthetic collagen-like peptides while
3D and 2D structural characterization of 1D Al/Al2 O3 biphasic nanostructures.
Miró, M Martinez; Veith, M; Lee, J; Soldera, F; Mücklich, F; Bennewitz, R; Aktas, C
1D Al/Al2 O3 nanostructures have been synthesized by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) of the molecular precursor [(t) BuOAlH2 ]2 . The deposited nanostructures grow chaotically on the substrate forming a layer with a high porosity (80%). Depending on the deposition time, diverse nanostructured surfaces with different distribution densities were achieved. A three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction has been evaluated for every nanostructure density using the Focus Ion Beam (FIB) tomography technique and reconstruction software tools. Several structural parameters such as porosity, Euler number, geometrical tortuosity and aspect ratio have been quantified through the analysis with specified software of the reconstructions. Additionally roughness of the prepared surfaces has been characterized at micro- and nanoscale using profilometry and AFM techniques, respectively. While high aspects ratio around 20-30 indicates a strong anisotropy in the structure, high porosity values (around 80%) is observed as a consequence of highly tangled geometry of such 1D nanostructures.
Ascorbate-assisted growth of hierarchical ZnO nanostructures: sphere, spindle, and flower and their catalytic properties.
Raula, Manoj; Rashid, Md Harunar; Paira, Tapas K; Dinda, Enakshi; Mandal, Tarun K
A simple solution-based method to prepare mainly flowerlike zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures using the ascorbate ion as a shape-directing/capping agent at relatively low temperature (ca. 30 and 60 degrees C) was described. However, we observed that different shapes of hierarchical ZnO nanostructures such as flowerlike, spindlelike, and spherical could be obtained with an increase in the synthesis temperature from 60 to 90 degrees C. The effects of other organic capping agents on the shape of hierarchical ZnO nanostructures were also studied. FTIR, FESEM, and XRD characterization were performed on the formed ZnO nanostructures to understand the role of ascorbate in the growth of flowerlike morphology. The nucleation and growth process can regulate by changing the metal precursor and ascorbate ion concentrations. We were able to identify intermediate nanostructures such as spherical/quasi-spherical and spindle that are very much on the pathway of formation of large, flowerlike ZnO nanostructures. Electron microscopy results indicated that these spherical/quasi-spherical ZnO nanoparticles might aggregate through oriented attachment to produce spindlelike and flowerlike nanostructures. On the basis of these results, a possible growth mechanism for the formation of flowerlike ZnO nanostructures was described. The optical properties of these differently shaped ZnO nanostructures were also described. The catalytic activities of the as-synthesized spherical and flowerlike ZnO nanostructures were tested in the Friedel-Crafts acylation reaction of anthracene with benzoyl chloride. The catalysis results indicated that the catalytic activity of flowerlike ZnO nanostructures is slightly higher than the spherical counterpart.
Chemical Sensors Based on Metal Oxide Nanostructures
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hunter, Gary W.; Xu, Jennifer C.; Evans, Laura J.; VanderWal, Randy L.; Berger, Gordon M.; Kulis, Mike J.; Liu, Chung-Chiun
This paper is an overview of sensor development based on metal oxide nanostructures. While nanostructures such as nanorods show significan t potential as enabling materials for chemical sensors, a number of s ignificant technical challenges remain. The major issues addressed in this work revolve around the ability to make workable sensors. This paper discusses efforts to address three technical barriers related t o the application of nanostructures into sensor systems: 1) Improving contact of the nanostructured materials with electrodes in a microse nsor structure; 2) Controling nanostructure crystallinity to allow co ntrol of the detection mechanism; and 3) Widening the range of gases that can be detected by using different nanostructured materials. It is concluded that while this work demonstrates useful tools for furt her development, these are just the beginning steps towards realizati on of repeatable, controlled sensor systems using oxide based nanostr uctures.
Raman Studies of Carbon Nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jorio, Ado; Souza Filho, Antonio G.
This article reviews recent advances on the use of Raman spectroscopy to study and characterize carbon nanostructures. It starts with a brief survey of Raman spectroscopy of graphene and carbon nanotubes, followed by recent developments in the field. Various novel topics, including Stokes-anti-Stokes correlation, tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy in two dimensions, phonon coherence, and high-pressure and shielding effects, are presented. Some consequences for other fields—quantum optics, near-field electromagnetism, archeology, materials and soil sciences—are discussed. The review ends with a discussion of new perspectives on Raman spectroscopy of carbon nanostructures, including how this technique can contribute to the development of biotechnological applications and nanotoxicology.
Nanorice: a new hybrid nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nordlander, P.; Brandl, D.; Le, F.; Wang, H.; Halas, N. J.
The plasmon hybridization method [1] is applied to nanorice, a new metallic nanostructure which combines the properties of two popular tunable plasmonic nanoparticle geometries: nanorods and nanoshells. The particle consists of a prolate spheroidal dielectric core and a thin metallic shell, bearing a remarkable resemblance to a rice grain. The nanorice particle shows far greater geometric tunability of the optical resonance, larger local field intensity enhancements and far greater sensitivity as a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) nanosensor than any previously reported dielectric-metal nanostructure. The tunability of the nanorice particle arises from the interaction of primitive plasmons associated with the inner and outer surfaces of the shell. The results from plasmon hybridization are compared to FDTD simulations. [1] E. Prodan and P. Nordlander, J. Chem. Phys. 120(2004)5444-5454
Nanostructured materials for thermoelectric applications.
Bux, Sabah K; Fleurial, Jean-Pierre; Kaner, Richard B
Recent studies indicate that nanostructuring can be an effective method for increasing the dimensionless thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) in materials. Most of the enhancement in ZT can be attributed to large reductions in the lattice thermal conductivity due to increased phonon scattering at interfaces. Although significant gains have been reported, much higher ZTs in practical, cost-effective and environmentally benign materials are needed in order for thermoelectrics to become effective for large-scale, wide-spread power and thermal management applications. This review discusses the various synthetic techniques that can be used in the production of bulk scale nanostructured materials. The advantages and disadvantages of each synthetic method are evaluated along with guidelines and goals presented for an ideal thermoelectric material. With proper optimization, some of these techniques hold promise for producing high efficiency devices.
Nanostructured Biomaterials and Their Applications
Parratt, Kirsten; Yao, Nan
Some of the most important advances in the life sciences have come from transitioning to thinking of materials and their properties on the nanoscale rather than the macro or even microscale. Improvements in imaging technology have allowed us to see nanofeatures that directly impact chemical and mechanical properties of natural and man-made materials. Now that these can be imaged and quantified, substantial advances have been made in the fields of biomimetics, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. For the first time, scientists can determine the importance of nanograins and nanoasperities in nacre, direct the nucleation of apatite and the growth of cells on nanostructured scaffolds, and pass drugs tethered to nanoparticles through the blood-brain barrier. This review examines some of the most interesting materials whose nanostructure and hierarchical organization have been shown to correlate directly with favorable properties and their resulting applications.
Dispersive interactions in graphitic nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Woods, L. M.; Popescu, A.; Drosdoff, D.; Bondarev, I. V.
The Casimir interaction between graphitic nanostructures, such as carbon nanotubes and graphene sheets, is investigated at the quantum mechanical limit (T = 0 K) using a quantum electrodynamical approach for absorbing and dispersive media. It is found that the nanotube/nanotube interaction in a double wall carbon nanotube configuration is profoundly affected by the collective low frequency excitations of individual nanotubes. It is shown that pronounced, low frequency peaks in the nanotube electron energy loss spectra are a main factor contributing to the strength of the intertube attraction. The graphene/graphene force is also investigated. It is obtained that the graphene optical transparency is the main reason for the reduced attraction as compared to the one for perfect metals. This study presents a unified approach for electromagnetic interactions in graphitic nanostructures, which is able to account for their unique electronic and response properties and geometry configurations.
Increased endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell adhesion on nanostructured titanium and CoCrMo
Choudhary, Saba; Berhe, Mikal; Haberstroh, Karen M; Webster, Thomas J
In the body, vascular cells continuously interact with tissues that possess nanostructured surface features due to the presence of proteins (such as collagen and elastin) embedded in the vascular wall. Despite this fact, vascular stents intended to restore blood flow do not have nanoscale surface features but rather are smooth at the nanoscale. As the first step towards creating the next generation of vascular stent materials, the objective of this in vitro study was to investigate vascular cell (specifically, endothelial, and vascular smooth muscle cell) adhesion on nanostructured compared with conventional commercially pure (cp) Ti and CoCrMo. Nanostructured cp Ti and CoCrMo compacts were created by separately utilizing either constituent cp Ti or CoCrMo nanoparticles as opposed to conventional micronsized particles. Results of this study showed for the first time increased endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell adhesion on nanostructured compared with conventional cp Ti and CoCrMo after 4 hours' adhesion. Moreover, compared with their respective conventional counterparts, the ratio of endothelial to vascular smooth muscle cells increased on nanostructured cp Ti and CoCrMo. In addition, endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells had a better spread morphology on the nanostructured metals compared with conventional metals. Overall, vascular cell adhesion was better on CoCrMo than on cp Ti. Results of surface characterization studies demonstrated similar chemistry but significantly greater root-mean-square (rms) surface roughness as measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM) for nanostructured compared with respective conventional metals. For these reasons, results from the present in vitro study provided evidence that vascular stents composed of nanometer compared with micron-sized metal particles (specifically, either cp Ti or CoCrMo) may invoke cellular responses promising for improved vascular stent applications. PMID:17722261
Thermoelectric effects in graphene nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dollfus, Philippe; Nguyen, Viet Hung; Saint-Martin, Jérôme
The thermoelectric properties of graphene and graphene nanostructures have recently attracted significant attention from the physics and engineering communities. In fundamental physics, the analysis of Seebeck and Nernst effects is very useful in elucidating some details of the electronic band structure of graphene that cannot be probed by conductance measurements alone, due in particular to the ambipolar nature of this gapless material. For applications in thermoelectric energy conversion, graphene has two major disadvantages. It is gapless, which leads to a small Seebeck coefficient due to the opposite contributions of electrons and holes, and it is an excellent thermal conductor. The thermoelectric figure of merit ZT of a two-dimensional (2D) graphene sheet is thus very limited. However, many works have demonstrated recently that appropriate nanostructuring and bandgap engineering of graphene can concomitantly strongly reduce the lattice thermal conductance and enhance the Seebeck coefficient without dramatically degrading the electronic conductance. Hence, in various graphene nanostructures, ZT has been predicted to be high enough to make them attractive for energy conversion. In this article, we review the main results obtained experimentally and theoretically on the thermoelectric properties of graphene and its nanostructures, emphasizing the physical effects that govern these properties. Beyond pure graphene structures, we discuss also the thermoelectric properties of some hybrid graphene structures, as graphane, layered carbon allotropes such as graphynes and graphdiynes, and graphene/hexagonal boron nitride heterostructures which offer new opportunities. Finally, we briefly review the recent activities on other atomically thin 2D semiconductors with finite bandgap, i.e. dichalcogenides and phosphorene, which have attracted great attention for various kinds of applications, including thermoelectrics.
Synthesis of hierarchical three-dimensional copper oxide nanostructures through a biomineralization-inspired approach
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fei, Xiang; Shao, Zhengzhong; Chen, Xin
Three-dimensional (3D) copper oxide (CuO) nanostructures were synthesized in a regenerated Bombyx mori silk fibroin aqueous solution at room temperature. In the synthesis process, silk fibroin served as the template and helped to form the hierarchical CuO nanostructures by self-assembly. Cu(OH)2 nanowires were formed initially, and then they transformed into almond-like CuO nanostructures with branched edges and a compact middle. The size of the final CuO nanostructures can be tuned by varying the concentration of silk fibroin in the reaction system. A possible mechanism has been proposed based on various characterization techniques, such as scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. The synthesized CuO nanostructured material has been evaluated as an anode material for lithium ion batteries, and the result showed that they had a good electrochemical performance. The straightforward energy-saving method developed in this research may provide a useful preparation strategy for other functional inorganic materials through an environmentally friendly process.Three-dimensional (3D) copper oxide (CuO) nanostructures were synthesized in a regenerated Bombyx mori silk fibroin aqueous solution at room temperature. In the synthesis process, silk fibroin served as the template and helped to form the hierarchical CuO nanostructures by self-assembly. Cu(OH)2 nanowires were formed initially, and then they transformed into almond-like CuO nanostructures with branched edges and a compact middle. The size of the final CuO nanostructures can be tuned by varying the concentration of silk fibroin in the reaction system. A possible mechanism has been proposed based on various characterization techniques, such as scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. The synthesized CuO nanostructured material has been evaluated as an anode material for lithium ion batteries, and the result
Dielectric nanostructures with high laser damage threshold
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ngo, C. Y.; Hong, L. Y.; Deng, J.; Khoo, E. H.; Liu, Z.; Wu, R. F.; Teng, J. H.
Dielectric-based metamaterials are proposed to be the ideal candidates for low-loss, high-efficiency devices. However, to employ dielectric nanostructures for high-power applications, the dielectric material must have a high laser-induced damaged threshold (LIDT) value. In this work, we investigated the LIDT values of dielectric nanostructures for high-power fiber laser applications. Consequently, we found that the fabricated SiO2 nanostructured lens can withstand laser fluence exceeding 100 J/cm2.
Nanostructured conducting polymers and their biomedical applications.
Wang, G W; Lu, Y N; Wang, L P; Wang, H J; Wang, J Y
Much attention has been paid to nanostructured conducting polymers due to their unique properties, which arise from their nanoscale size, such as their large surface area, high electrical conductivity, electrochemical stability and quantum effects. This article reviews three methods to synthesize nanostructured conducting polymers and their applications in the biomedical field, focusing specifically on neural probes, biosensors, artificial muscles or actuators and controlled drug release. Challenges and future directions of these nanostructured conducting polymer are also discussed.
Molecular dynamics simulations of nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yuan, Zaoshi
This dissertation is focused on multimillion-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of nanoscale materials. In the past decade, nanoscale materials have made significant commercial impacts, which will potentially lead to the next industrial revolution. The interest lies in the novel and promising features nanoscale materials exhibit due to their confined sizes. However, not all novel behaviors are understood or controllable. Many uncontrollable parameters, e.g. defects and dangling bonds, are known to hinder the performance of nanodevices. Solutions to these problems rely on our understanding of fundamental elements in nanoscience: isolated individual nanostructures and their assemblies. In this dissertation, we will address atomistic foundations of several problems of technological importance in nanoscience. Specifically, three basic problems are discussed: (1) embrittlement of nanocrystalline metal; (2) novel thermo-mechanical behaviors of nanowires (NWs); and (3) planar defect generation in NWs. With a scalable algorithm implemented on massively parallel computing platforms and various data mining methods, MD simulations can provide valuable insights into these problems. An essential role of sulfur segregation-induced amorphization of crystalline nickel was recently discovered experimentally, but the atomistic mechanism of the amorphization remains unexplained. Our MD simulations reveal that the large steric size of sulfur impurity causes strong sulfur-sulfur interaction mediated by lattice distortion, which leads to amorphization near the percolation threshold at the sulfur-sulfur network in nickel crystal. The generality of the mechanism due to the percolation of an impurity network is further confirmed by a model binary system. In our study of novel behaviors of semiconductor NWs, MD simulations construct a rich size-temperature `phase diagram' for the mechanical response of a zinc-oxide NW under tension. For smaller diameters and higher temperatures, novel
Alteration of architecture of MoO₃ nanostructures on arbitrary substrates: growth kinetics, spectroscopic and gas sensing properties.
Illyaskutty, Navas; Sreedhar, Sreeja; Sanal Kumar, G; Kohler, Heinz; Schwotzer, Matthias; Natzeck, Carsten; Pillai, V P Mahadevan
MoO3 nanostructures have been grown in thin film form on five different substrates by RF magnetron sputtering and subsequent annealing; non-aligned nanorods, aligned nanorods, bundled nanowires, vertical nanorods and nanoslabs are formed respectively on the glass, quartz, wafer, alumina and sapphire substrates. The nanostructures formed on these substrates are characterized by AFM, SEM, GIXRD, XPS, micro-Raman, diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence spectroscopy. A detailed growth model for morphology alteration with respect to substrates has been discussed by considering various aspects such as surface roughness, lattice parameters and the thermal expansion coefficient, of both substrates and MoO3. The present study developed a strategy for the choice of substrates to materialize different types MoO3 nanostructures for future thin film applications. The gas sensing tests point towards using these MoO3 nanostructures as principal detection elements in gas sensors.
Mechanically interlocked DNA nanostructures for functional devices.
Jester, Stefan-S; Famulok, Michael
CONSPECTUS: Self-assembled functional DNA oligonucleotide based architectures represent highly promising candidates for the creation of nanoscale devices. The field of DNA nanotechnology has emerged to a high level of maturity and currently constitutes one of the most dynamic, creative, and exciting modern research areas. The transformation from structural DNA nanotechnology to functional DNA architectures is already taking place with tremendous pace. Particularly the advent of DNA origami technology has propelled DNA nanotechnology forward. DNA origami provided a versatile method for precisely aligning structural and functional DNA modules in two and three dimensions, thereby serving as a means for constructing scaffolds and chassis required for the precise orchestration of multiple functional DNA architectures. Key modules of these will contain interlocked nanomechanical components made of DNA. The mechanical interlocking allows for performing highly specific and controlled motion, by reducing the dimensionality of diffusion-controlled processes without restrictions in motional flexibility. Examples for nanoscale interlocked DNA architectures illustrate how elementary functional units of future nanomachines can be designed and realized, and show what role interlocked DNA architectures may play in this endeavor. Functional supramolecular systems, in general, and nanomachinery, in particular, self-organize into architectures that reflect different levels of complexity with respect to their function, their arrangement in the second and third dimension, their suitability for different purposes, and their functional interplay. Toward this goal, DNA nanotechnology and especially the DNA origami technology provide opportunities for nanomechanics, nanorobotics, and nanomachines. In this Account, we address approaches that apply to the construction of interlocked DNA nanostructures, drawing largely form our own contributions to interlocked architectures based on double
Quantification of cellular uptake of DNA nanostructures by qPCR.
Okholm, Anders Hauge; Nielsen, Jesper Sejrup; Vinther, Mathias; Sørensen, Rasmus Schøler; Schaffert, David; Kjems, Jørgen
DNA nanostructures facilitating drug delivery are likely soon to be realized. In the past few decades programmed self-assembly of DNA building blocks have successfully been employed to construct sophisticated nanoscale objects. By conjugating functionalities to DNA, other molecules such as peptides, proteins and polymers can be precisely positioned on DNA nanostructures. This exceptional ability to produce modular nanoscale devices with tunable and controlled behavior has initiated an interest in employing DNA nanostructures for drug delivery. However, to obtain this the relationship between cellular interactions and structural and functional features of the DNA delivery device must be thoroughly investigated. Here, we present a rapid and robust method for the precise quantification of the component materials of DNA origami structures capable of entering cells in vitro. The quantification is performed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, allowing a linear dynamic range of detection of five orders of magnitude. We demonstrate the use of this method for high-throughput screening, which could prove efficient to identify key features of DNA nanostructures enabling cell penetration. The method described here is suitable for quantification of in vitro uptake studies but should easily be extended to quantify DNA nanostructures in blood or tissue samples.
Photoinduced magnetic force between nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Guclu, Caner; Tamma, Venkata Ananth; Wickramasinghe, Hemantha Kumar; Capolino, Filippo
Photoinduced magnetic force between nanostructures, at optical frequencies, is investigated theoretically. Till now optical magnetic effects were not used in scanning probe microscopy because of the vanishing natural magnetism with increasing frequency. On the other hand, artificial magnetism in engineered nanostructures led to the development of measurable optical magnetism. Here two examples of nanoprobes that are able to generate strong magnetic dipolar fields at optical frequency are investigated: first, an ideal magnetically polarizable nanosphere and then a circular cluster of silver nanospheres that has a looplike collective plasmonic resonance equivalent to a magnetic dipole. Magnetic forces are evaluated based on nanostructure polarizabilities, i.e., induced magnetic dipoles, and magnetic-near field evaluations. As an initial assessment on the possibility of a magnetic nanoprobe to detect magnetic forces, we consider two identical magnetically polarizable nanoprobes and observe magnetic forces on the order of piconewtons, thereby bringing it within detection limits of conventional atomic force microscopes at ambient pressure and temperature. The detection of magnetic force is a promising method in studying optical magnetic transitions that can be the basis of innovative spectroscopy applications.
Physical electrochemistry of nanostructured devices.
Bisquert, Juan
This Perspective reviews recent developments in experimental techniques and conceptual methods applied to the electrochemical properties of metal-oxide semiconductor nanostructures and organic conductors, such as those used in dye-sensitized solar cells, high-energy batteries, sensors, and electrochromic devices. The aim is to provide a broad view of the interpretation of electrochemical and optoelectrical measurements for semiconductor nanostructures (sintered colloidal particles, nanorods, arrays of quantum dots, etc.) deposited or grown on a conducting substrate. The Fermi level displacement by potentiostatic control causes a broad change of physical properties such as the hopping conductivity, that can be investigated over a very large variation of electron density. In contrast to traditional electrochemistry, we emphasize that in nanostructured devices we must deal with systems that depart heavily from the ideal, Maxwell-Boltzmann statistics, due to broad distributions of states (energy disorder) and interactions of charge carriers, therefore the electrochemical analysis must be aided by thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. We discuss in detail the most characteristic densities of states, the chemical capacitance, and the transport properties, specially the chemical diffusion coefficient, mobility, and generalized Einstein relation.
Harmonizing HeLa cell cytoskeleton behavior by multi-Ti oxide phased nanostructure synthesized through ultrashort pulsed laser
Chinnakkannu Vijayakumar, Chandramouli; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan; Tan, Bo
Knowledge about cancer cell behavior on heterogeneous nanostructures is relevant for developing a distinct biomaterial that can actuate cancer cells. In this manuscript, we have demonstrated a harmonized approach of forming multi Ti-oxide phases in a nanostructure (MTOP nanostructure) for its unique cancer cell controlling behavior.Conventionally, single phases of TiO2 are used for targeted therapy and as drug carrier systems.In this research, we have shown a biomaterial that can control HeLa cells diligently using a combination of TiO, Ti3O and TiO2 phases when compared to fibroblast (NIH3T3) cells.MTOP-nanostructures are generated by varying the ionization energy in the vapor plume of the ultrashort pulse laser; this interaction with the material allows accurate tuning and composition of phases within the nanostructure. In addition, the lattice spacing of MTOP-nanostructures was analyzed as shown by HR-TEM investigations. An FESEM investigation of MTOP-nanostructures revealed a greater reduction of HeLa cells relative to fibroblast cells. Altered cell adhesion was followed by modulation of HeLa cell architecture with a significant reduction of actin stress fibers.The intricate combination of MTOP-nanostructures renders a biomaterial that can precisely alter HeLa cell but not fibroblast cell behavior, filling a void in the research for a biomaterial to modulate cancer cell behavior. PMID:26469886
Harmonizing HeLa cell cytoskeleton behavior by multi-Ti oxide phased nanostructure synthesized through ultrashort pulsed laser.
Chinnakkannu Vijayakumar, Chandramouli; Venkatakrishnan, Krishnan; Tan, Bo
Knowledge about cancer cell behavior on heterogeneous nanostructures is relevant for developing a distinct biomaterial that can actuate cancer cells. In this manuscript, we have demonstrated a harmonized approach of forming multi Ti-oxide phases in a nanostructure (MTOP nanostructure) for its unique cancer cell controlling behavior.Conventionally, single phases of TiO2 are used for targeted therapy and as drug carrier systems.In this research, we have shown a biomaterial that can control HeLa cells diligently using a combination of TiO, Ti3O and TiO2 phases when compared to fibroblast (NIH3T3) cells.MTOP-nanostructures are generated by varying the ionization energy in the vapor plume of the ultrashort pulse laser; this interaction with the material allows accurate tuning and composition of phases within the nanostructure. In addition, the lattice spacing of MTOP-nanostructures was analyzed as shown by HR-TEM investigations. An FESEM investigation of MTOP-nanostructures revealed a greater reduction of HeLa cells relative to fibroblast cells. Altered cell adhesion was followed by modulation of HeLa cell architecture with a significant reduction of actin stress fibers.The intricate combination of MTOP-nanostructures renders a biomaterial that can precisely alter HeLa cell but not fibroblast cell behavior, filling a void in the research for a biomaterial to modulate cancer cell behavior.
Wallace, R.E.
The San Andreas fault system, a complex of faults that display predominantly large-scale strike slip, is part of an even more complex system of faults, isolated segments of the East Pacific Rise, and scraps of plates lying east of the East Pacific Rise that collectively separate the North American plate from the Pacific plate. This chapter briefly describes the San Andreas fault system, its setting along the Pacific Ocean margin of North America, its extent, and the patterns of faulting. Only selected characteristics are described, and many features are left for depictions on maps and figures.
Extensive mixing features at 27-41 Ka postcaldera trachytes at Long Valley caldera, CA: Mixing/mingling of basalt with trachyte and mobilization of young granitic material to form kspar megacrysts
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Hagmann, I. J.; Mahood, G.
Five small lava domes erupted at the NW margin of Long Valley caldera from 41 to 27 Ka. They range from trachyte (66% SiO2) to trachyandesite (60%), with the youngest lava being the most mafic. Mixing features are pervasive, with enclaves, kspar megacrysts, crystal clots of various grain sizes, compositions, and degrees of resorption indicating multiple episodes of mafic injection, mobilization of young granitic material, and mixing/mingling of alkali basalt with trachyte to alkali rhyolite magmas similar to those at Mammoth Mountain. Enclaves range from 49 to 57% SiO2 and form a mixing line with a felsic end member at 67% SiO2. In order to quantify the distribution of enclaves and large (1-4 cm), resorbed, kspar megacrysts, outcrop-scale point counting was performed at >200 locations on the lavas. Contour maps show that kspar content is highest at the vent, but mafic-intermediate enclaves are irregularly distributed. Fe-Ti oxide temperatures for the host trachytic magmas are 915-1080°C, with the coolest temperatures at flow termini. Enclave temperatures are similar, 950-1120°C, with cooler temperatures in more felsic enclaves that are typically located near flow termini, indicating prolonged thermal and chemical interaction with the host magma. Calculated pressures are 2-4 kbar for host magmas, but some mafic crystal clots yield pressures up to 12 kbar, near the Moho at Long Valley. The kspar megacrysts match the composition of phenocrysts in late-erupted Bishop Tuff, suggesting that the megacrysts originated from solidified equivalents of magma remaining after eruption of the Bishop Tuff at 760 Ka. These data suggest a model in which alkali basalts are generated in the uppermost mantle and, through AFC, evolve into trachytes. Repeated basaltic injections keep the trachyte hot and partially melt young granites, resulting in entrainment of kspar megacrysts. The most mafic enclaves in the NW domes match the alkali basalt compositions of the most mafic enclaves in
Precise replication of antireflective nanostructures from biotemplates
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gao, Hongjun; Liu, Zhongfan; Zhang, Jin; Zhang, Guoming; Xie, Guoyong
The authors report herein a new type of nanonipple structures on the cicada's eye and the direct structural replication of the complex micro- and nanostructures for potential functional emulation. A two-step direct molding process is developed to replicate these natural micro- and nanostructures using epoxy resin with high fidelity, which demonstrates a general way of fabricating functional nanostructures by direct replication of natural biotemplates via a suitable physicochemical process. Measurements of spectral reflectance showed that this kind of replicated nanostructure has remarkable antireflective property, suggestive of its potential applications to optical devices.
Particle Lithography Enables Fabrication of Multicomponent Nanostructures
Lin, Wei-feng; Swartz, Logan A.; Li, Jie-Ren; Liu, Yang; Liu, Gang-yu
Multicomponent nanostructures with individual geometries have attracted much attention because of their potential to carry out multiple functions synergistically. The current work reports a simple method using particle lithography to fabricate multicomponent nanostructures of metals, proteins, and organosiloxane molecules, each with its own geometry. Particle lithography is well-known for its capability to produce arrays of triangular-shaped nanostructures with novel optical properties. This paper extends the capability of particle lithography by combining a particle template in conjunction with surface chemistry to produce multicomponent nanostructures. The advantages and limitations of this approach will also be addressed. PMID:24707328
Processing Nanostructured Sensors Using Microfabrication Techniques
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hunter, Gary W.; VanderWal, Randall L.; Evans, Laura J.; Xu, Jennifer C.
Standard microfabrication techniques can be implemented and scaled to help assemble nanoscale microsensors. Currently nanostructures are often deposited onto materials primarily by adding them to a solution, then applying the solution in a thin film. This results in random placement of the nanostructures with no controlled order, and no way to accurately reproduce the placement. This method changes the means by which microsensors with nanostructures are fabricated. The fundamental advantage to this approach is that it enables standard microfabrication techniques to be applied in the repeated manufacture of nanostructured sensors on a microplatform.
Is there a shift to "active nanostructures"?
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Subramanian, Vrishali; Youtie, Jan; Porter, Alan L.; Shapira, Philip
It has been suggested that an important transition in the long-run trajectory of nanotechnology development is a shift from passive to active nanostructures. Such a shift could present different or increased societal impacts and require new approaches for risk assessment. An active nanostructure "changes or evolves its state during its operation," according to the National Science Foundation's (2006) Active Nanostructures and Nanosystems grant solicitation. Active nanostructure examples include nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS), nanomachines, self-healing materials, targeted drugs and chemicals, energy storage devices, and sensors. This article considers two questions: (a) Is there a "shift" to active nanostructures? (b) How can we characterize the prototypical areas into which active nanostructures may emerge? We build upon the NSF definition of active nanostructures to develop a research publication search strategy, with a particular intent to distinguish between passive and active nanotechnologies. We perform bibliometric analyses and describe the main publication trends from 1995 to 2008. We then describe the prototypes of research that emerge based on reading the abstracts and review papers encountered in our search. Preliminary results suggest that there is a sharp rise in active nanostructures publications in 2006, and this rise is maintained in 2007 and through to early 2008. We present a typology that can be used to describe the kind of active nanostructures that may be commercialized and regulated in the future.
Synthesis of Silver Nanostructures by Multistep Methods
Zhang, Tong; Song, Yuan-Jun; Zhang, Xiao-Yang; Wu, Jing-Yuan
The shape of plasmonic nanostructures such as silver and gold is vital to their physical and chemical properties and potential applications. Recently, preparation of complex nanostructures with rich function by chemical multistep methods is the hotspot of research. In this review we introduce three typical multistep methods to prepare silver nanostructures with well-controlled shapes, including the double reductant method, etching technique and construction of core-shell nanostructures. The growth mechanism of double the reductant method is that different favorable facets of silver nanocrystals are produced in different reductants, which can be used to prepare complex nanostructures such as nanoflags with ultranarrow resonant band bandwidth or some silver nanostructures which are difficult to prepare using other methods. The etching technique can selectively remove nanoparticles to achieve the aim of shape control and is widely used for the synthesis of nanoflowers and hollow nanostructures. Construction of core-shell nanostructures is another tool to control shape and size. The three methods can not only prepare various silver nanostructures with well-controlled shapes, which exhibit unique optical properties, such as strong surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signal and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect, but also have potential application in many areas. PMID:24670722
Nanostructures having crystalline and amorphous phases
Mao, Samuel S; Chen, Xiaobo
The present invention includes a nanostructure, a method of making thereof, and a method of photocatalysis. In one embodiment, the nanostructure includes a crystalline phase and an amorphous phase in contact with the crystalline phase. Each of the crystalline and amorphous phases has at least one dimension on a nanometer scale. In another embodiment, the nanostructure includes a nanoparticle comprising a crystalline phase and an amorphous phase. The amorphous phase is in a selected amount. In another embodiment, the nanostructure includes crystalline titanium dioxide and amorphous titanium dioxide in contact with the crystalline titanium dioxide. Each of the crystalline and amorphous titanium dioxide has at least one dimension on a nanometer scale.
Self-assembling peptide amphiphile nanostructures for cancer therapy
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Soukasene, Stephen
The application of nanotechnology to cancer therapy shows great promise for reducing the burden of the disease. By virtue of their size, nanoscale objects preferentially accumulate in tumor tissue through an enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. However, to fully overcome the issues that limit current cancer treatments, viable nanostructures must also impart multifunctionality and be fully compatible with their biological surrounds. The self-assembling peptide amphiphile (PA) materials studied extensively in the Stupp Research Group form very biocompatible high aspect ratio nanostructures that meet these criteria. This thesis investigates the development of PA nanostructures designed to treat cancer. We first look to use the PA as a drug delivery vehicle by entrapping a small hydrophobic anti-cancer drug, camptothecin, in the core of the nanostructures. Using a solvent evaporation technique to load the drug into the PA nanofibers, we are able to improve the aqueous solubility of the molecule by nearly 30-fold. TEM and AFM studies show that entrapment of drug molecules does not disrupt the self-assembled morphology of the nanofiber. In vitro and in vivo studies are also conducted to demonstrate the bioactivity of the drug after its entrapment. As a potential platform for novel therapeutics, we next develop techniques for using light irradiation to trigger self-assembly inside the confined space of liposomes. We encapsulate PA monomers that assemble under acidic conditions along with a photoacid generator inside liposomes. Upon exposure to 254 nm light, the PA monomers self assemble inside the liposome to form nanostructures, which we observe through a quick freeze/deep etch technique that allows us to look inside the liposomes by SEM and TEM. Last of all, the development and discovery of epitopes for targeting PA nanostructures to tumors are explored. Using phage display technology we generate two groups of peptide sequences, one of which can potentially
Fabrication of hybrid nanostructures by liquid plasma for biomedical applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ponraj, Sri Balaji; Dai, Xiujuan Jane; Li, Luhua; Chen, Zhiqiang; Surya Narayanan, Jayanth; Kanwar, Jagat; Du Plessis, Johan
Liquid plasma, generated by a nanosecond pulsed generator at atmospheric pressure, was used to treat bamboo-like boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). It was observed that the length of the BNNTs was reduced and found more cup like structures called boron nitride nanocups (BNNCs). Interestingly, a new peak appeared at 406.86 eV in the N1s X-ray photoelectron spectrum, which seems to be attributable to the oxidation of nitrogen (N-O) in BNNTs. The C1s spectrum showed that oxygen functional groups were introduced onto the BNNT/BNNC surface. The liquid plasma was also used to assemble gold nanoparticles onto the treated BNNTs/BNNCs. This hybrid nanostructure was fabricated efficiently, compared with normal equilibrium conditions. The pH values and conductivity of all samples were measured. After plasma treatment, the pH values were greatly reduced and conductivity was significantly increased. We propose that the plasma acid, hydrogen peroxide, OH-, H ions and radicals formed in liquid plasma as well as the pulsed electric field contribute to the oxidation of nitrogen, reduced length of the BNNTs(forming BNNCs), surface functionalization, and to the fabrication of hybrid nanostructure. The cytotoxic tests for these hybrid nanostructures is underway. The authors acknowledge Rosey van Driel and Prabhukumar Sellamuthu for assisting with TEM and SEM, and the access of the XPS facility at RMIT University.
Nanostructured Surfaces for Drug Delivery and Anti-Fibrosis
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kam, Kimberly Renee
Effective and cost-efficient healthcare is at the forefront of public discussion; on both personal and policy levels, technologies that improve therapeutic efficacy without the use of painful hypodermic needle injections or the use of harsh chemicals would prove beneficial to patients. Nanostructured surfaces as structure-mediated permeability enhancers introduce a potentially revolutionary approach to the field of drug delivery. Parental administration routes have been the mainstay technologies for delivering biologics because these therapeutics are too large to permeate epithelial barriers. However, there is a significant patient dislike for hypodermic needles resulting in reduced patient compliance and poor therapeutic results. We present an alternative strategy to harness the body's naturally occurring biological processes and transport mechanisms to enhance the drug transport of biologics across the epithelium. Our strategy offers a paradigm shift from traditional biochemical drug delivery vehicles by using nanotopography to loosen the epithelial barrier. Herein, we demonstrate that nanotopographical cues can be used to enable biologics > 66 kDa to be transported across epithelial monolayers by increasing paracellular transport. When placed in contact with epithelial cells, nanostructured films significantly increase the transport of albumin, IgG, and a model therapeutic, etanercept. Our work highlights the potential to use drug delivery systems which incorporate nanotopographical cues to increase the transport of biologics across epithelial tissue. Furthermore, we describe current advancements in nano- and microfabrication for applications in anti-fibrosis and wound healing. Influencing cellular responses to biomaterials is crucial in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Since cells are surrounded by extracellular matrix features that are on the nanoscale, identifying nanostructures for imparting desirable cellular function could greatly
Designing electron wave functions in assembled nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Moon, Christopher Ryan
We use the scanning tunneling microscope to not only to map electron wave functions but also to engineer them. By assembling nanostructures from individual atoms and molecules, we confine two-dimensional electronic states into closed electron resonators, or "quantum corrals". Precise control over the geometry of these structures allows electronic states to be tailored to suit particular experiments. Specifically, we design wave functions that enable studies of normally inaccessible quantum phases. First, we create pairs of quantum corrals with shapes drawn from contemporary mathematics. Exploiting special topological relationships between these structures, we retrieve internal quantum phase of electron wave functions without using interferometry. Second, we demonstrate that adding a single atom to a quantum corral can cause its electronic states to recombine into coherent superpositions. The real-space position of the additional atom controls abstract superposition phase angles, enabling arbitrary time-independent superpositions to be created. Third, we study geometric phase by creating a series of quantum corrals that traverse a closed path through a parameter space. Tracking the corral wave functions reveals a phase shift depending solely on the path taken, directly visualizing Berry's phase evolution in a quantum system. Finally, we extend beyond closed electron resonators and engineer wave functions in open nanostructures. We show that arbitrary patterns can be encoded into electronic states, creating a new form of holography on the nanoscale. We exhibit letters written in electron density rather than with atomic matter, and show that multiple letters may be simultaneously embedded at different energies in the same region of space. Because the wavelength of the electrons diminishes as energy is increased, this technique allows local information densities that exceed the conventionally assumed limit of 1 bit per atom. Taken together, the results in this thesis
Nanostructured Oxides and Sulfides for Thermoelectrics
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Koumoto, Kunihito
Thermoelectric power generation can be applied to various heat sources, both waste heat and renewable energy, to harvest electricity. Even though each heat source is of a small scale, it would lead to a great deal of energy saving if they are combined and collected, and it would greatly contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emission. We have been engaged in developing novel thermoelectric materials to be used for energy saving and environmental protection and are currently developing nanostructured ceramics for thermoelectric conversion. We have demonstrated a quantum confinement effect giving rise to two dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in a 2D superlattice, STO/STO:Nb (STO: strontium titanate), which could generate giant thermopower while keeping high electrical conductivity. One unit-cell thick Nb-doped well layer was estimated to show ZT=2.4 at 300K. Then, a ``synergistic nanostructuring'' concept incorporating 2DEG grain boundaries as well as nanosizing of grains has been applied to our STO material and 3D superlattice ceramics was designed and proposed. It was verified by numerical simulation that this 3D superlattice ceramics should be capable of showing ZT=1.0 at 300K which is comparable to or even higher than that of conventional bismuth telluride-based thermoelectrics. We have recently proposed titanium disulfide-based misfit-layered compounds as novel TE materials. Insertion of misfit-layers into the van der Waals gaps in layer-structured titanium disulfide thus forming a natural superlattice gives rise to internal nanointerfaces and dramatically reduces its lattice thermal conductivity. ZT value reaches 0.37 at 673 K even without optimization of electronic properties. Our challenge to further increase ZT by controlling their electronic system and superlattice structures will be presented.
Inkjet Color Printing by Interference Nanostructures.
Yakovlev, Aleksandr V; Milichko, Valentin A; Vinogradov, Vladimir V; Vinogradov, Alexandr V
Color printing technology is developing rapidly; in less than 40 years, it moved from dot matrix printers with an ink-soaked cloth ribbon to 3D printers used to make three-dimensional color objects. Nevertheless, what remained unchanged over this time is the fact that in each case, dye inks (CMYK or RGB color schemes) were exclusively used for coloring, which inevitably limits the technological possibilities and color reproduction. As a next step in printing color images and storing information, we propose the technology of producing optical nanostructures. In this paper, we report use of inkjet technology to create colored interference layers with high accuracy without the need for high-temperature fixing. This was made possible due to using titania-based colloidal ink yielding monolithic coatings with a high refractive index (2.00 ± 0.08 over the entire visible range) when naturally dried. By controlling the film thickness by using inkjet deposition, we produced images based on controlled interference and implementing color printing with one ink. The lack of dyes in the proposed method has good environmental prospects, because applied systems based on a crystalline anatase sol are nontoxic and biologically inert. The paper explains in detail the principle of producing interference images by the classical inkjet method and shows the advantages of this technique in depositing coatings with uniform thickness, which are required for large-scale interference color imaging even on unprepared polymer films. This article demonstrates the possibility of inkjet printing of nanostructures with a precision in thickness of up to 50 nm, we believe that the proposed approach will be the groundwork for developing interference color printing approach and allow to implement new methods of forming optical nano-objects by widely available techniques.
Topographically Engineered Large Scale Nanostructures for Plasmonic Biosensing
Xiao, Bo; Pradhan, Sangram K.; Santiago, Kevin C.; Rutherford, Gugu N.; Pradhan, Aswini K.
We demonstrate that a nanostructured metal thin film can achieve enhanced transmission efficiency and sharp resonances and use a large-scale and high-throughput nanofabrication technique for the plasmonic structures. The fabrication technique combines the features of nanoimprint and soft lithography to topographically construct metal thin films with nanoscale patterns. Metal nanogratings developed using this method show significantly enhanced optical transmission (up to a one-order-of-magnitude enhancement) and sharp resonances with full width at half maximum (FWHM) of ~15nm in the zero-order transmission using an incoherent white light source. These nanostructures are sensitive to the surrounding environment, and the resonance can shift as the refractive index changes. We derive an analytical method using a spatial Fourier transformation to understand the enhancement phenomenon and the sensing mechanism. The use of real-time monitoring of protein-protein interactions in microfluidic cells integrated with these nanostructures is demonstrated to be effective for biosensing. The perpendicular transmission configuration and large-scale structures provide a feasible platform without sophisticated optical instrumentation to realize label-free surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing. PMID:27072067
The influence of different nanostructured scaffolds on fibroblast growth
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chung, I.-Cheng; Li, Ching-Wen; Wang, Gou-Jen
Skin serves as a protective barrier, modulating body temperature and waste discharge. It is therefore desirable to be able to repair any damage that occurs to the skin as soon as possible. In this study, we demonstrate a relatively easy and cost-effective method for the fabrication of nanostructured scaffolds, to shorten the time taken for a wound to heal. Various scaffolds consisting of nanohemisphere arrays of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polylactide and chitosan were fabricated by casting using a nickel (Ni) replica mold. The Ni replica mold is electroformed using the highly ordered nanohemisphere array of the barrier-layer surface of an anodic aluminum oxide membrane as the template. Mouse fibroblast cells (L929s) were cultured on the nanostructured polymer scaffolds to investigate the effect of these different nanohemisphere arrays on cell proliferation. The concentration of collagen type I on each scaffold was then measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to find the most effective scaffold for shortening the wound-healing process. The experimental data indicate that the proliferation of L929 is superior when a nanostructured PLGA scaffold with a feature size of 118 nm is utilized.
Cooperativity-based modeling of heterotypic DNA nanostructure assembly.
Shapiro, Anastasia; Hozeh, Avital; Girshevitz, Olga; Abu-Horowitz, Almogit; Bachelet, Ido
DNA origami is a robust method for the fabrication of nanoscale 2D and 3D objects with complex features and geometries. The process of DNA origami folding has been recently studied, however quantitative understanding of it is still elusive. Here, we describe a systematic quantification of the assembly process of DNA nanostructures, focusing on the heterotypic DNA junction-in which arms are unequal-as their basic building block. Using bulk fluorescence studies we tracked this process and identified multiple levels of cooperativity from the arms in a single junction to neighboring junctions in a large DNA origami object, demonstrating that cooperativity is a central underlying mechanism in the process of DNA nanostructure assembly. We show that the assembly of junctions in which the arms are consecutively ordered is more efficient than junctions with randomly-ordered components, with the latter showing assembly through several alternative trajectories as a potential mechanism explaining the lower efficiency. This highlights consecutiveness as a new design consideration that could be implemented in DNA nanotechnology CAD tools to produce more efficient and high-yield designs. Altogether, our experimental findings allowed us to devise a quantitative, cooperativity-based heuristic model for the assembly of DNA nanostructures, which is highly consistent with experimental observations.
Method to deterministically study photonic nanostructures in different experimental instruments.
Husken, B H; Woldering, L A; Blum, C; Vos, W L
We describe an experimental method to recover a single, deterministically fabricated nanostructure in various experimental instruments without the use of artificially fabricated markers, with the aim to study photonic structures. Therefore, a detailed map of the spatial surroundings of the nanostructure is made during the fabrication of the structure. These maps are made using a series of micrographs with successively decreasing magnifications. The graphs reveal intrinsic and characteristic geometric features that can subsequently be used in different setups to act as markers. As an illustration, we probe surface cavities with radii of 65 nm on a silica opal photonic crystal with various setups: a focused ion beam workstation; a scanning electron microscope (SEM); a wide field optical microscope and a confocal microscope. We use cross-correlation techniques to recover a small area imaged with the SEM in a large area photographed with the optical microscope, which provides a possible avenue to automatic searching. We show how both structural and optical reflectivity data can be obtained from one and the same nanostructure. Since our approach does not use artificial grids or markers, it is of particular interest for samples whose structure is not known a priori, like samples created solely by self-assembly. In addition, our method is not restricted to conducting samples.
Cooperativity-based modeling of heterotypic DNA nanostructure assembly
Shapiro, Anastasia; Hozeh, Avital; Girshevitz, Olga; Abu-Horowitz, Almogit; Bachelet, Ido
DNA origami is a robust method for the fabrication of nanoscale 2D and 3D objects with complex features and geometries. The process of DNA origami folding has been recently studied, however quantitative understanding of it is still elusive. Here, we describe a systematic quantification of the assembly process of DNA nanostructures, focusing on the heterotypic DNA junction—in which arms are unequal—as their basic building block. Using bulk fluorescence studies we tracked this process and identified multiple levels of cooperativity from the arms in a single junction to neighboring junctions in a large DNA origami object, demonstrating that cooperativity is a central underlying mechanism in the process of DNA nanostructure assembly. We show that the assembly of junctions in which the arms are consecutively ordered is more efficient than junctions with randomly-ordered components, with the latter showing assembly through several alternative trajectories as a potential mechanism explaining the lower efficiency. This highlights consecutiveness as a new design consideration that could be implemented in DNA nanotechnology CAD tools to produce more efficient and high-yield designs. Altogether, our experimental findings allowed us to devise a quantitative, cooperativity-based heuristic model for the assembly of DNA nanostructures, which is highly consistent with experimental observations. PMID:26071955
Hybrid Carbon-Based Nanostructured Platforms for the Advanced Bioreactors.
Levchenko, I; Mai-Prochnow, A; Yick, S; Bilek, M M M; Kondyurin, A; Han, Z J; Fang, J; Cvelbar, U; Mariotti, D; Ostrikov, K
Mankind faces several global challenges such as chronic and acute hunger, global poverty, energy deficiency and environment conservation. Common biotechnologies based on batch, fluidbed and other similar processes are now extensively used for the production of a wide range of products such as antibiotics, biofuels, cultured and fermented food products. Unfortunately, these processes suffer from low efficiency, high energy demand, low controllability and rapid biocatalyst degradation by microbiological attack, and thus still are not capable of seriously addressing the global hunger and energy deficiency challenges. Moreover, sustainable future technologies require minimizing the environmental impact of toxic by-products by implementing the "life produces organic matter, organic matter sustains life" principle. Nanostructure-based biotechnology is one of the most promising approaches that can help to solve these challenges. In this work we briefly review the unique features of the carbon-based nanostructured platforms, with some attention paid to other nanomaterials. We discuss the main building blocks and processes to design and fabricate novel platforms, with a focus on dense arrays of the vertically-aligned nanostructures, mainly carbon nanotubes and graphene. Advantages and disadvantages of these systems are considered.
The influence of different nanostructured scaffolds on fibroblast growth
Chung, I-Cheng; Li, Ching-Wen; Wang, Gou-Jen
Skin serves as a protective barrier, modulating body temperature and waste discharge. It is therefore desirable to be able to repair any damage that occurs to the skin as soon as possible. In this study, we demonstrate a relatively easy and cost-effective method for the fabrication of nanostructured scaffolds, to shorten the time taken for a wound to heal. Various scaffolds consisting of nanohemisphere arrays of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polylactide and chitosan were fabricated by casting using a nickel (Ni) replica mold. The Ni replica mold is electroformed using the highly ordered nanohemisphere array of the barrier-layer surface of an anodic aluminum oxide membrane as the template. Mouse fibroblast cells (L929s) were cultured on the nanostructured polymer scaffolds to investigate the effect of these different nanohemisphere arrays on cell proliferation. The concentration of collagen type I on each scaffold was then measured through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to find the most effective scaffold for shortening the wound-healing process. The experimental data indicate that the proliferation of L929 is superior when a nanostructured PLGA scaffold with a feature size of 118 nm is utilized. PMID:27877586
Nanostructured conjugated polymers in chemical sensors: synthesis, properties and applications.
Correa, D S; Medeiros, E S; Oliveira, J E; Paterno, L G; Mattoso, Luiz C
Conjugated polymers are organic materials endowed with a π-electron conjugation along the polymer backbone that present appealing electrical and optical properties for technological applications. By using conjugated polymeric materials in the nanoscale, such properties can be further enhanced. In addition, the use of nanostructured materials makes possible miniaturize devices at the micro/nano scale. The applications of conjugated nanostructured polymers include sensors, actuators, flexible displays, discrete electronic devices, and smart fabric, to name a few. In particular, the use of conjugated polymers in chemical and biological sensors is made feasible owning to their sensitivity to the physicochemical conditions of its surrounding environment, such as chemical composition, pH, dielectric constant, humidity or even temperature. Subtle changes in these conditions bring about variations on the electrical (resistivity and capacitance), optical (absorptivity, luminescence, etc.), and mechanical properties of the conjugated polymer, which can be precisely measured by different experimental methods and ultimately associated with a specific analyte and its concentration. The present review article highlights the main features of conjugated polymers that make them suitable for chemical sensors. An especial emphasis is given to nanostructured sensors systems, which present high sensitivity and selectivity, and find application in beverage and food quality control, pharmaceutical industries, medical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and homeland security, and other applications as discussed throughout this review.
Self-assembled peptide nanostructures for functional materials.
Ekiz, Melis Sardan; Cinar, Goksu; Khalily, Mohammad Aref; Guler, Mustafa O
Nature is an important inspirational source for scientists, and presents complex and elegant examples of adaptive and intelligent systems created by self-assembly. Significant effort has been devoted to understanding these sophisticated systems. The self-assembly process enables us to create supramolecular nanostructures with high order and complexity, and peptide-based self-assembling building blocks can serve as suitable platforms to construct nanostructures showing diverse features and applications. In this review, peptide-based supramolecular assemblies will be discussed in terms of their synthesis, design, characterization and application. Peptide nanostructures are categorized based on their chemical and physical properties and will be examined by rationalizing the influence of peptide design on the resulting morphology and the methods employed to characterize these high order complex systems. Moreover, the application of self-assembled peptide nanomaterials as functional materials in information technologies and environmental sciences will be reviewed by providing examples from recently published high-impact studies.
Mathematical modeling and computation of the optical response from nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sun, Yuanchang
This dissertation studies the computational modeling for nanostructures in response to external electromagnetic fields. Light-matter interactions on nanoscale are at the heart of nano-optics. To fully characterize the optical interactions with nanostructures quantum electrodynamics (QED) must be invoked, however, the required extremely intense computation and analysis prohibit QED from applications in nano-optics. To avoid the expensive computations and be able to seize the essential quantum effects a semiclassical model is developed. The wellposedness of the model partial differential equations is established. Emphasis is placed on the optical interactions with an individual nanostructure, excitons and biexcitons effects and finite-size effects are investigated. The crucial step of our model is to couple the electromagnetic fields with the motion of the excited particles to yield a new dielectric constant which contains quantum effects of interest. A novel feature of the dielectric constant is the wavevector-dependence which leads to a multi-wave propagation inside the medium. Additional boundary conditions are proposed to deal with this situation. We proceed with incorporating this dielectric constant to Maxwell's equations, and by solving a scattering problem the quantum effects can be captured in the scattered spectra.
Immobilisation of fully sulfonated polyaniline on nanostructured calcium silicate.
Borrmann, Thomas; Dominis, Anton; McFarlane, Andrew J; Johnston, James H; Richardson, Michael J; Kane-Maguire, Leon A P; Wallace, Gordon G
Up to 7.4% (w/w) of the sulfonated polyaniline, poly(2-methoxyaniline-5-sulfonic acid) (PMAS) can be absorbed onto nanostructured calcium silicates. Spectroscopic and leaching studies on the novel PMAS-silicate nanocomposites obtained indicate that attachment of the PMAS occurs via electrostatic binding of PMAS sulfonate groups to Ca2+ sites on the silicates. The surface area and pore volume of the nanocomposites are comparable to those of pure silicate and increase the surface area of the PMAS polymer by several orders of magnitude. The PMAS emeraldine salt in the nanocomposites retains its chemical reactivity, being readily oxidised and reduced to its pernigraniline and leucoemeraldine forms, respectively. The conductivity of the composite is comparable to that of the pure PMAS, several orders of magnitude higher than that of dried nanostructured calcium silicate.
Plasmonic Ag nanostructures on thin substrates for enhanced energy harvesting
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Osgood, R. M.; Giardini, S. A.; Carlson, J. B.; Gear, C.; Diest, K.; Rothschild, M.; Fernandes, G. E.; Xu, J.; Kooi, S.; Periasamy, P.; O'Hayre, R.; Parilla, P.; Berry, J.; Ginley, D.
Nanoparticles and nanostructures with plasmonic resonances are currently being employed to enhance the efficiency of solar cells. Ag stripe arrays have been shown theoretically to enhance the short-circuit current of thin silicon layers. Such Ag stripes are combined with 200 nm long and 60 nm wide "teeth", which act as nanoantennas, and form vertical rectifying metal-insulator-metal (MIM) nanostructures on metallic substrates coated with thin oxides, such as Nb/NbOx films. We characterize experimentally and theoretically the visible and near-infrared spectra of these "stripeteeth" arrays, which act as microantenna arrays for energy harvesting and detection, on silicon substrates. Modeling the stripe-teeth arrays predicts a substantial net a.c. voltage across the MIM diode, even when the stripe-teeth microrectenna arrays are illuminated at normal incidence.
Nanostructured Metal Oxides for Stoichiometric Degradation of Chemical Warfare Agents.
Štengl, Václav; Henych, Jiří; Janoš, Pavel; Skoumal, Miroslav
Metal oxides have very important applications in many areas of chemistry, physics and materials science; their properties are dependent on the method of preparation, the morphology and texture. Nanostructured metal oxides can exhibit unique characteristics unlike those of the bulk form depending on their morphology, with a high density of edges, corners and defect surfaces. In recent years, methods have been developed for the preparation of metal oxide powders with tunable control of the primary particle size as well as of a secondary particle size: the size of agglomerates of crystallites. One of the many ways to take advantage of unique properties of nanostructured oxide materials is stoichiometric degradation of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) pollutants on their surfaces.
Methods of fabricating nanostructures and nanowires and devices fabricated therefrom
Majumdar,; Arun; Shakouri, Ali; Sands, Timothy D.; Yang, Peidong; Mao, Samuel S.; Russo, Richard E.; Feick, Henning; Weber, Eicke R.; Kind, Hannes; Huang, Michael; Yan, Haoquan; Wu, Yiying; Fan, Rong
One-dimensional nanostructures having uniform diameters of less than approximately 200 nm. These inventive nanostructures, which we refer to as "nanowires", include single-crystalline homostructures as well as heterostructures of at least two single-crystalline materials having different chemical compositions. Because single-crystalline materials are used to form the heterostructure, the resultant heterostructure will be single-crystalline as well. The nanowire heterostructures are generally based on a semiconducting wire wherein the doping and composition are controlled in either the longitudinal or radial directions, or in both directions, to yield a wire that comprises different materials. Examples of resulting nanowire heterostructures include a longitudinal heterostructure nanowire (LOHN) and a coaxial heterostructure nanowire (COHN).
Methods of fabricating nanostructures and nanowires and devices fabricated therefrom
Majumdar, Arun; Shakouri, Ali; Sands, Timothy D.; Yang, Peidong; Mao, Samuel S.; Russo, Richard E.; Feick, Henning; Weber, Eicke R.; Kind, Hannes; Huang, Michael; Yan, Haoquan; Wu, Yiying; Fan, Rong
One-dimensional nanostructures having uniform diameters of less than approximately 200 nm. These inventive nanostructures, which we refer to as "nanowires", include single-crystalline homostructures as well as heterostructures of at least two single-crystalline materials having different chemical compositions. Because single-crystalline materials are used to form the heterostructure, the resultant heterostructure will be single-crystalline as well. The nanowire heterostructures are generally based on a semiconducting wire wherein the doping and composition are controlled in either the longitudinal or radial directions, or in both directions, to yield a wire that comprises different materials. Examples of resulting nanowire heterostructures include a longitudinal heterostructure nanowire (LOHN) and a coaxial heterostructure nanowire (COHN).
Modeling energy transport in nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pattamatta, Arvind
Heat transfer in nanostructures differ significantly from that in the bulk materials since the characteristic length scales associated with heat carriers, i.e., the mean free path and the wavelength, are comparable to the characteristic length of the nanostructures. Nanostructure materials hold the promise of novel phenomena, properties, and functions in the areas of thermal management and energy conversion. Example of thermal management in micro/nano electronic devices is the use of efficient nanostructured materials to alleviate 'hot spots' in integrated circuits. Examples in the manipulation of heat flow and energy conversion include nanostructures for thermoelectric energy conversion, thermophotovoltaic power generation, and data storage. One of the major challenges in Metal-Oxide Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET) devices is to study the 'hot spot' generation by accurately modeling the carrier-optical phonon-acoustic phonon interactions. Prediction of hotspot temperature and position in MOSFET devices is necessary for improving thermal design and reliability of micro/nano electronic devices. Thermoelectric properties are among the properties that may drastically change at nanoscale. The efficiency of thermoelectric energy conversion in a material is measured by a non-dimensional figure of merit (ZT) defined as, ZT = sigmaS2T/k where sigma is the electrical conductivity, S is the Seebeck coefficient, T is the temperature, and k is the thermal conductivity. During the last decade, advances have been made in increasing ZT using nanostructures. Three important topics are studied with respect to energy transport in nanostructure materials for micro/nano electronic and thermoelectric applications; (1) the role of nanocomposites in improving the thermal efficiency of thermoelectric devices, (2) the interfacial thermal resistance for the semiconductor/metal contacts in thermoelectric devices and for metallic interconnects in micro/nano electronic devices, (3) the
Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of magnetically separable hexagonal Ni/ZnO nanostructure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Senapati, Samarpita; Srivastava, Suneel K.; Singh, Shiv B.
The hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel (Ni/ZnO) nanostructure photocatalyst has successfully been prepared by the reduction of nickel chloride hexahydrate using hydrazine hydrate through the solvothermal process at 140 °C followed by surface modification of the product by the reflux method at 110 °C for 1 h. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the `as prepared' sample consists of face centered cubic Ni and hexagonal wurtzite ZnO without any traces of impurity. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images confirmed the formation of nickel nanoparticles under solvothermal conditions. These nickel nanoparticles, when subjected to reflux, formed the hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel nanostructure. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, photoluminescence (PL) and Raman studies also confirmed the presence of zinc oxide in the hybrid nanostructure. The growth mechanism for the development of the hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel (Ni/ZnO) nanostructure has also been proposed. The appearance of the hysteresis loop, in the as-prepared Ni/ZnO hybrid nanostructure, demonstrated its ferromagnetic character at room temperature. The hexagonal Ni/ZnO nanostructure also acts as an efficient photocatalyst in the degradation of methylene blue under ultraviolet light irradiation. It is observed that the catalytic efficiency of the hybrid nanocatalyst is better compared to pure zinc oxide. Most importantly, the Ni/ZnO catalyst could also be easily separated, simply by applying an external magnetic field, and reused.The hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel (Ni/ZnO) nanostructure photocatalyst has successfully been prepared by the reduction of nickel chloride hexahydrate using hydrazine hydrate through the solvothermal process at 140 °C followed by surface modification of the product by the reflux method at 110 °C for 1 h. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the `as prepared' sample consists of face
Puretzky, A.A.; Hettich, R.L.; Jin, Changming; Haufler, R.E.; Compton, R.N.; Tuinman, A.A.
Ultrafine particles formed by XeCl laser photolysis of M(CO){sub 6}, M = V, Cr, Mo, and W, have been analyzed by Fourier transform mass spectrometry and other techniques. Novel metal carbide clusters, (MoC{sub 4}){sub n}, n = 1 {minus} 4 and (WC{sub 4}){sub m}, m = 1 {minus} 8, were detected and studied. The material produced by photolysis of V(CO){sub 6} shows a series of vanadium-oxygen clusters, V{sub x}O{sub 2x+2}, x = 2 {minus} 10. No clusters of any type were detected in the photolysis product of Cr(CO){sub 6}. Structures based on the experimental evidence are proposed and discussed in light of their chemical reactivity.
Synthesis of nanostructured polyaniline
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Surwade, Sumedh P.
The organization of my thesis is as follows: (a) Chapter III describes the synthesis of bulk quantities of polyaniline nanofibers in one step using a simple and versatile high ionic strength aqueous system (HCl/NaCl) that permits the use of pure H2O2 as a mild oxidant without any added metal or enzyme catalyst. Polyaniline nanofibers obtained are highly conducting, sigma˜1--5 S/cm, and spectroscopically similar to conventional polyaniline synthesized using stronger oxidants. The synthesis method is further extended to the synthesis of oligoanilines of controlled molecular weight, e.g., aniline tetramer, octamer, and hexadecamer. Microns long tetramer nanofibers are synthesized using this method. (b) Chapter IV describes the mechanism of nanofiber formation in polyaniline. It is proposed that the surfaces such as the walls of the reaction vessel and/or intentionally added surfaces play a dramatic role in the evolution of nanofibrillar morphology. Nucleation sites on surfaces promote the accumulation of aniline dimer that reacts further to yield aniline tetramer, which (surprisingly) is entirely in form of nanofibers and whose morphology is transcribed to the bulk by a double heterogeneous nucleation mechanism. This unexpected phenomenon could form the basis of nanofiber formation in all classes of precipitation polymerization systems. (c) Chapter V is the mechanistic study on the formation of oligoanilines during the chemical oxidation of aniline in weakly acidic, neutral or basic media using peroxydisulfate oxidant. It is proposed that the reaction proceeds via the intermediacy of benzoquinone monoimine that is formed as a result of a Boyland-Sims rearrangement of aniline. The initial role of peroxydisulfate is to provide a pathway for the formation of benzoquinone monoimine intermediate that is followed by a conjugate Michael-type addition reaction with aniline or sulfated anilines. The products isolated in pH 2.5--10.0 buffers are intermediate species at various
Nanostructured Mo-based electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage.
Hu, Xianluo; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Xiaoxiao; Mei, Yueni; Huang, Yunhui
The development of advanced energy storage devices is at the forefront of research geared towards a sustainable future. Nanostructured materials are advantageous in offering huge surface to volume ratios, favorable transport features, and attractive physicochemical properties. They have been extensively explored in various fields of energy storage and conversion. This review is focused largely on the recent progress in nanostructured Mo-based electrode materials including molybdenum oxides (MoO(x), 2 ≤ x ≤ 3), dichalconides (MoX2, X = S, Se), and oxysalts for rechargeable lithium/sodium-ion batteries, Mg batteries, and supercapacitors. Mo-based compounds including MoO2, MoO3, MoO(3-y) (0 < y < 1), MMo(x)O(y) (M = Fe, Co, Ni, Ca, Mn, Zn, Mg, or Cd; x = 1, y = 4; x = 3, y = 8), MoS2, MoSe2, (MoO2)2P2O7, LiMoO2, Li2MoO3, etc. possess multiple valence states and exhibit rich chemistry. They are very attractive candidates for efficient electrochemical energy storage systems because of their unique physicochemical properties, such as conductivity, mechanical and thermal stability, and cyclability. In this review, we aim to provide a systematic summary of the synthesis, modification, and electrochemical performance of nanostructured Mo-based compounds, as well as their energy storage applications in lithium/sodium-ion batteries, Mg batteries, and pseudocapacitors. The relationship between nanoarchitectures and electrochemical performances as well as the related charge-storage mechanism is discussed. Moreover, remarks on the challenges and perspectives of Mo-containing compounds for further development in electrochemical energy storage applications are proposed. This review sheds light on the sustainable development of advanced rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors with nanostructured Mo-based electrode materials.
Synthesis of branched metal nanostructures with controlled architecture and composition
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ortiz, Nancy
On account of their small size, metal nanoparticles are proven to be outstanding catalysts for numerous chemical transformations and represent promising platforms for applications in the fields of electronics, chemical sensing, medicine, and beyond. Many properties of metal nanoparticles are size-dependent and can be further manipulated through their shape and architecture (e.g., spherical vs. branched). Achieving morphology control of nanoparticles through solution-based techniques has proven challenging due to limited knowledge of morphology development in nanosyntheses. To overcome these complications, a systematic examination of the local ligand environment of metal precursors on nanostructure formation was undertaken to evaluate its contribution to nanoparticle nucleation rate and subsequent growth processes. Specifically, this thesis will provide evidence from ex situ studies---Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis)---that support the hypothesis that strongly coordinated ligands delay burst-like nucleation to generate spherical metal nanoparticles and ligands with intermediate binding affinity regulate the gradual reduction of metal precursors to promote aggregated assembly of nanodendrites. These ex situ studies were coupled with a new in situ perspective, providing detailed understanding of metal precursor transformation, its direct relation to nanoparticle morphology development, and the ligand influence towards the formation of structurally complex metal nanostructures, using in situ synchrotron X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Ultra Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (USAXS). The principles extracted from the study of monometallic nanostructure formation were also found to be generally applicable to the synthesis of bimetallic nanostructures, e.g., Pd-Pt architectures, with either core-shell or alloyed structures that were readily achieved by ligand selection. These outcomes provide a direct connection between fundamental
Nanostructures: a platform for brain repair and augmentation
Vidu, Ruxandra; Rahman, Masoud; Mahmoudi, Morteza; Enachescu, Marius; Poteca, Teodor D.; Opris, Ioan
Nanoscale structures have been at the core of research efforts dealing with integration of nanotechnology into novel electronic devices for the last decade. Because the size of nanomaterials is of the same order of magnitude as biomolecules, these materials are valuable tools for nanoscale manipulation in a broad range of neurobiological systems. For instance, the unique electrical and optical properties of nanowires, nanotubes, and nanocables with vertical orientation, assembled in nanoscale arrays, have been used in many device applications such as sensors that hold the potential to augment brain functions. However, the challenge in creating nanowires/nanotubes or nanocables array-based sensors lies in making individual electrical connections fitting both the features of the brain and of the nanostructures. This review discusses two of the most important applications of nanostructures in neuroscience. First, the current approaches to create nanowires and nanocable structures are reviewed to critically evaluate their potential for developing unique nanostructure based sensors to improve recording and device performance to reduce noise and the detrimental effect of the interface on the tissue. Second, the implementation of nanomaterials in neurobiological and medical applications will be considered from the brain augmentation perspective. Novel applications for diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, meningitis, stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and autism will be considered. Because the blood brain barrier (BBB) has a defensive mechanism in preventing nanomaterials arrival to the brain, various strategies to help them to pass through the BBB will be discussed. Finally, the implementation of nanomaterials in neurobiological applications is addressed from the brain repair/augmentation perspective. These nanostructures at the interface between nanotechnology and neuroscience will play a pivotal role not only in
Printable nanostructured silicon solar cells for high-performance, large-area flexible photovoltaics.
Lee, Sung-Min; Biswas, Roshni; Li, Weigu; Kang, Dongseok; Chan, Lesley; Yoon, Jongseung
Nanostructured forms of crystalline silicon represent an attractive materials building block for photovoltaics due to their potential benefits to significantly reduce the consumption of active materials, relax the requirement of materials purity for high performance, and hence achieve greatly improved levelized cost of energy. Despite successful demonstrations for their concepts over the past decade, however, the practical application of nanostructured silicon solar cells for large-scale implementation has been hampered by many existing challenges associated with the consumption of the entire wafer or expensive source materials, difficulties to precisely control materials properties and doping characteristics, or restrictions on substrate materials and scalability. Here we present a highly integrable materials platform of nanostructured silicon solar cells that can overcome these limitations. Ultrathin silicon solar microcells integrated with engineered photonic nanostructures are fabricated directly from wafer-based source materials in configurations that can lower the materials cost and can be compatible with deterministic assembly procedures to allow programmable, large-scale distribution, unlimited choices of module substrates, as well as lightweight, mechanically compliant constructions. Systematic studies on optical and electrical properties, photovoltaic performance in experiments, as well as numerical modeling elucidate important design rules for nanoscale photon management with ultrathin, nanostructured silicon solar cells and their interconnected, mechanically flexible modules, where we demonstrate 12.4% solar-to-electric energy conversion efficiency for printed ultrathin (∼ 8 μm) nanostructured silicon solar cells when configured with near-optimal designs of rear-surface nanoposts, antireflection coating, and back-surface reflector.
Floating AC-DEP (dielectrophoretic) manipulations of fluorescent nanoparticle at metal nanostructure for plasmonic applications
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kim, J.; Shin, H. J.; Hwang, K. S.; Park, J. H.
We propose the fluorescent nanoparticle manipulations at nano-metal structures with floating AC-DEP force for plasmonic applications. The electrode gap was optimized to induce enough DEP force around the nano-structure for manipulation of the nanoparticles. 10um wide gap of electrode was acquired to apply the floating AC-DEP force at various designed metal nano-structure such as nanowire, y-branch and vortex. The all shape of nano-metal structures are formed at the gap of microelectrode and not connected with microelectrode. The gold nano-structures in the gap of microelectrode were fabricated with e-beam lithography and lift-off process. Before the formation of metal nanostructure, micro electrodes for applying the electric field around the metal nano-structures were fabricated with photolithography and lift-off process. Cadmium selenide (CdSe/ZnS) QDs (0.8 nM, emission wavelength of 605 nm) with a 25 nm zinc sulfide capping layer and 100nm polystyrene nano bead (1 nM, emission wavelength of 610nm) were used as fluorescent nanoparticles. We applied the 8 Vpp, 3 MHz sine wave for the positive DEP force, and it resulted in 108 V/m electric field and 1011 V/m electric field gradient around gold nanowire with floating AC. The fluorescent nanoparticle's attachment at the nanowire is confirmed by the fluorescent optical analysis. The fluorescent nanoparticles are located successfully at designed metal nano-structures for plasmonic applications.
Controlled synthesis of snowflake-like self-assemblies palladium nanostructures under microwave irradiation
Xie, Ting; Ma, Yue; Yang, Hanmin Li, Jinlin
Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • We demonstrated the synthesis of snowflake-like palladium nanostructures for the first time. • We discussed the influencing factors on the synthesis of snowflake-like Pd nanostructures. • The molar ratio of H{sub 2}Pd{sub 4} to PVP at 5 is the optimal selection. • The growth process was discussed. - Abstract: Self-assembly snowflake-like palladium nanostructures were synthesized under microwave irradiation using H{sub 2}PdCl{sub 4} as precursor, benzyl alcohol as both solvent and reducing agent, and PVP as stabilizer. The Pd snowflake-like nanostructures were formed and then characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray powder diffraction. The TEM images showed that the Pd nano-snowflakes were self-assemblies organized by hundreds of small spherical nanoparticles. Pd snowflake-like nanostructures with well-defined shape and uniform size can be obtained by tuning the concentration of palladium precursor, the molar ratio of H{sub 2}PdCl{sub 4}/PVP, as well as the heating time by microwave irradiation. The possible growing process of the snowflake-like Pd structures was also proposed on the basis of investigating the properties of as-synthesized Pd nanostructures under different conditions.
Formation and shape-control of hierarchical cobalt nanostructures using quaternary ammonium salts in aqueous media
Deshmukh, Ruchi; Mehra, Anurag
Aggregation and self-assembly are influenced by molecular interactions. With precise control of molecular interactions, in this study, a wide range of nanostructures ranging from zero-dimensional nanospheres to hierarchical nanoplates and spindles have been successfully synthesized at ambient temperature in aqueous solution. The nanostructures reported here are formed by aggregation of spherical seed particles (monomers) in presence of quaternary ammonium salts. Hydroxide ions and a magnetic moment of the monomers are essential to induce shape anisotropy in the nanostructures. The cobalt nanoplates are studied in detail, and a growth mechanism based on collision, aggregation, and crystal consolidation is proposed based on a electron microscopy studies. The growth mechanism is generalized for rods, spindles, and nearly spherical nanostructures, obtained by varying the cation group in the quaternary ammonium hydroxides. Electron diffraction shows different predominant lattice planes on the edge and on the surface of a nanoplate. The study explains, hereto unaddressed, the temporal evolution of complex magnetic nanostructures. These ferromagnetic nanostructures represent an interesting combination of shape anisotropy and magnetic characteristics. PMID:28326240
Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of magnetically separable hexagonal Ni/ZnO nanostructure.
Senapati, Samarpita; Srivastava, Suneel K; Singh, Shiv B
The hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel (Ni/ZnO) nanostructure photocatalyst has successfully been prepared by the reduction of nickel chloride hexahydrate using hydrazine hydrate through the solvothermal process at 140 °C followed by surface modification of the product by the reflux method at 110 °C for 1 h. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the 'as prepared' sample consists of face centered cubic Ni and hexagonal wurtzite ZnO without any traces of impurity. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images confirmed the formation of nickel nanoparticles under solvothermal conditions. These nickel nanoparticles, when subjected to reflux, formed the hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel nanostructure. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, photoluminescence (PL) and Raman studies also confirmed the presence of zinc oxide in the hybrid nanostructure. The growth mechanism for the development of the hexagonal zinc oxide coated nickel (Ni/ZnO) nanostructure has also been proposed. The appearance of the hysteresis loop, in the as-prepared Ni/ZnO hybrid nanostructure, demonstrated its ferromagnetic character at room temperature. The hexagonal Ni/ZnO nanostructure also acts as an efficient photocatalyst in the degradation of methylene blue under ultraviolet light irradiation. It is observed that the catalytic efficiency of the hybrid nanocatalyst is better compared to pure zinc oxide. Most importantly, the Ni/ZnO catalyst could also be easily separated, simply by applying an external magnetic field, and reused.
Biomolecule derived nanostructured arrays
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yuan, Zhen
During the last decade, intensive research have been reported on biomimetic approaches towards achieving mono-dispersed nanoparticles, and building self-assembled system out of those (organizing nanoparticles). However the development of this research avenue is being hindered by the limited knowledge and very few practical, efficient, cost-effective approaches for implementation of the bio-derived arrays into engineering practice. The objective of this work is to biomimeticaly form nanocomposite materials using a simple, rapid, inexpensive, scalable approach, which is general enough and not limited to colloidal particle self-assembly. Throughout the studies, we have developed a universally applicable process, which is to fabricate macro-biomolecular arrays on solid substrates based on the convective self-assembly of colloidal particles. We have demonstrated that protein (ferritin) and virus (phage) arrays were directly deposited onto solid substrates such as glass, silicon wafer, and gold substrate in closed or near closed-packed order. The arrays were further incorporated into a more robust silica matrix, in such that strengthens the thermal stability and provides porous accessibility. After treatment in controlled pyrolysis, the organic protein shell was removed, left mono-dispersed iron-oxide nanoparticles intact on the substrate or in the silica matrix. Both iron-oxide nanoparticles arrays with or without silica matrix have been further characterized to possess superferromagnetic properties at low temperature (15 K), same as that in bulk material. Initial work on protein patterning, through combining either lithography based top-down or bottom-up techniques with our novel deposition approach, was presented as well. Thin film deposition of mesoporous materials using convective self-assembly is another main part in this work. Both silica and carbon mesoporous thin films were successfully formed using the convective self-assembly horizontal-coating approach. We
Catalyst-free growth and tailoring morphology of zinc oxide nanostructures by plasma-enhanced deposition at low temperature
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, W. Z.; Wang, B. B.; Qu, Y. Z.; Huang, X.; Ostrikov, K.; Levchenko, I.; Xu, S.; Cheng, Q. J.
ZnO nanostructures were grown under different deposition conditions from Zn films pre-deposited onto Si substrates in O2-Ar plasma, ignited in an advanced custom-designed plasma-enhanced horizontal tube furnace deposition system. The morphology and structure of the synthesized ZnO nanostructures were systematically and extensively investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. It is shown that the morphology of ZnO nanostructures changes from the hybrid ZnO/nanoparticle and nanorod system to the mixture of ZnO nanosheets and nanorods when the growth temperature increases, and the density of ZnO nanorods increases with the increase of oxygen flow rate. The formation of ZnO nanostructures was explained in terms of motion of Zn atoms on the Zn nanoparticle surfaces, and to the local melting of Zn nanoparticles or nanosheets. Moreover, the photoluminescence properties of ZnO nanostructures were studied, and it was revealed that the photoluminescence spectrum features two strong ultraviolet bands at about 378 and 399 nm and a series of weak blue bands within a range of 440-484 nm, related to the emissions of free excitons, near-band edge, and defects of ZnO nanostructures. The obtained results enrich our knowledge on the synthesis of ZnO-based nanostructures and contribute to the development of ZnO-based optoelectronic devices.
Ion irradiation induced element-enriched and depleted nanostructures in Zr-Al-Cu-Ni metallic glass
Chen, H. C.; Liu, R. D.; Yan, L. E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Zhou, X. T. E-mail: email@example.com; Cao, G. Q.; Wang, G.
The microstructural evolution of a Zr-Al-Cu-Ni metallic glass induced by irradiation with Ar ions was investigated. Under ion irradiation, the Cu- and Ni-enriched nanostructures (diameter of 30–50 nm) consisted of crystalline and amorphous structures were formed. Further, Cu- and Ni-depleted nanostructures with diameters of 5–20 nm were also observed. The formation of these nanostructures can be ascribed to the migration of Cu and Ni atoms in the irradiated metallic glass.
Self-organized vertically aligned single-crystal silicon nanostructures with controlled shape and aspect ratio by reactive plasma etching
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Xu, S.; Levchenko, I.; Huang, S. Y.; Ostrikov, K.
The formation of vertically aligned single-crystalline silicon nanostructures via "self-organized" maskless etching in Ar+H2 plasmas is studied. The shape and aspect ratio can be effectively controlled by the reactive plasma composition. In the optimum parameter space, single-crystalline pyramid-like nanostructures are produced; otherwise, nanocones and nanodots are formed. This generic nanostructure formation approach does not involve any external material deposition. It is based on a concurrent sputtering, etching, hydrogen termination, and atom/radical redeposition and can be applied to other nanomaterials.
Optical nanostructures in 2D for wide-diameter and broadband beam collimation.
Clark, James; Anguita, José V; Chen, Ying; Silva, S Ravi P
Eliminating curved refracting lensing components used in conventional projection, imaging and sensing optical assemblies, is critical to enable compactness and miniaturisation of optical devices. A suitable means is replacing refracting lenses with two-dimensional optical media in flat-slab form, to achieve an equivalent optical result. One approach, which has been the focus of intense research, uses a Veselago lens which features a negative-index metamaterial. However, practical implementations rely on resonance techniques, thus broadband operation at optical frequencies imposes significant technical challenges that have been difficult to overcome. Here, we demonstrate a highly-collimated, broadband, wide-diameter beam from a compact source in flat-slab form, based on light collimation using nanomaterials ordered in patterns and embedded into flexible polymers. These provide a highly anisotropic absorption coefficient due to patterns created by vertical carbon nanotube structures grown on glass, and the anisotropic electrical conductivity of the nanotubes. We show this nanostructure strongly absorbs unwanted off-axis light rays, whilst transmitting the desired on-axis rays, to achieve the required optical effect over broadband, from visible to short-infrared, thus circumventing some technical limitations of negative-index metamaterials. We further show a low substrate-temperature system for nanotube growth, allowing direct implementation into heat-sensitive large-area devices.
Optical nanostructures in 2D for wide-diameter and broadband beam collimation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Clark, James; Anguita, José V.; Chen, Ying; Silva, S. Ravi P.
Eliminating curved refracting lensing components used in conventional projection, imaging and sensing optical assemblies, is critical to enable compactness and miniaturisation of optical devices. A suitable means is replacing refracting lenses with two-dimensional optical media in flat-slab form, to achieve an equivalent optical result. One approach, which has been the focus of intense research, uses a Veselago lens which features a negative-index metamaterial. However, practical implementations rely on resonance techniques, thus broadband operation at optical frequencies imposes significant technical challenges that have been difficult to overcome. Here, we demonstrate a highly-collimated, broadband, wide-diameter beam from a compact source in flat-slab form, based on light collimation using nanomaterials ordered in patterns and embedded into flexible polymers. These provide a highly anisotropic absorption coefficient due to patterns created by vertical carbon nanotube structures grown on glass, and the anisotropic electrical conductivity of the nanotubes. We show this nanostructure strongly absorbs unwanted off-axis light rays, whilst transmitting the desired on-axis rays, to achieve the required optical effect over broadband, from visible to short-infrared, thus circumventing some technical limitations of negative-index metamaterials. We further show a low substrate-temperature system for nanotube growth, allowing direct implementation into heat-sensitive large-area devices.
Optical nanostructures in 2D for wide-diameter and broadband beam collimation
Clark, James; Anguita, José V.; Chen, Ying; Silva, S. Ravi P.
Eliminating curved refracting lensing components used in conventional projection, imaging and sensing optical assemblies, is critical to enable compactness and miniaturisation of optical devices. A suitable means is replacing refracting lenses with two-dimensional optical media in flat-slab form, to achieve an equivalent optical result. One approach, which has been the focus of intense research, uses a Veselago lens which features a negative-index metamaterial. However, practical implementations rely on resonance techniques, thus broadband operation at optical frequencies imposes significant technical challenges that have been difficult to overcome. Here, we demonstrate a highly-collimated, broadband, wide-diameter beam from a compact source in flat-slab form, based on light collimation using nanomaterials ordered in patterns and embedded into flexible polymers. These provide a highly anisotropic absorption coefficient due to patterns created by vertical carbon nanotube structures grown on glass, and the anisotropic electrical conductivity of the nanotubes. We show this nanostructure strongly absorbs unwanted off-axis light rays, whilst transmitting the desired on-axis rays, to achieve the required optical effect over broadband, from visible to short-infrared, thus circumventing some technical limitations of negative-index metamaterials. We further show a low substrate-temperature system for nanotube growth, allowing direct implementation into heat-sensitive large-area devices. PMID:26732851
Faithful contrastive features in learning.
Tesar, Bruce
This article pursues the idea of inferring aspects of phonological underlying forms directly from surface contrasts by looking at optimality theoretic linguistic systems (Prince & Smolensky, 1993/2004). The main result proves that linguistic systems satisfying certain conditions have the faithful contrastive feature property: Whenever 2 distinct morphemes contrast on the surface in a particular environment, at least 1 of the underlying features on which the 2 differ must be realized faithfully on the surface. A learning procedure exploiting the faithful contrastive feature property, contrast analysis, can set the underlying values of some features, even where featural minimal pairs do not exist, but is nevertheless fundamentally limited in what it can set. This work suggests that observation of surface contrasts between pairs of words can contribute to the learning of underlying forms, while still supporting the view that interaction with the phonological mapping will be necessary to fully determine underlying forms.
Recent achievements in nanostructured photovoltaic devices.
Khlyap, Halyna M; Laptev, Viktor I
This mini-review summarizes some key interesting applications and perspectives of nanostructured devices for future nanoelectronics, among them are photonic circuits, carbon nanostructures for chemisensors, unique Ag-Cu-nanocluster contacts for high-effective solar cells. Recent patents in the field are also discussed.
Vertically aligned nanostructure scanning probe microscope tips
Guillorn, Michael A.; Ilic, Bojan; Melechko, Anatoli V.; Merkulov, Vladimir I.; Lowndes, Douglas H.; Simpson, Michael L.
Methods and apparatus are described for cantilever structures that include a vertically aligned nanostructure, especially vertically aligned carbon nanofiber scanning probe microscope tips. An apparatus includes a cantilever structure including a substrate including a cantilever body, that optionally includes a doped layer, and a vertically aligned nanostructure coupled to the cantilever body.
Metal oxide nanostructures with hierarchical morphology
Ren, Zhifeng; Lao, Jing Yu; Banerjee, Debasish
The present invention relates generally to metal oxide materials with varied symmetrical nanostructure morphologies. In particular, the present invention provides metal oxide materials comprising one or more metallic oxides with three-dimensionally ordered nanostructural morphologies, including hierarchical morphologies. The present invention also provides methods for producing such metal oxide materials.
Processing of Nanostructured Devices Using Microfabrication Techniques
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hunter, Gary W (Inventor); Xu, Jennifer C (Inventor); Evans, Laura J (Inventor); Kulis, Michael H (Inventor); Berger, Gordon M (Inventor); Vander Wal, Randall L (Inventor)
Systems and methods that incorporate nanostructures into microdevices are discussed herein. These systems and methods can allow for standard microfabrication techniques to be extended to the field of nanotechnology. Sensors incorporating nanostructures can be fabricated as described herein, and can be used to reliably detect a range of gases with high response.
Electronic and structural properties of functional nanostructures
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yang, Teng
In this Thesis, I present a study of electronic and structural properties of functional nanostructures such as MoSxIy nanowires, self-assembled monolayer on top of metallic surfaces and structural changes induced in graphite by photo excitations. MoSxI y nanowires, which can be easily synthesized in one step, show many advantages over conventional carbon nanotubes in molecular electronics and many other applications. But how to self-assemble them into desired pattern for practical electronic network? Self-assembled monolayers of polymers on metallic surfaces may help to guide pattern formation of some nanomaterials such as MoSxIy nanowires. I have investigated the physical properties of these nanoscale wires and microscopic self-assembly mechanisms of patterns by total energy calculations combined with molecular dynamics simulations and structure optimization. First, I studied the stability of novel Molybdenum chaicohalide nanowires, a candidate for molecular electronics applications. Next, I investigated the self-assembly of nanoparticles into ordered arrays with the aid of a template. Such templates, I showed, can be formed by polymer adsorption on surfaces such as highly ordered pyrolytic graphite and Ag(111). Finally, I studied the physical origin of of structural changes induced in graphite by light in form of a femtosecond laser pulse.