Volume 9 Issue 3

An Overview of Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene for Biosensing Applications

Zanzan Zhu¹	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 25
First Online: January 4, 2017 (Review)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0128-6

The immobilization of glucose oxidase (GOx) on the surface of SWNTs by using enzyme adsorption involves a layer-bylayer technique. PSS poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), IL ionic liquid. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [45]. Copyright (2009) American Chemical Society
Fabrication of a glucose biosensor based on a CNT nanoelectrode: a electrochemical treatment of the CNT nanoelectrode assembly for functionalization. b Coupling of GOx to the CNT nanoelectrode ensembles. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [53]. Copyright (2004) American Chemical Society
Illustration of the procedure used for the preparation of the Pt/MnO2/f-MWCNT film. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [54]. Copyright (2015) Royal Society of Chemistry
Electrochemical biosensor strategy for thrombin using aptamer-wrapped SWNT as electrochemical labels. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [67]. Copyright (2011) Elsevier
Schematic demonstration for the ‘‘sandwich’’-type strategy electrochemical immunosensor. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [72]. Copyright (2011) Elsevier
A schematic of field-effect transistor
The picture demonstrates two electrodes connected by a semiconducting SWNT with GOx enzymes immobilized on its
a Fabrication of the hierarchical FeN NPs/NG core–shell. b The proposed NADH measurement mechanism on a FeN NPs/NG core– shell hybrid-based electrode. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [113]. Copyright (2016) Elsevier
The VG FET sensor is made by direct growth of VG between the drain and the source electrodes. Probe antibody is labeled to the VG surface through Au NPs. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [127]. Copyright (2013) Nature Publishing Group
Illustrative scheme of the preparation of graphene field-effect transistor. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [129]. Copyright (2016) Nature Publishing Group
Schematic representation of the ssDNA-GO architecture platform for multiplex targets detection. a In the presence of a complementary target T3, P3 reacts with T3 to form a P3–T3 complex, which detaches from the GO surface, resulting in the fluorescence ‘‘on’’ state. b P1 assumes the fluorescence ‘‘off’’ state by the formation of probe–GO architecture, but switches to the ‘‘on’’ state by the interaction with thrombin. c In the presence of Ag+ or Hg2+, P4 or P5 is self-folded to form the stable C–Ag+–C or T– Hg2+ –T structure, leading to the fluorescence ‘‘on’’ state. However, by continuing to add cysteine to the above solution, the C–Ag+–C or T–Hg2+–T structure is disrupted by Ag–S or Hg–S bond between cysteine and Ag+ or Hg2+, switching to the fluorescence ‘‘off’’ state again. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [135]. Copyright (2011) Elsevier
Schematic illustration of fluorescent turn-on sensor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) detection using peptide-assembled GO. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [136]. Copyright (2015) American Chemical Society
Schematic illustration of in situ molecular probing in living cells by using aptamer/GO-nS nanocomplex. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [137]. Copyright (2010) American Chemical Society
a Scanning electron micrograph of the array of CNTFETs. S source, D drain, G contact to back gate. A total of 896 pairs of S/D electrodes are packed in 1 cm2. b Schematic of device structure. The heavily doped p-type substrate is used as the gate. c 5 9 5 lm2 AFM picture of a CNTFET device. Vertical scale: 20 nm. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [79]. Copyright (2009) American Chemical Society
a Illustration of DNA undergoing a conformational transition from the B form (top) to the Z form (bottom) on a carbon nanotube. b Concentration-dependent fluorescence response of the DNA-encapsulated (6,5) nanotube to divalent chloride counterions. The inset shows the (6,5) fluorescence band at starting (blue) and final (pink) concentrations of Hg2+. c Area map of the (6,5) nanotube peak fluorescence intensity of DNA-SWNTs within murine 3T3 fibroblast cells overlaid on an optical micrograph of the same region. d Illustration of the experimental method used for ion-binding experiments conducted in mammalian cells. A cell containing endosome-bound DNA-SWNTs undergoes 785-nm excitation through a microscope objective. e The (6,5) nanotube fluorescence peak energy of DNA-SWNTs in 3T3 fibroblasts plotted versus Hg2+ concentration in the cell medium. The fluorescence energy of a population of 8–10 cells was averaged for each data point. Error bars indicate 1SD. The red line shows the model curve from original Hg2+ binding experiment conducted in Tris buffer. The inset shows individual spectra at each concentration. f The (6, 5) nanotube fluorescence energy of DNA-SWNTs in the following highly absorptive and scattering media: whole rooster blood (green triangles), black dye solution (black squares), and chicken tissue (blue circles) plotted on a model curve (red) from Hg2+ addition to SWNTs in buffer. The DE of all blood and tissue data points was corrected for an initial redshift due to the cellular environment. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [85]. Copyright (2006) American Association for the Advancement of Science. (Color figure online)
Multicolor SWNT Raman labels for multiplexed protein detection. a Two-layer, direct, microarray-format protein detection with distinct Raman labels based upon pure 12C and 13C SWNT tags. 12C and 13C SWNTs were conjugated to GaM and GaH-IgGs, respectively, providing specific binding to complimentary IgGs of mouse or human origin, even during mixed incubation with analyte (as shown). b G-mode Raman scattering spectra of 12C (red) and 13C (green) SWNT Raman tags are easily resolvable, have nearly identical scattering intensities, and are excited simultaneously with a 785-nm laser. This allows rapid, multiplexed protein detection. c Raman scattering map of integrated 12C (red) and 13C (green) SWNT G-mode scattering above baseline, demonstrating easily resolved, multiplexed IgG detection based upon multicolor SWNT Raman labels. Scale bar, 500 lm. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [87]. Copyright (2008) Nature Publishing Group. (Color figure online)
a DPVs at the GC electrode for G (blue), A (orange), T (violet), and C (magenta), respectively. b DPVs at the graphite/GC electrode for G (blue), A (orange), T (violet), and C (magenta), respectively. c DPVs at the CR-GO/GC electrode for G (blue), A (orange), T(violet), and C (magenta), respectively. d DPVs for a mixture of G, A, T, and C at CR-GO/GC (green), graphite/GC (red), and GC electrodes (black). e DPVs for ssDNA at CR-GO/GC (green), graphite/GC (red), and GC electrodes (black). f DPVs for dsDNA at CR-GO/GC (green), graphite/GC (red), and GC electrodes (black). Concentrations for different species a–f: G, A, T, C, ssDNA or dsDNA: 10 lg mL-1. Electrolyte: 0.1 M pH 7.0 PBS. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [117]. Copyright (2009) American Chemical
a The setup for live-cell assay. b Real-time monitoring of nitric oxide molecule released from the attached cells on RGD-peptide covalently bonded graphene biofilm in cell culture medium. The drug was added at the time indicated by the arrow. c The current responses of the cultured cells on RGD-peptide covalently bonded graphene biofilm toward different drugs. Acetylcholine (Ach) is a model drug to stimulate cell nitric oxide release, and NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) is a specific nitric oxide inhibitor. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [124]. Copyright (2012) American Chemical Society

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Nanoscale Wire-Bonding of Individual Ag Nanowires on Au Substrate at Room Temperature

Peng Peng^{1, 2}, Wei Guo^1,*, Ying Zhu¹, Lei Liu³, Guisheng Zou³, Y. Norman Zhou^{3, 4}	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 26
First Online: January 4, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0126-8

a Schematic illustration of nanoscale wire-bonding using pressure. b Wire-bonding of Ag NWs onto Au electrodes with two welds. c A typical F-D curve during bonding of Ag NWs on Au. d SEM image of bonding location, with high magnification images of e and f close to the indentation area with a force of 400 µN
Microstructures of indentation areas after bonding with different forces from 300 to 500 µN
a SEM image of FIB sample after thinning. b The STEM image of a Ag-Au cross-section after wire-bonding (with 450 µN) sliced with FIB. c The line profiles of the Ag and Au across the Ag–Au interface from the STEM image. d HRTEM image of Ag-Au interface with matched (111) lattices showing both the Ag and Au sides. e The severely deformed lattices on the Ag and Au, with the Ag showing a 4H lattice (103) at the interface. The FFT images were taken from e showing the patterns of f the Ag side, g Au side, and h interface

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3
- nanojoining,
- Bonding,
- Diffusion,
- Interface,
- Nanoindentation,

Plasma Triggered Grain Coalescence for Self-Assembly of 3D Nanostructures

Chunhui Dai¹, Daeha Joung¹, Jeong-Hyun Cho^1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 27
First Online: January 13, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0130-z

Conceptual schematics and SEM images showing the grain coalescence and self-assembly of 3D nanostructures triggered by reactive ion etching (RIE). a-f The grain coalescence process of Sn thin film during RIE process. g-l Illustrations showing the origin of the extrinsic stress and surface tension force observed within the Sn film that causes the g-i discontinuous frame to fold up or j-l the continuous film to curve up
SEM images of the grain coalescence after a 4 min 30 s RIE process with varying power (40, 120, and 200 W) and ratio of O2 over CF4 (O2/CF4 = 0.42, 1.25, and 2.50). The pressure and CF4 flow rate are fixed to be 100 mTorr and 12 sccm, respectively. A series of oxygen flow rates of 5, 15, and 30 sccm was applied to change the ratio of O2 over CF4. The value of quantified grain coalescence, vertical etch rate, and horizontal etch rate of each sample was labelled as γg (a.u.), V (nm min-1), and H (nm min-1), respectively. The scale bars are 100 nm.
Experimental results of the variation of a vertical etch rate, and b horizontal etch rate in the RIE process with varying power (40, 120, and 200 W) and varying ratio of O2 over CF4 (0.42, 1.25, 2.50). The pressure and CF4 flow rate are fixed to be 100 mTorr and 12 sccm respectively. Oxygen flow rates of 5, 15, and 30 sccm are utilized to control the ratio of oxygen over CF4
a Quantified grain coalescence in a RIE process with varying power (40, 120, and 200 W) and varying ratio of O2 over CF4 (0.42, 1.25, 2.50). The pressure and CF4 flow rate are fixed to be 100 mTorr and 12 sccm, respectively. Oxygen flow rates of 5, 15, and 30 sccm are utilized to control the ratio of oxygen over CF4. b The relationship between the grain coalescence and both the vertical and the horizontal etch rates
SEM images of self-assembly of 3D nanostructures with different oxygen flow rates. A pressure of 100 mTorr, power of 120 W, CF4 flow rate of 12 sccm, and an etching time of 4 min 30 s were used. a At an oxygen flow rate of 30 sccm, the structures were not able to be folded due to the low etch rate. b At an oxygen flow rate of 15 sccm, the nanostructures are uniformly folded with an angle of 45° based on the stress generated in the moderate grain coalescence. c At oxygen flow rate of 5 sccm, considerable heat generation and grain coalescence does not contribute to fully folded structures. Only parts of the panels get folded more than 90°.
Experimental results and SEM images. a The ratio of vertical etch rate over horizontal etch rate in a RIE system with fixed pressure of 100 mTorr and various power and gas flow rate ratio. The effect of etch rate ratio on self-assembly of b cubic structures with a fixed power of 120 W and c tube structures with a fixed power of 150 W. The six data points in b and c correspond to the labeled points ① - ⑥ in a. d-f The zoom in image of the insets of c with schematic illustration. A thin layer of Au (~3 nm) is coated on top of tube structures for imaging. The scale bar is 200 nm.

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Nitrogen-doped Carbon Nanotube Supported Pd Catalyst for Improved Electrocatalytic Performance towards Ethanol Electrooxidation

Ying Wei¹, Xinyuan Zhang¹, Zhiyong Luo², Dian Tang¹, Changxin Chen³, Teng Zhang^1,, Zailai Xie^2,	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett.(2017) 9: 28
First Online: January 7, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0129-5

Cyclic voltammograms for different catalysts in 1 M KOH solution.
Cyclic voltammograms for different catalysts in 1 M KOH solution containing 1 M ethanol.
CO-stripping voltammograms for a Pd/HTC-CNTs, b Pd/HTC- N1.67%CNTs, and c Pd/HTC-N0.86%CNTs in 1 M KOH solution, d cyclic voltammograms of different catalysts in 1 M KOH containing 1 M ethanol (in Fig. 2), normalized by EAS.
a Chronoamperometric curves for different catalysts, recorded at -0.3 V in 1 M KOH solution containing 1 M ethanol, b chronoamperometric curves for different catalysts, recorded at -0.25 V in 1 M KOH solution containing 1 M methanol, c peak current densities for different catalysts, recorded in 1 M KOH solution containing 1 M ethanol, as a function of the cycle number.
XRD patterns of different catalysts.
TEM images of a Pd/HTC-CNTs, b Pd/HTC-N1.67%CNTs, c Pd/HTC-N0.86%CNTs; d, e, and f are the size distribution images for a, b, and c, respectively. HRTEM images of g Pd/HTC-CNTs, h Pd/HTC-N1.67%CNTs, i Pd/HTC-N0.86%CNTs.
a XPS spectra of Pd/HTC-N0.86%CNTs, Pd/HTC-N1.67%CNTs, and Pd/HTC-CNTs in Pd 3d region, and b N1s spectra of Pd/HTC-N0.86%CNTs and Pd/HTC-N1.67%CNTs.
Raman spectra of HTC-N0.86%CNTs, HTC-N1.67%CNTs, and HTC-CNTs supports.
XPS spectra of Pd/CNTs and Pd/HTC-CNTs in Pd 3d region.

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Effect of Al2O3 Buffer Layers on the Properties of Sputtered VO2 Thin Films

Dainan Zhang^1,2, Tianlong Wen^1,*, Ying Xiong¹, Donghong Qiu¹, and Qiye Wen¹	Abstract\|Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9:29
First Online: January 10, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0132-x

SEM image of VO2 thin films: a, b deposited on p-Si substrate, and c, d deposited on Al2O3 buffer layers. Here, a, c are shown in low magnification, and b, d are shown in high magnification.
X-ray θ-2θ scan of VO2 thin films grown on silicon and Al2O3 buffer layers under oxygen partial pressure of 5%, and 4% in a and b, respectively.
a The resistance of VO2 thin films on Al2O3 buffer layers measured along the in-plane direction, and b the resistance measured along the perpendicular direction for VO2 thin films deposited on Al2O3 buffer layers and naked silicon substrate.
a Capacitance of Pt/Si/Al2O3/VO2/Au and Pt/Si/VO2/Au stacks as a function of voltage at 100 Hz, and b capacitance of Pt/Si/Al2O3/VO2/Au stacks as a function of voltage at different frequencies.
Schematic mechanism of electrically driven phase transformation of VO2 thin films.

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3
- Al2O3,
- Buffer layers,
- Atomic layer deposition,
- VO2 thin films,
- Heterostructure,

Dye-enhanced Self-Electrophoretic Propulsion of Light-Driven TiO2-Au Janus Micromotors

Yefei Wu¹,Renfeng Dong^2,, Qilu Zhang¹, Biye Ren^1,	Abstract \| Support Info Video 1 2 3 Video 4 5 6 7 Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9:30
First Online: January 15, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0133-9

Schematic representation of the propulsion mechanism of the UV light-induced TiO2-Au Janus micromotors in: a an aqueous dye solution, and b pure water. Tracklines of the micromotors in c an aqueous solution containing 10−5 g L−1 MB, and d pure water (taken from Video S1), under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation over 1 s (scale bar = 10 μm).
a SEM image of the TiO2 spheres (scale bar = 1 μm). b XRD pattern of the TiO2 spheres. c SEM image of a single typical TiO2-Au Janus micromotor (scale bar = 500 nm). d–f EDX spectroscopy images illustrating the distribution of titanium, gold, and oxygen, respectively, in the micromotors.
Average velocities of the TiO2-Au micromotors at a range of dye concentrations: a MB, b CR, and c MO under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation. d Average velocities of the TiO2-Au micromotors in (0) water (green bar), (1) 10−5 g L−1 MB (blue bar), (2) 10−4 g L−1 CR (red bar), and (3) 10−4 g L−1 MO (pink bar) under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation (scale bar = 50 μm). Tafel plots of Au (black lines) and TiO2 (red lines) under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation in: e 10−5 g L−1 MB, f 10−4 g L−1 CR, g 10−4 g L−1 MO, and h pure water.
a Influence of UV light intensity on the maximum velocities of the Janus micromotors. b Influence of UV light intensity on the velocities of Janus micromotors in aqueous solutions containing different MB concentrations.
UV-Vis absorbance spectra of aqueous solutions of the three dyes (MB, CR, and MO, 25 μM) following treatment under a range of conditions over 60 min: No UV light or micromotors (black line); no micromotors but UV light (red line); no UV light but micromotors (blue line); UV light and micromotors (pink line). a MB, b CR, c MO, and d Photodegradation rates of MB, CR, and MO in aqueous solutions containing TiO2-Au Janus micromotors under UV irradiation.
Effect of the number of micromotors on the photodegradation efficiency of MB (blue bar), CR (red bar), and MO (orange bar) under UV light irradiation over 60 min.
a Time-lapse images (taken from Video S6) of the magnetically-guided propulsion of Au-Ni-TiO2 micromotors under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation (scale bar = 10 μm). b Magnetic separation and redispersion process for the Au−Ni−TiO2 micromotors. Conditions: 2 μL micromotors dispersed in 100 μL aqueous solution and collected using a Neodymium magnet (power Level N52) over 30 s. c Average velocities of the Au-TiO2 Janus micromotors (black line), and Au-Ni-TiO2 micromotors after recycling once (red line), twice (blue line), and three times (pink line) at different MB concentrations under 40 mW cm−2 UV light irradiation. d Photodegradation rate of MB in a solution containing Au-TiO2 Janus micromotors (black line), and Au-Ni-TiO2 micromotors after recycling once (red line), twice (blue line), and three times (pink line) under UV light irradiation. Reaction time: 60 min.

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

High-Performance Flexible Asymmetric Supercapacitor Based on CoAl-LDH and rGO Electrodes

Shuoshuo Li¹, Pengpeng Cheng¹, Jiaxian Luo¹, Dan Zhou¹, Weiming Xu¹, Jingwei Li¹, Ruchun Li¹, Dingsheng Yuan^1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9:31
First Online: January 15, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0134-8

a XRD pattern; b FT-IR; c N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms and pore size distribution (inset); d EDX spectroscopy of CoAl-LDHs
a, b SEM of CoAl-LDHs on CC electrode and c, d TEM of CoAl-LDHs
Electrochemical performances of the CoAl-LDHs@CC electrode: a CVs at different scan rates; b GCD curves at different current densities; c Plot of C sp vs. current density; d Cycling performance during 2000 cycles at a large current density of 10A g-1
a XRD pattern of rGO@CC; b SEM image of rGO@CC electrode; and (c, d) TEM image of rGO
Electrochemical performance of the rGO@CC electrode: a CVs at different scan rates; b GCD curves at different current densities; c Plot of specific capacitance vs. current density; d Cycling performance during 2000 cycles at a large current density of 10 A g-1
a Comparison of the CV curves of the positive and negative electrodes. b CV curves of the ASC at different voltages; c CV curves of ASC device at different scan rates; d GCD curves of ASC device at different current densities
a Capacitance calculated from Fig. 7d; b CV curves (at 50 mV s-1) under different bending conditions; c Ragone plot of ASC device (inset: a red LED lighted by ASC device); d Cycle stability of the ASC device at a current density of 15 mA cm-2

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Novel Ag@Nitrogen-doped Porous Carbon Composite with High Electrochemical Performance as Anode Materials for Lithium-ion Batteries

Yuqing Chen¹, Jintang Li¹, Guanghui Yue², Xuetao Luo^1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9:32
First Online: January 15, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0131-y

SEM images of a, b ZIF-8, c, d NPC, and e, f elemental mapping of NPC
a N2 absorption-desorption isotherms of NPC and Ag-NPC, and b pore size distribution of NPC and Ag-NPC
a XRD patterns of the Ag-NPC composite and ZIF-8, b Raman spectra of Ag-NPC, and c TGA analysis of Ag-NPC and XRD pattern of the product
a, b SEM micrograph of Ag-NPC, c elemental mapping of Ag-NPC, d, e TEM image of Ag-NPC, and f HRTEM of Ag NPs on the surface of NPC
a XPS full spectra of Ag-NPC composite. The high-resolution XPS spectra of b Ag 3d and c N 1s
Schematic diagram of Ag-NPC formation process
Cyclic voltammogram of a NPC and b Ag-NPC electrode obtained at 0.1 mV s-1 in the potential window 0.01–3 V
a Electrochemical impedance spectra, b the galvanostatic discharge-charge profiles at 100 mA g-1, and c the cycling properties and d rate capabilities of NPC and Ag-NPC
Electrochemical impedance spectra in the 200th cycle of NPC and Ag-NPC
a, b SEM micrographs and c elemental mapping of Ag-NPC after 200 cycles at 100 mA g-1

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Synthesis of Hierarchical SnO2 Nanowire-TiO2 Nanorod Brushes Anchored to Commercially Available FTO-coated Glass Substrates

Derek R. Miller¹, Sheikh A. Akbar^1,*, Pat A. Morris¹	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 33
First Online: January 24, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0136-6

a FTO-coated glass slides showing growth from the slide to Au-coated while masked (left) to the nanowire-covered center (right). b Secondary electron image of surface covered in SnO2 nanowires. c Backscattered electron image of the same area, showing gold nanoparticle tips. d EDS spectrum of as-received FTO with the small fluorine bump denoted by an arrow. e XPS survey spectrum of as-received FTO showing the fluorine region of the as-received and SnO2 nanowires inset
SnO2 nanowires grown on FTO at a 520 °C, b 620 °C, c 670 °C with no catalyst, and d from additional solution of FTO spin-coated onto the original thin film grown at 570 °C
Hierarchical structure consisting of TiO2 nanorods grown radially from SnO2 nanowires anchored on FTO thin film-coated glass slides
XRD patterns from: (bottom) TiO2 nanorod film grown hydrothermally directly on FTO; (middle) plain SnO2 nanowires grown from FTO via VLS; (top) SnO2 nanowire-TiO2 nanorod brushes synthesized via two-step VLS and hydrothermal process
a TEM image of pristine SnO2 nanowire with inset SAED pattern showing a growth direction pointing toward the (502) reflection, whose plane normal corresponds to a [101] axis. b TEM image of SnO2-TiO2 brush with one plane of TiO2 nanorods growing at 33 degrees from perpendicular to the nanowire axis. Inset top right shows the [001] growth direction of the TiO2 nanorods and inset bottom left shows the faint reflections when an area including both the nanowires and nanorods is selected, showing that they have the same orientation. c An atomic model showing the epitaxial relationship of the angled nanorods growing from the SnO2 nanowire looking down the [010] zone axis

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3
- SnO2,
- Nanowire,
- Fluorinedoped SnO2 (FTO),
- Vaporliquidsolid (VLS),
- TiO2,
- Nanorod Brush,

Formation of NiFe2O4/Expanded Graphite Nanocomposites with Superior Lithium Storage Properties

Yinglin Xiao^1,2, Jiantao Zai², Bingbing Tian^1,3,* and Xuefeng Qian^2,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 34
First Online: January 9, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0127-7

Schematic illustration of possible formation mechanism of NiFe2O4/EG nanocomposite
a XRD patterns and b TGA results for NiFe2O4 and NiFe2O4/EG
TEM images of a NiFe2O4 and b NiFe2O4/EG and HRTEM image of NiFe2O4
Cyclic voltammograms of NiFe2O4/EG nanocomposites for first five cycles between 3.00 and 0.01 V vs. Li, with scan rate of 0.5 mV s-1
a Charge–discharge curves of NiFe2O4/EG at 0.1 A g-1, b cycling performances of NiFe2O4 and NiFe2O4/EG at current density of 1 A g-1, c cycling performance of NiFe2O4/EG at current density of 0.1 A g-1, and d rate capability of NiFe2O4/EG
TEM images of NiFe2O4/EG nanocomposite after 120 discharge–charge processes
Nyquist plots of NiFe2O4 and NiFe2O4/EG at 0.08 V vs. Li after five cycles

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Design and Synthesis of Cu@CuS Yolk-Shell Structures with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity

Qiuyan Li^{1, #}, Fan Wang^1,#, Linqiang Sun¹, Zhe Jiang¹, Tingting Ye¹, Meng Chen¹, Qiang Bai², Chao Wang¹, Xiguang Han^1, *	Abstract \| Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 35
First Online: January 26, 2017 (Article)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0135-7

a Schematic illustration of the formation mechanism of cubic Cu@CuS yolk-shell structures.SEM images of b Cu2O solid cubes (the inset shows the corresponding enlarged image), c Cu2O@CuS yolk-shell structures, and d single-shell Cu@CuS yolk-shell structures. The insets in c and d show the corresponding TEM images.
XRD patterns of a cubic Cu2O@CuS, b products after hydrochloric acid reaction, and c products after ammonia reaction
a Typical TEM image of cubic CuS@Cu yolk-shell structures. b, c Different magnification of the TEM image of individual Cu@CuS yolk-shell structures. d HRTEM image taken from the shell of a Cu@CuS yolk-shell structure. e The corresponding SAED pattern
SEM images of different morphologies of Cu2O before and after the sulfidation- disproportionation process: a octahedral shape, b truncated octahedral shape, and c cuboctahedral shape
TEM images of Cu@CuS octahedrons at different magnifications
a UV-Vis absorption spectra of MB as a function of the xenon lamp (simulated sunlight) irradiation time for Cu@Cu2O cubes. The inset shows the corresponding photographs of MB irradiated by a xenon lamp for different periods of time. b Photocatalytic degradation curves of MB over different photocatalysts. c Plot of ln(Ct/C0) as a function of time over different catalysts. d Cycle stability of Cu@Cu2O cubes
Nyquist plots of CuS and Cu@CuS cube samples

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3
- Nanomaterial,
- Yolkshell structure,
- Cu@CuS,
- photocatalysis,

Low-dimensional Halide Perovskites and Their Advanced Optoelectronic Applications

Jian Zhang¹, Xiaokun Yang¹, Hui Deng¹, Keke Qiao¹, Umar Farooq¹, Muhammad Ishaq¹, Fei Yi², Huan Liu², Jiang Tang¹, Haisheng Song^1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
Nano-Micro Lett. (2017) 9: 36
First Online: 09 November 2016 (Review)
DOI:10.1007/s40820-017-0137-5

Perovskite structure and solar cell efficiencies. a Perovskites possess the general crystal structure ABX3. The most prevalent perovskite in optoelectronic devices is MA lead trihalide, for which A = CH3NH3, B = Pb, and X = Cl, Br or I. b Best research-cell efficiencies. Adapted image reproduced from NREL [6].
Synthesis of CH3NH3PbBr3 QDs. Schematic illustration of the reaction system a and precursors b. c Optical image of colloidal CH3NH3PbBr3 solution. d Schematic illustration for the formation of the CH3NH3PbBr3 QDs. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [27, 34].
Colloidal CsPbX3 perovskite NCs (X = Cl, Br, I) exhibit size- and composition-tunable bandgaps covering the entire visible spectral region with narrow and bright emission: a Colloidal solutions in toluene under UV lamp (λ = 365 nm) excitation. b Representative PL spectra. c Typical optical absorption and PL spectra. d Time-resolved PL decays for all samples shown in c except CsPbCl3. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [37].
One-step growth of perovskite NWs. a, b Slip-coating fabrication process of ﬁliform halide perovskite and their optical image. c, f Roll-to-Roll printing for perovskite NWs thin film. d EISA method to fabricate aligned perovskite NWs. e Selective area deposition of perovskite NWs. g SEM image of NWs webs. f Transmittance spectra of NWs webs evolved with the precursor concentrations. Inset showed a photograph of semitransparent NWs networks from 30 wt% concentration. h Transmittance evolved with OTP precusor concentrations. i, j Full-inorganic CsPbBr3 NWs synthesized by one-step method and their typical optical absorption and PL spectra (j). Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [49, 52, 57–59].
Two-step method for perovskite NW growth. a SEM images of vertically aligned CsPbBr3 NWs with a rectangular cross-section. b HRTEM and FFT images of a CsPbBr3 NWs. c Fluorescence decay kinetics of MAPbI3 NWs. d Conductivity improvement of the in-plane perovskite NWs. e SEM image of CH3NH3PbBr3 nanorod array. f, g Typical absorption and PL spectra of CH3NH3PbBr3 nanorod arrays. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [30, 63].
Template method for perovskite NWs: Pb-containing precursor template a method for perovskite NWs (b, c). AAO template for perovskite NWs. d Photograph of a ∼9 × 9 cm2 NW arrays. e Cross-sectional SEM images of perovskite NWs. Scale bar is 500 nm. f Average τc for different diameter NWs. g Extension of carrier lifetime as the decrease of NW diameter. h, i Nanofluidic channel template growth. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [68, 70, 71].
a Single-crystalline organometal halide perovskite nanoplatelets were synthesized by a one-pot method. Inset was the photo of the achieved colloidal perovskite nanoplatelet solution. b TEM images and selected area diffraction pattern of MAPbBr3 nanoplatelets. c X-ray diffraction of MAPbBr3 nanoplatelet film. d PL spectra of MAPbBr3 nanoplatelets in toluene solution and solid state. Inset, the optical images of MAPbBr3 nanoplatelets in toluene solution and in solid-state thin film under ambient light (left) and UV irradiation (right). e Schematic drawing of the nanoplatelet synthesis setup using a home-built vapor-transport system. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [76].
Chemical-vapor-deposited methylammonium lead halide perovskite nanoplatelets. a Schematic figure of crystal structures of CH3NH3PbI3-aXa (X = I, Br, Cl). Morphological and electronic band-edge characterizations of CH3NH3PbI3 b, CH3NH3PbI3-aBra c, and CH3NH3PbI3-aCla d nanoplatelets. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [24].
Reaction temperature influence on colloidal CsPbBr3 synthesis. 8–10 nm nanocubes were formed at 150 °C a, 20 nm nanoplates from 130 °C b reaction and 90 °C c reaction yielded several-hundred-nanometer scale lamellar nanostructures. Scale bar is 50 nm. d Absorption (solid lines) and emission (dashed lines) spectra of NPLs and nanocubes for comparison. e Colloidal solution of anion-exchanged NPLs in hexane under UV illumination (λ = 365 nm). f Inorganic perovskite PL peaks evolved with their anions. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [75]
a–c Emissions of QLED devices utilizing different QD sizes. d The EL (solid line) and the PL spectra (dashed line) of samples shown in (a–c). e CIE coordinates of the three color QLEDs (circular) compared to the NTSC color standards (star). Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [90].
Device characteristics of visible PeLEDs. a Absorption (black), normalized EL (solid line in green) and PL (dashed line in green) spectra of CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskite. EL spectrum of mixed halide perovskite is shown in red. b Luminance (black) and current density (red) versus voltage characteristics of the green PeLED. c EQE versus voltage characteristics of the green PeLED. d EQE versus current density of the green PeLED. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [96].
Illustration of multilayer PeLED device. a Device structure. b Cross-sectional TEM image of multiple layers with distinct contrast. Scale bar is 50 nm. c Flat-band energy level diagram. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [90].
Perovskite NW solar cells: a, b SEM image of NWs from a one-step method and its corresponding J–V curve. Two-step-method grown NWs and corresponding device performances. c, d Top-view and cross-section of NWs films. e, f J–V and IPCE curves of NW solar cells. The scale bar is 1 m. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [52, 63].
SEM, J–V, and EQE measurements for perovskite solar cells. a Cross-section SEM image of the device. The comparison of SEM surface images of FAPbI3-based layer formed on mp-TiO2 by IEP b and conventional method c. d J–V curves of best device measured in reverse and forward modes, and e EQE spectra for best device and integrated JSC. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [101].
a One-step deposition. b Two-step sequential deposition. c Dual-source coevaporation. d Sequential vapor deposition. e Vapor-assisted solution growth process. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [18, 105–107].
Perovskite NW photodetectors: Slip-coating-based NWs PDs. a Dark and laser illuminated I–V curves. b Time-resolved photoresponse. EISA-method-based device performances. c I–t curves. d High-resolution scan to one cycle of I–t curves. Doctor-blading-based NW PDs. e Wavelength-dependent photoresponsivity of the CH3NH3PbI3 MW array-based photodetectors. f Photocurrent versus light intensity curves. g Variation of dark current/photocurrent with day of photodetector based on OTP MW arrays. h Perovskite MW PD arrays for light source mapping. NW-web-based PDs for imaging. i–j Flexibility performances. k–m NW network PD arrays for imaging. n, o Encapsulation could help to improve the device stability. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [49, 52, 60].
Perovskite NWs lasers. a–f SEM image and nanolaser performances from MAPbX3 NWs. g A set of dark ﬁeld images of a IOP MW waveguide. Scale bar is 10 µm. h–i FAPbX3 NW laser performances. j–l Full-inorganic halide perovskite NW lasers. Adapted image reproduced with permission of Ref. [67, 119, 128, 129].

Published in Volume 9 Issue 3

Nano-Micro Letters

An Overview of Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene for Biosensing Applications

Nanoscale Wire-Bonding of Individual Ag Nanowires on Au Substrate at Room Temperature

Plasma Triggered Grain Coalescence for Self-Assembly of 3D Nanostructures

Nitrogen-doped Carbon Nanotube Supported Pd Catalyst for Improved Electrocatalytic Performance towards Ethanol Electrooxidation

Effect of Al2O3 Buffer Layers on the Properties of Sputtered VO2 Thin Films

Dye-enhanced Self-Electrophoretic Propulsion of Light-Driven TiO2-Au Janus Micromotors

High-Performance Flexible Asymmetric Supercapacitor Based on CoAl-LDH and rGO Electrodes

Novel Ag@Nitrogen-doped Porous Carbon Composite with High Electrochemical Performance as Anode Materials for Lithium-ion Batteries

Synthesis of Hierarchical SnO2 Nanowire-TiO2 Nanorod Brushes Anchored to Commercially Available FTO-coated Glass Substrates

Formation of NiFe2O4/Expanded Graphite Nanocomposites with Superior Lithium Storage Properties

Design and Synthesis of Cu@CuS Yolk-Shell Structures with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity

Low-dimensional Halide Perovskites and Their Advanced Optoelectronic Applications

Browse By Issue

Key topics

Search articles by

Related Articles

Browse