Chemistry and Materials Science

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Katja Sluijter

,

Gesine Gunkel-Grabole

,

Sara Nogueira

,

Aditi Mehta

Abstract: Background/Objectives: While the therapeutic potential of mRNA has attracted considerable attention in recent years, the associated nano systems to aid delivery remain incompletely understood. Delivery vectors are essential in the therapeutic application of mRNA and often consist of lipids, polymers or combinations thereof. High performing polymer families have been identified, and structure-function studies have produced insights on the role of amine groups, end groups and central monomers. This study aims to optimise the polymer backbone structure using polymer systems consisting of dual monomers or a hybrid monomer enabling insights into fine scale structure modifications. Methods: Polymer structures are designed to tune linear or cyclic central groups, hydrolysable ester groups and ionisable amines, which are further optimised with controlled distribution of structural elements. Polymers were synthesised using an amine monomer and either a combination of an acrylate and a glycidyl monomer or a novel monomer combining acrylate and glycidyl functionalities, resulting in hybrid poly(β-amino ester) and poly(amino alcohol esters) polymers (HyPBAAE), the performance of which was evaluated through nanoparticle characterisation and in vitro experiments Results: Good polyplex formation and transfection performance was observed for several polymers and could be linked to properties such as linearity and hydrophobicity. High performance was also achieved with structurally very different polymers exhibiting different physicochemical characteristics. This contrast suggests different manners of interacting with mRNA, depending on the combined properties of a polymer. Conclusions: Overall, the most favourable balance between transfection efficiency and cell viability was observed for two structurally and physiochemically distinct polymers: one consisting of independently combined poly(β-amino ester) and poly(amino alcohol esters) building blocks and another consist-ing of a novel monomer combining poly(β-amino ester) and poly(amino alcohol esters) properties. Showing that different combinations of structural elements and polymer properties can achieve comparable performance, highlighting the interdependence of properties within a nano system.

Review
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Patricia M. A. Farias

,

Priscila Vilemen

,

Andreas Stingl

,

Nathalia B. D. Lima

,

Catarina Borja

,

Isabelle Viana

,

Nathan B. Lima

,

Olavo Cardozo

Abstract: ZnO- and TiO₂-based nanocomposites combine semiconductor functionality with the structural, transport, and surface properties of other constituents. Their design requires relationships among processing, phase distribution, interfaces, and performance to be evaluated alongside durability and recovery. This narrative review critically examines these relationships in polymer–particle composites, supported oxides, and composite coatings for energy and healthcare applications. Single-phase and doped oxides and layered heterostructures are considered as constituent materials or architectural comparators, rather than classified indiscriminately as nanocomposites. Examples include chitosan/Ag@ZnO films, zeolite-supported oxides, photovoltaic interfaces and optical modifiers, and ZnO-containing implant coatings. Whey-assisted synthesis and starch-based manufacturing redesign illustrate how precursor chemistry and processing conditions influence the production of functional oxide constituents. The analysis distinguishes multifunctional potential from performance demonstrated in the same component, and material-property improvements from validated device operation. Safe and Sustainable by Design principles and life-cycle assessment connect functional requirements to processing burdens, release, repeated use, and end-of-life options. Reported benefits remain formulation- and application-specific; evidence connecting synthesis, multifunctional service, and recovery for one material stream is limited. Circular nanocomposite design therefore requires traceable processing histories, complementary structural characterization, concurrent functional testing, and requalification of recovered constituents.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Canjun Ke

,

Yubo Hao

,

Yifan Mao

,

Junli Du

,

Zhenjia Xie

,

Pei Lin

Abstract: Flexible short-wave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors are critical for versatile emerging applications, including wearable health monitors, artificial vision, and curved-surface imaging systems. Nevertheless, conventional SWIR photodetectors struggle to achieve mechanical flexibility due to their intrinsic rigidity and high-temperature processing requirements. Herein, we report flexible, self-powered SWIR image sensors based on Te0.62Se0.38/MoS2 heterojunctions. Their staggered type-II band alignments facilitate efficient photocarrier separation, demonstrating a broadband photoresponse extending to a cut-off wavelength of 1700 nm, a linear dynamic range of over 80 dB, an exceptional photo-to-dark current ratio exceeding 105, and a room-temperature specific detectivity of 1.8×109 Jones for 1550 nm illumination. Benefiting from these superior optoelectronic properties, self-powered SWIR single-pixel imaging and optical communication applications were realized. Furthermore, taking advantage of the unique one-dimensional helical chain structure of the Te-Se alloy and the ultrathin nature of MoS2, heterojunction devices fabricated on flexible polyimide substrates exhibit outstanding mechanical endurance, retaining their initial response even at a bending radius of 4 mm. These findings highlight the considerable potential of Te-Se/MoS2 heterojunctions as a versatile material platform for flexible SWIR optoelectronics and provide a promising avenue toward next-generation wearable and intelligent sensing systems.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Santiago Proano

,

Christina Wussah

,

Christine Wussah

,

Nubia Zuverza

,

Kagya Amoako

Abstract: Microfluidic systems enable precise control of fluid transport and nanoscale self-assembly but remain underutilized due to the high cost and complexity of conven-tional microfabrication. Here, we present a low-barrier fabrication and validation workflow for resin-printed microfluidic devices designed for rapid prototyping of na-noparticle synthesis platforms. Using SolidWorks-based design, geometrically distinct Y-shaped and sinusoidal (S-type) microchannels were fabricated via resin-based addi-tive manufacturing and systematically evaluated for dimensional fidelity and hydraulic performance. Measured average channel diameters (196.4 ± 2.4 μm for Y-type and 165.3 ± 3.1 μm for S-type devices) closely matched design specifications with ~5 % deviation. Priming volume measurements confirmed reproducible fluid handling (100 ± 2 μL and 98 ± 3 μL, respectively). Functional validation was performed using continuous-flow mixing of DSPC and DOTAP lipid solutions and water at ethanol: aqueous phase flow rates of 10:14, 10:28, and 10:42 mL/hr. Brightfield microscopy and transmission electron mi-croscopy (TEM) confirmed formation of nanoscale lipid assemblies consistent with mi-crofluidic self-assembly, while larger aggregates were attributed to incomplete mixing under non-optimized flow conditions and pre-filtration state of formulations. This work establishes a rapid, cost-effective, and accessible resin-printed microfluidic platform with validated geometric accuracy and functional capability for nanoparticle synthesis, enabling broader access to microfluidic research in nanomedicine and drug delivery applications.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Peter Majerič

,

Lan Kresnik

,

Saša Kos

,

Marjana Simonič

,

Špiro Ivošević

,

Rebeka Rudolf

Abstract: This study presents the development and characterization of a polymer-immobilized silver nanoparticle (AgNP) composite for potential application in water remediation and metal recycling. AgNPs were synthesized by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) using silver nitrate as a precursor and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a stabilizing agent, followed by incorporation into a sodium alginate matrix to form separable alginate/AgNP beads. The nanoparticles were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), selected-area electron diffraction (SAED), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta-potential measurements. The AgNPs were predominantly spherical and crystalline, with a TEM observed average diameter of approximately 90 nm and most particles between 50 and 125 nm. A PVP surface layer of up to approximately 10 nm was observed. DLS measurements showed a hydrodynamic diameter of 159.6 nm. AgNP incorporation into the alginate matrix was confirmed by microscopy and elemental analysis. AgCl formation inside parts of the composite was observed, indicating chemical transformation of silver and the possibility of affected stability and performance due to interactions with the surrounding environment. The dried composite exhibited a low specific surface area of 0.05 m²/g and a pore size of approximately 2 nm, indicating limited accessible porosity. Results indicate a required further optimization of AgNP loading and alginate structure, with preliminary tests of microplastic (MP) interactions with alginate/AgNP beads showing a limited interaction under the tested conditions. The developed composite provides a basis for multifunctional water treatment materials targeting microbial, metallic, organic, and MP contaminants and subsequent metal recycling.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

José Armando Hernández Díaz

,

Brian Ibe Da Silva Trejo

,

Moisés Martínez Velázquez

,

Soledad García Morales

,

Edwin Bladimir Bonilla Ascencio

,

Sergio Manuel Nuño Donlucas

,

Rosario Ortiz Hernández

,

Alberto Gutiérrez Becerra

,

Zaira Yunuen García Carvajal

,

Cristina Velasquillo

Abstract:

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) offer promising biomedical properties, although the polymeric environment can influence their physicochemical stability and cellular interactions. In this study, SeNPs synthesized using Amphipterygium glaucum leaf extract were incorporated into a medium-molecular-weight poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix to obtain a redispersible SeNPs@PVA89 nanocomposite. Spectroscopic, structural, morphological, thermal, and dispersion analyses showed that SeNPs incorporation preserved characteristic nanoscale and optical features while altering polymer organization. The hydrodynamic diameter increased from 153 to 320 nm, and the ζ-potential shifted from −53 to −22 mV, consistent with changes in the nanoparticle interfacial environment and a hydrated PVA layer. In human dermal fibroblasts, SeNPs@PVA89 induced concentration-dependent effects: metabolic activity was preserved at 3 and 6 µg/mL, whereas ≥12 µg/mL markedly reduced cell viability, and at 3 µg/mL, morphology, F-actin organization, and wound closure were preserved. Nevertheless, confocal microscopy revealed punctate intracellular fluorescence, while transmission electron microscopy showed electron-dense material within membrane-bound vesicles, alongside mitochondrial fragmentation, cristae alterations, and rough endoplasmic reticulum remodeling. Although the elemental identity of these electron-dense structures was not directly confirmed, the findings are consistent with cellular interaction and vesicular sequestration of the nanosystem. Overall, PVA-stabilized biogenic SeNPs exhibited concentration-dependent cellular effects, with ultrastructural remodeling occurring despite unaffected conventional cytocompatibility outcomes.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Alexander-Nicholas Egler-Kemmerer

,

Christina Wenck

,

Jakob Nassauer

,

Nils Meier

,

Lando Dieke

,

Frank Wiekhorst

,

Regina Bleul

Abstract: Nanotheranostics integrates diagnostic and therapeutic functions within a single plat-form, representing a compelling strategy for personalized cancer therapy. Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are intrinsic suitable for imaging and hyperthermia. However, insuf-ficient colloidal stability in physiologic environment as well as a lack in surface function-ality often limit their application in biomedicine. In this work, we address these limitations by developing drug-loaded polymeric magnetic nanohybrids (pMNHs) stabilized by nu-cleobase-functionalized copolymers that serve as both stabilizing agents and drug carri-ers. Hydrophilic copolymers were synthesized via RAFT polymerization and functional-ized with cytosine and guanine. MNPs were prepared by continuous micromixer-assisted co-precipitation, followed by copolymer self-assembly to form stable pMNHs. Physico-chemical and magnetic characterization assessed their suitability for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic particle imaging (MPI), and therapeutic magnetic hyperthermia. Polymer stabilization largely preserved magnetic performance, reducing the magnetic par-ticle spectroscopy (MPS)-derived A3* by 22% while changing A5/A3 by < 1%, and enhanced salt stability without further impairing the magnetic response. Following successful dox-orubicin (Dox) loading, the pMNHs showed evidence of cellular uptake while maintain-ing approximately 90% viability in HeLa cells across the tested Dox concentration range of 0.2–20 µM. Radiofrequency exposure induced a Dox-characteristic spectral change with-out substantially affecting the magnetic response, providing preliminary evidence for ex-ternally triggered Dox release. These findings establish nucleobase-functionalized pMNHs as effective platforms for cancer theranostics.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

G. Nardi

,

S. Zinzani

,

L. Stefanelli

,

F. Baletto

Abstract: As modelling the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles leads to useful insights to guiding experiments, we propose a novel numerical suite, NPGrowth based on LAMMPS. NPGrowth enables to simulate the seeded-mediated growth under a variety of conditions, even mimicking the growth under extreme conditions. It allows one-by-one or N-by-N atomic deposition, either when deposited atoms are uniformly distributed or through directional deposition, and atomic deposition onto selected targets, including those remiscent of a chiral molecule. moreover, NPGrowth enables the formation through sintering of two or more seeds, directional, soft-landed or through coalescence. After presenting a few toy models, we discuss the effect of directionality during the sintering of four Cu icosahedral seeds and the importance to identify a sintering geometry following a pySNOW characterisation and classification.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Dhiraj Kumar

,

Taruna Singh

,

Tristen Nies

,

Grace Liu

,

Maycoll Johnson

,

David Mei

,

Wandi Gu

,

Conrado Aparicio

,

Isha Mutreja

,

Robert S. Jones

Abstract: Mesoporous silicate nanoparticles are known for pore size, pore volume, high surface area, and tunable surface properties and as a result, have found application in medicine, healthcare, advanced materials, and devices. Furthermore, tailoring the silicate domain with certain metals has advanced the tissue engineering properties by moderating the cellular function at the molecular level for therapeutic response. However, scarce efforts have been made to explore systemic methods that could change the structure and shape of these particles and their effects on biological properties. Here, we have focused on, using Design of Experiments (DoE), optimizing reaction conditions for the synthesis of mesoporous strontium silicate nanostructures (NS) (nanoparticles – NPs and nanorods – NRs) with different physico-chemical properties. The conditions allowed change in shape from NPs to NRs by tailoring the concentration of liquid ammonia (NH4OH, 82.7 mM to 248.2 mM) during the pre-synthesis incubation state. In addition, the optimized reaction conditions allowed modulating the physico-chemical properties such as surface area, surface charge, amount of metal, pore diameter, pore volume, tailored degradation profile and release profile of the loaded drug (gentamicin). Finally, the protocol has the advantage of allowing incorporation of other metals such as cerium, rhodium, and ruthenium independently and/or in combination.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Ahmet Tuna

,

Serap Yiğit Gezgin

,

M. A. Basyooni-M. Kabatas

,

Hamdi Şükür Kılıç

Abstract: In this study, CdTe thin films were fabricated on soda-lime glass substrates via pulsed laser deposition and evaluated as immobilized semiconductor photocatalysts for the degradation of methylene blue under visible-light irradiation. XRD, AFM, SEM-EDS, photoluminescence, and photophysical characterization techniques were employed to elucidate the relationship between photocatalytic response and the structural, morphological, elemental, and optical characteristics of the fabricated thin films. Results show that increasing film thickness improves crystallinity, surface roughness, stoichiometry, optical absorption, and charge-carrier dynamics, while reducing the optical band gap from 1.71 to 1.37 eV. Among the fabricated samples, the 350 nm-thick CdTe film exhibited the highest photocatalytic performance, achieving 93.32% MB degradation after 220 minutes of visible-light irradiation, following pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.0118 min⁻¹. Photocatalytic performance was strongly influenced by solution pH, with optimal degradation at pH 10. Furthermore, scavenger experiments demonstrated that reactive oxygen species, particularly superoxide radicals, played a dominant role in the overall degradation mechanism. These findings highlight CdTe thin films produced by PLD as promising immobilized photocatalysts for efficient wastewater treatment.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Kun’ichi Miyazawa

,

Yumi Tanaka

Abstract: This paper presents a facile fabrication method for C60 fullerene nanowhisker (C60FNW) gas sensors, investigating the influence of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation on their sensing behavior. Polar gases such as methanol produced distinct sensor currents, whereas non‑polar gases such as CCl₄ exhibited no measurable response. UV irradiation led to a decrease in sensor current, indicating a photo‑induced modulation of charge transport in C60FNWs. The pronounced response to polar gases is assumed to arise from two factors: (i) an increase in electrical conductivity owing to the reduction of the HOMO–LUMO gap of C60 molecules upon adsorption of polar species, and (ii) an enhanced adsorption probability driven by dipole-induced dipole interactions between the polar molecules and C60.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Delyan Gospodinov

,

Anton Slavov

,

Ekaterina Balabanova

,

Ivan Ivanov

,

Marya Georgieva

,

Mario-Petroslav Antoniov Shatarov

,

Biliana Georgieva

,

Daniela Karashanova

Abstract: On a global scale, coffee happens to be the second most traded stock after the petroleum as billions of cups from the refreshing drink are consumed worldwide on a daily basis. As a consequence, billions of tons of waste in a form of wet spent coffee grounds are regularly produced. Since they constitute notable ecological problem, developing approaches for their valorization is seen by the global scientific community as an up to date problem. The article proposes an approach for valorization of the mentioned food waste by subjecting it to non-thermal, chemical treatment, which mimics naturally occurring processes in the environment, which produce petrified, mineralized fossils from prehistoric organic remnants. The spent coffee grounds are first treated with ethanol and then delignified with NaOH, Na2SO3 and H2O2. Powdered, bleached cellulose is obtained, which is then subjected to artificial silicification (petrification) with simultaneous synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Tetraethyl orthosilicate and AgNO3 are used for the purpose. The obtained mineralized powder is then used to produce ceramic-based, nanocomposite materials, with additional nanoparticles synthesized in the process. Even more silver nanoparticles are synthesized from the initially obtained ethanol extract. TEM, SAED, SEM, EDS and DTA/TG are used to analyze the synthesized nanoparticles.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Francesco Trotta

,

Eya Ben Khalifa

,

Fabrizio Caldera

,

Gjylije Hoti

,

Federico Cesano

,

Giuseppina Raffaini

Abstract: Xenon (Xe) is an inert noble gas receiving increasing attention in medical research due to its anesthetic properties, ability to regulate metabolic processes, and broad organoprotective effects. Due to its low molecular weight and small size, Xe can be encapsulated within α-cyclodextrin (α-CD). In this study, we combine a theoretical study based on molecular mechanics (MM) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with the synthesis and characterization of the α-CD/Xe inclusion complex. During the MD simulations, surface interactions and the formation of inclusion complexes, with Xe atoms encapsulated within the α-CD cavity, were observed in aqueous solution. As the Xe concentration in water increased, α-CD/Xe inclusion complexes with 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 stoichiometries were formed and remained stable over time, suggesting increasingly effective encapsulation at higher pressures. Following this computational investigation, experimental work was conducted to synthesize and characterize the α-CD/Xe inclusion complex using a liquid-phase encapsulation method. The complexes were prepared at pressures of 2 and 4 bar. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed weight loss. The effective encapsulation of Xe was also confirmed by solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS), which detected the characteristic m/z signals of Xe and allowed monitoring of its release over time upon contact with aqueous solution.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Yoshihiro Momose

Abstract: The performance of coatings, corrosion barriers, photocatalysts, and tribological materials is greatly influenced by in situ surface properties, requiring highly sensitive and reproducible operando surface characterization methods. We previously developed a temperature-programmed photoelectron emission (TPPE) method to clarify electron transfer behavior on light-irradiated metal surfaces. TPPE is sensitive to surface temperature and prior chemical exposure, which affect the total photoemitted electron count (NT), the photothreshold, and the activation energy derived from Arrhenius plots of NT obtained during heating–cooling cycles. This study examines the reproducibility of TPPE data and the TPPE mechanisms for Cu2O/Cu surfaces subjected to mechanical abrasion, cleaning, plasma treatment, and subsequent immersion in organic liquids. The resulting Arrhenius plots reveal both positive and negative activation energies, distinctly depending on the treatment conditions. Negative activation energies during cooling are associated with photoredox-mediated emission. TPPE is attributed to oxygen vacancies within the Cu2O surface layer interfaced with metallic Cu, serving as a direct probe of these vacancy-related states. The TPPE characteristics (NT intensity and activation energy) following exposure to various polar and nonpolar organic molecules (e.g., acetone, toluene, hexane, ethanol) correlate with the electronic properties of these vacancies, consistent with previous observations for ambient air, alcohol, and water vapor exposure. Under illumination, Cu2O vacancy states enhance photocarrier extraction (electrons and holes) and accelerate surface redox reactions within adsorbed thin films, thereby improving photocatalytic performance. Notably, the reciprocal dielectric constant of the solvents significantly influences TPPE, indicative of electrostatic surface–solvent interactions. Finally, the TPPE mechanism is discussed in the context of antiviral inactivation at the metallic copper–environment interface.

Review
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Maria Lyudmilova

,

Lyubomir Stoychev

,

Julia Genova

Abstract: As of late, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are gaining recognition as highly versatile nanomaterials with remarkable potential in biomedical applications, owing to their unique physicochemical properties. Aside from their tunable size and shape and well-defined surface chemistry, AuNPs provide strong biocompatibility and distinctive optical behavior, arising from a phenomenon widely known as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) [1,2]. These metal nanoparticles’ ability to be coupled with therapeutic molecules, targeting ligands, and polymeric coatings is suggesting they could serve as encouraging platforms in the development of next-generation cancer treatment strategies, along other metal NPs such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). [3–5]. This review focuses on recent advances in the physicochemical design of AuNPs, including the influence of particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry on biological performance and photothermal efficiency. In the context of drug delivery strategies, we discuss the made progress in lipid-encapsulated AuNP systems, combined chemo-photothermal platforms and NIR-responsive systems. At last, current translational challenges related mainly to toxicity, colloidal stability, large-scale synthesis, and clinical implementation are highlighted.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Guojun Yuan

,

Hongfang Li

,

Lei Cheng

,

Hailin Liu

,

Haolu Sun

Abstract: Asymmetric supercapacitors (ASC) achieve an excellent balance of high energy density, high power density, and long cycle life by coupling battery-type and capacitive-type electrodes. Herein, we propose an in-situ oxidation method to grow Cu(OH)₂ nanowires on copper foam (CF) as a conductive backbone, followed by a secondary hydrothermal process to coat Co-LDH nanosheets, constructing a Co-LDH@Cu(OH)₂/CF self-standing electrode with a nano-tree-like structure. The optimized Co₃-LDH@Cu(OH)₂/CF electrode delivers a high specific capacitance of 1200 mF cm-2 at 1 mA cm-2 with excellent rate performance. An ACS assembled with Co₃-LDH@Cu(OH)₂/CF as the positive electrode and activated carbon as the negative electrode operates stably within 0~1.6 V, achieving an areal capacitance of 325.6 mF cm-2 at 5 mA cm-2, a high energy density of 115.8 mWh cm-2, and outstanding cycling durability. In-situ Raman spectroscopy reflects the charge storage state and confirms the good reversible electrochemical response in alkaline electrolyte. And in-situ scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) reveals the distribution of active sites and provides kinetic coefficients via approach curves.

Review
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Panangattukara Prabhakaran Praveen Kumar

Abstract: Chiral plasmonic nanostructures have attracted considerable attention due to their remarkable optical behaviors, which vary significantly across spatial dimensions. By integrating plasmonic effects with complementary functionalities, researchers are uncovering entirely new classes of chiroptical materials with capabilities beyond conventional systems. These materials hold immense promise in diverse domains such as biosensing, asymmetric catalysis, and medical technologies. Recent progress in tailoring structural geometries and fine-tuning optical responses has further expanded the application scope of intrinsically chiral plasmonic systems. A wide range of designs has already been fabricated, enabling scientists to probe novel physical effects and practical uses. In this context, the present review highlights the different architectures of chiral plasmonic nanomaterials, explores the mechanisms underlying chirality generation, and surveys their roles in enantioselective detection, catalytic transformations, and biomedical applications. Additionally, we address current obstacles in synthesis and utilization while outlining strategic approaches and future directions for advancing these multifunctional materials.

Review
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Zhen Ren

,

Qianqian Yang

,

Yining Wang

,

Xiaochun Hang

Abstract: Polarizers and polarization optics technology has been widely used in various application fields. Although there is a wealth of independent research on polarizers, thin films and polarization spectroscopy, there is a lack of a systematic review that combines "polarizers" with "polarization spectroscopy measurement methodology". In this paper, polarizers and polarization spectroscopy has been discussed revolving the development, fabrication and characterization of related materials, which include Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)-I2 polarizers, two-dimensional (2D) functional polarizers and grid wire polarizers. The summarized methodology based on Mueller-Stokes polarimetry and Poincaré sphere, which bridges the gap between optimal structural design and performance improvement. Furthermore, this study presents characterization techniques, mechanistic insights, and potential applications of polarizers and polarization spectroscopy. These findings offer a comprehensive strategy for designing novel structures and inspire future research on next-generation functional thin films for optical displays, molecular structural analysis, polarization imaging and polarization photodetectors.

Article
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Luu Tien Hung

,

Phan Thi Minh Huyen

,

Nguyen Xuan Dung

Abstract: A lime-juice-assisted route was used to synthesize CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles, which were subsequently immobilized in a chitosan matrix to obtain a magnetically recoverable CoFe₂O₄/chitosan (CoFe₂O₄/CS) nanocomposite for methylene blue (MB) removal under visible light. X-ray diffraction confirmed the cubic spinel phase and its retention after composite formation, while FTIR and XPS supported interfacial interactions between CoFe₂O₄ and the amino/hydroxyl functionalities of chitosan. Electron mi-croscopy showed predominantly spherical-to-quasi-spherical ferrite nanoparticles (approximately 10–20 nm) distributed on the polymer matrix with reduced agglom-eration. Chitosan incorporation decreased the BET surface area from 81.9 to 51.3 m² g⁻¹ and the saturation magnetization from 51.5 to 31.4 emu g⁻¹, but the nanocomposite remained readily separable with an external magnet. The optical band gap increased from 2.17 to 2.61 eV, whereas photoluminescence quenching was consistent with lower radiative charge-carrier recombination. At pH 9, an initial MB concentration of 20 mg L⁻¹, and a catalyst dosage of 0.7 g L⁻¹, the composite achieved 98.5% MB removal within 120 min under a 30 W visible-light LED, with a pseudo-first-order rate constant of 0.035 min⁻¹. Removal remained 90.3% after five cycles. Scavenger tests indicated that h⁺ and •OH were the dominant reactive species. These findings suggest the potential of bio-assisted CoFe₂O₄/CS nanocomposites as magnetically recoverable photocatalysts for wastewater treatment.

Review
Chemistry and Materials Science
Nanotechnology

Zhuohuan Li

,

Yuhang Zhang

,

Jintao Hao

,

Lan Yang

,

Zhiqiang Song

,

Mengxuan Liu

,

Bai Xiang

,

Jiening Dun

Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating degenerative joint disease urgently requiring disease-modifying therapies. Although multimodal RNA therapeutics (e.g., siRNA, miRNA, and mRNA) exhibit immense potential in reprogramming the complex OA pathological network, their clinical translation remains severely impeded by the hostile intra-articular microenvironment and rapid nucleolytic degradation. This review comprehensively evaluates the evolutionary trajectory of RNA delivery systems tailored for OA, advancing from conventional lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and natural exosomes to sophisticated hierarchical platforms, including lipo-exosome hybrids, stimuli-responsive metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and injectable hydrogels. These engineered vectors successfully breach cartilaginous barriers, enabling deep tissue penetration, prolonged joint retention, and microenvironment-responsive payload release. Finally, by synergizing advanced biomaterial engineering with precision genetic modulation, we outline the current translational bottlenecks and highlight future trajectories—such as the emerging role of artificial intelligence in rational nanocarrier design—to develop next-generation, dynamically responsive RNA therapeutics for authentic joint microenvironment remodeling.

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