Wiley

Advanced Materials Interfaces

Published by Wiley

Online ISSN: 2196-7350

Disciplines: Thin Films, surfaces & interfaces

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Potenial mass transport processes of hydrogen during electrolysis operation: mass transport of hydrogen into bulk solution, convection, diffusion and electroosmotic drag. δH2$\delta _{H_{2}}$ as concentration boundary layer of hydrogen, δm as membrane thickness, c* and p* as concentration and pressure at the catalyst particle, cc and cc as equilibrium concentration and pressure.
Calculated permeability of hydrogen in KOH solution between 0–2 M KOH and 20–80 °C from.[26,37,38]
Calculated solubilities of hydrogen in KOH solution between 0 ‐ 2 M KOH and 20–80 °C from,[²⁶] note the inversed temperature dependency compared to the permeability.
Measured volumetric electrolyte uptake at 25 °C, 60 °C, and 80 °C at 0.1 M KOH and 1 M KOH.
Measured hydration states at 25 °C, 60 °C, and 80 °C at 0.1 M KOH and 1 M KOH.

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Transport of Hydrogen Through Anion Exchange Membranes in Water Electrolysis

December 2024

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257 Reads

Andre Klinger

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Oscar Strobl

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Hannes Michaels

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Aims and scope


Advanced Materials Interfaces, part of the prestigious Advanced portfolio, is the open access journal for research on functional interfaces and surfaces and their specific applications, driving forward our understanding of interfacial processes.
As a truly interdisciplinary journal, we showcase a blend of physics, chemistry, materials science, (bio)technology and life sciences.
The Advanced portfolio from Wiley is a family of globally respected, high-impact journals that disseminates the best science from well-established and emerging researchers so they can fulfill their mission and maximize the reach of their scientific discoveries.

Recent articles


Stress Response of Aspergillus niger Spores to Copper Surfaces and the Implications for Antifungal Surface Functionalization
  • Article
  • Full-text available

March 2025

Stella Marie Timofeev

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Katharina Siems

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Daniel Wyn Müller

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[...]

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Stefan Leuko

Fungal contaminations pose a persistent challenge in the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and industry, primarily due to their environmental adaptability and increasing resistance to antifungal agents. In this study Aspergillus niger is utilized as model organism. This work evaluates copper, brass, and steel surfaces functionalized with ultrashort pulsed laser‐induced periodic surface structures (USP‐DLIP) designed as 3 and 9 µm topographies. Fungal spore viability assays show that 9 µm periodicities on copper surfaces achieve a 99% reduction in spore viability, indicating that increased copper ion release is a key factor in enhanced antifungal effectivity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirm substantial spore damage, linked to the viability testing and the measured copper ion release by inductively coupled plasma triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (ICP‐QQQ) spectrometry. Interestingly, 9 µm structured steel surfaces reveal a trend toward antifungal activity despite their inert nature. Whereas structured brass surfaces do not show significant improvement in antifungal activity. These findings suggest USP‐DLIP structuring on copper and stainless‐steel surfaces have considerable potential for antifungal applications, although interactions between surface structures, released ions, and fungal spores are highly complex. Yet, USP‐DLIP offers promising advantages for developing advanced antifungal materials.


Transparent Temperature Sensors for Photothermal Neuromodulation: Advances, Challenges, and Future Directions

Jee Woong Lee

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Junhee Lee

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Jungha Lee

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Hongki Kang

Photothermal neuromodulation, a rapidly advancing technique in neuroscience, has been introduced as an incredibly versatile platform for the in‐depth study of neural electrophysiological signals and the development of treatments for various neurological disorders. Particularly, nanomaterial‐based photothermal neuromodulation technologies have advantages compared to optogenetic stimulation methods, such as non‐genetic modification, minimally invasive, and reduced immune response. Photothermal neuromodulation research has introduced various nanomaterials and stimulation methods to regulate thermosensitive ion channels or modify cell membrane capacitance, enabling excitation and inhibition of neural activity. Recent advances in nanomaterials have significantly improved the precision and efficiency of photothermal neuromodulation, expanding its potential applications in neuroscience research. In the photothermal neuromodulation studies, different temperature measurement methods have been used but do not satisfy all the requirements necessary to analyze this phenomenon. An ideal temperature sensor for a photothermal neuromodulation study must have high transparency, high thermal sensitivity, and high spatial and temporal resolution. This review aims to cover the current status of thermally induced neuromodulation studies and the transparent temperature sensing methodologies that can be used for photothermal neuromodulation.


Chemically Reactive Thin Films: Dynamics and Stability

March 2025

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13 Reads

Tilman Richter

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Paolo Malgaretti

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Jens Harting

Catalyst particles or complexes suspended in liquid films can trigger chemical reactions leading to inhomogeneous concentrations of reactants and products in the film. It is demonstrated that the sensitivity of the liquid film's gas–liquid surface tension to these inhomogeneous concentrations strongly impacts the film stability. Using linear stability analysis, novel scenarios are identified in which the film can be either stabilized or destabilized by the reactions. Furthermore, it is found so far unrevealed rupture mechanisms which are absent in the chemically inactive case. The linear stability predictions are confirmed by numerical simulations, which also demonstrate that the shape of chemically active droplets can depart from the spherical cap and that unsteady states such as traveling and standing waves might appear. Finally, critically discussed the relevance of the predictions by showing that the range of the selected parameters is well accessible by typical experiments.


Carbon Dot‐Doped Silica Xerogel Phosphors Excited by Blue LEDs and LDs for the Brilliant White Lighting of Endoscope Tips

March 2025

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3 Reads

Hirohisa Iwabayashi

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Kenji Okada

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Arisa Fukatsu

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Masahide Takahashi

Endoscopy, a crucial, minimally invasive medical procedure, is poised for significant advancements in the integration of cutting‐edge optical technologies. Although rare‐earth‐doped single‐crystal phosphors offer high‐luminance white light at their endoscope tips via external excitation of a wavelength conversion element, their cost, toxicity, and complex fabrication processes limit their widespread adoption. This study presents a novel approach to the development of biocompatible, cost‐effective phosphors for endoscopic applications. By incorporating carbon dots into a silica glass (xerogel) matrix via a simple sol–gel process, transparent phosphor rods is successfully fabricated. The incorporation of carbon dots reinforced the monolithic phosphor, enabling the fabrication of centimeter‐scale monolithic phosphors. These carbon dot‐doped silica xerogel phosphors exhibits efficient blue‐to‐white light conversion, making them promising candidates for next‐generation endoscopes. This approach offers a sustainable, scalable solution for the development of advanced endoscopic devices with enhanced imaging capabilities and reduced environmental impacts.


Durable Bio‐Based Nanocomposite Coating on Urinary Catheters Prevents Early‐Stage CAUTI‐Associated Pathogenicity

March 2025

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23 Reads

Recurrent catheter‐associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) in catheterized patients, increase their morbidity and hospital stay at substantial costs for healthcare systems. Hence, novel and efficient strategies for mitigating CAUTIs are needed. In this work, a bio‐based nanocomposite coating is engineered with bactericidal, antibiofilm, and antioxidant properties on commercial silicone catheters using a combined ultrasound/nanoparticles (NPs) driven coating approach. This approach integrates citronellal‐loaded lauryl gallate NPs (CLG_NPs), as both antimicrobial and structural elements, with chitosan (CS), in a substrate‐independent sonochemical coating process. The hybrid CS/CLG_NPs coating shows pH‐dependent citronellal release, strong antibacterial activity toward the common CAUTI pathogens Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, alongside strong antioxidant activity, and biocompatibility to fibroblast and keratinocytes. Moreover, the nano‐enabled coating significantly mitigated bacterial biofilm formation after a week in a simulated human bladder environment, outperforming the commercially‐available silicone catheters. These results underscore the potential of the novel biopolymer nanocomposites obtained by ultrasound coating technology, offering a straightforward antimicrobial/antibiofilm solution for indwelling medical devices.


Heating Simulation of Film Heaters Fabricated by EHD Inkjet Printing for Satellite Applications

March 2025

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6 Reads

Film heaters have flexible characteristics and are used in various fields, including as important subsystems in satellite thermal control. These film heaters are produced using electrohydrodynamic (EHD) inkjet printing, which is a next‐generation inkjet printing technology. Ink applicable to printing is produced. These inks are composite materials with dispersed Ag and barium titanate (BTO). Because composite material inks have varying material properties depending on the amount added, it is necessary to derive the material property information. The material property information is derived from the heat generation characteristics by printing specific geometries with composite material inks. The derived material property information is applied to the simulation to compare the heat generation performances of the four circuit models. Through simulation, the shape is obtained that generates the best heat generation under the set conditions among the four circuit models. After that, the simulation results are verified by comparing them with the test results of the film heater. This study successfully demonstrates the simulation of various circuits and film heaters produced by EHD inkjet printing are expected to be applied in various fields.


Nano‐Octahedron Cobalt Oxide Decorated Graphene Nanocomposites for the Selective/Simultaneous Detection of Dopamine

March 2025

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6 Reads

Nano‐octahedron cobalt oxide decorated graphene nanocomposite is reported in this work for selective and simultaneous determination of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The composite is synthesized using a hydrothermal method and characterized to identify the crystal structure and its shapes. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images indicate the silhouette image of the nanocube decorated over graphene oxide. The Gr‐Co₃O₄/glassy carbon electrode (GCE) is utilized for the electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) studies revealed a significant breakthrough such as Gr‐Co₃O₄/GCE exhibited higher electrocatalytic activity for DA oxidation than the bare GCE. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) measurements demonstrated a detection limit of 0.09 µM for DA, with a linear response range from 1 to 500 µM. For uric acid (UA), the detection limit and linear range are estimated as 0.2 and 100 to 8000 µM, respectively. The sensor selectively detects DA in the presence of UA is confirmed, with a peak separation of 250 mV between DA and UA. The reliability of the sensor is validated through using human serum specimens, paving the way for exciting potential applications in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.


Carbonization Tuned Core‐Shell Fe3O4@C Nanostructures with Enhanced Electromagnetic Wave Absorption

March 2025

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12 Reads

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1 Citation

With the advent of high‐power electronic devices, communication satellites, and military radar systems, electromagnetic (EM) waves have caused significant pollution. In this work, hollow Fe3O4@C (H‐FO@C) composites are synthesized by employing an in situ polymerization and carbonization treatment. Effects of carbonization temperature on electromagnetic wave absorption of core‐shell structured H‐FO@C composites are symmetrically analyzed, and the impedance matching and attenuation ability are improved significantly by controlling carbonization temperature. The reflection loss (RL) and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of H‐FO@C composites carbonized at 650 °C are improved to −51.85 dB and 5.36 GHz (thickness 2.1 mm), respectively. When the thickness of composites increases from 2.1 to 2.4 mm, the EAB reaches 6.24 GHz. According to CST Studio Suit, the radar cross section (RCS) reduction value can be 24.26 dB m² for H‐FO@C composites. Both experiment and simulation results confirm that the H‐FO@C composites possess excellent EWA performance. This work provides a new way for advancing EWA materials.


Assessing the Safety Margin for Micromotion‐Induced Strain at Electrode–Tissue Interface: A Finite Element Analysis via COMSOL

March 2025

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19 Reads

Brain movement significantly impacts the biocompatibility of neural probes, primarily due to continuous loading and strain on neural tissue. This study investigates the strain profile at the electrode–tissue interface under various brain displacements—vertical, lateral, diagonal, and torque—across different brain models (linear elastic, hyperelastic, and viscoelastic). The safety margin for tissue damage is assessed by evaluating a 5% strain threshold using two probe widths (30 µm and 100 µm) in tethered and floating configurations. The probe dimensions are informed by previously developed devices implanted in rats for 12 weeks, allowing to correlate the findings with existing immunohistochemical data. A comprehensive simulation studies accounting for various conditions, such as different brain displacements and physics, has not been reported elsewhere. These results challenge the conventional 5% strain threshold for tissue damage, revealing that strains below this critical limit may still pose risks depending on probe geometry and brain model. Furthermore, these simulations underscore the necessity of size‐dependent micromotion models for accurate predictions in untethered conditions. This work highlights the feasibility of integrating immunohistological data into simulation studies, offering valuable insights for researchers while minimizing the need for extensive animal testing during initial probe design phases.


3D Printed Magnetic Origami Scaffolds for Guided Tissue Assembly

March 2025

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6 Reads

A 3D‐printed origami‐inspired magnetic scaffold has been developed to investigate the influence of physical cues on guided cellular proliferation in a 3D microenvironment. Microscale channels are first constructed and populated with NIH/3T3 fibroblast and/or A549 cancer cell clusters that are initially bioprinted within the channels. Once these channels are fully populated, a permanent magnet is applied to fold the scaffolds. By varying the channel width and incorporating an intermediate extracellular matrix hydrogel (IE) layer along with origami folding, the scaffold provides geometric and gravitational cues to influence cellular proliferation. In both monoculture and coculture, i) cells tend to proliferate more in a tapered manner, ii) scaffolds with enhanced media flow lead to a higher volume of cell growth, and iii) cells form homogeneous distributions under gravity after dispersion. In coculture, the expansion of fibroblast clusters within their seeded channels increased, facilitating the proliferation of cancer cell clusters into the non‐seeded channels. This origami scaffold offers valuable insights into tissue engineering and cancer research, serving as a versatile tool for examining cellular interactions and growth dynamics.


Self‐Supporting Graphene Foam for the Removal of Chlorine from Water

March 2025

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11 Reads

Porous materials based on graphene attract attention due to their potential applications as sorbents or catalytic materials. However, achieving a freestanding structure without the use of additional bonding agents remains a major challenge. This article presents a self‐supporting graphene foam fabricated from an aqueous suspension of graphene oxide and hydrazine. The porous structure is obtained by the reaction of graphene oxide with hydrazine vapor. The foam is subjected to structural and chemical composition studies. Microscopic investigations, BrunauerEmmettTeller (BET), and X‐ray tomography are carried out to characterize its internal structure, including the nature and size of the pores, and to determine the specific surface area. The strength parameters of the foams are then measured, i.e., Young's modulus, tensile strength, and compressive strength. Next, tests are performed for functional applications. The ability of the foam to remove free chlorine from water is investigated. This ability far exceeds that of activated carbon (AC). The foam removes 97% of chlorine at the same time, whereas AC removes only 38%. The sorption dynamics are almost six times higher than those of AC. Cyclic sorption studies demonstrate that the foam can be used multiple times for this purpose.


Nanostructured 316L Stainless Steel Stent Surfaces Improve Corrosion Resistance, and Enhance Endothelization and Hemocompatibility

March 2025

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38 Reads

Surface properties are crucial for ensuring the long‐term safety and effectiveness of cardiovascular stents. This study comprehensively investigates the influence of nanostructured 316L stainless steel (SS) surfaces on corrosion, endothelization, endothelial cell functions, and platelet interactions for cardiovascular stent applications. Toward this goal, nanodimple (ND) and nanopit (NP) morphologies, with feature sizes ranging from 25 to 220 nm, are fabricated on 316L SS surfaces via anodization. The nanostructured surfaces, regardless of their morphology or feature size, enhance the corrosion resistance of 316L SS. In vitro results show that human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) responded favorably to the nanostructured topography, demonstrating improved proliferation on the ND and NP surfaces. Additionally, higher HUVEC migration, enhanced angiogenesis‐related cellular functions and the upregulation of angiogenesis‐related genes are observed for the nanostructured surfaces. Furthermore, all nanostructured surfaces, independent of morphology and feature size, significantly reduced platelet adhesion and hemolysis rates. Notably, the ND200 surfaces, with 200 nm sized ND features, exhibited superior corrosion resistance, enhanced in vitro HUVEC functions, and improved hemocompatibility compared to the conventionally‐used 316L SS surfaces. Overall, the fabrication of nanostructures on 316L SS offers an innovative approach that may address clinical complications such as poor endothelization, and thrombus formation.


Scaled‐Up Graphene Growth Through Chemical Vapor Deposition Over Large‐Area Liquid Cu Catalysts

March 2025

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8 Reads

This study scales up the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process for graphene growth using CH₄ and H₂ mixtures on large molten Cu substrates using a liquid metal catalyst (LMCat) reactor. In situ optical microscopy and ex situ Raman spectroscopy reveal key differences from previous studies on smaller molten Cu surfaces. Graphene grown on large molten Cu exhibits improved quality and uniformity at low [CH₄]/[H₂] ratios. A shift in the growth mechanism is observed: at low [CH₄]/[H₂], single‐front growth yields high‐quality graphene, whereas higher ratios cause multiple nuclei to merge, forming a nucleation‐flow‐merger pattern. Raman spectroscopy confirms uniform graphene quality at low [CH₄]/[H₂]. At intermediate [CH₄]/[H₂], few‐layer graphene grows uniformly on larger Cu substrates. Finite element analysis using COMSOL Multiphysics shows that efficient heating of reaction gases by molten Cu enhances graphene growth. An empirical model, developed from experimental data, reliably predicts the fastest graphene growth on large liquid Cu substrates. These findings address critical challenges and advance the feasibility of continuous, industrial‐scale graphene production using molten metal catalysts.


X‐Ray and Electron Spectroscopy of the CdS/(Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 Interface With RbF Treatment

March 2025

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19 Reads

The chemical and electronic structure of the CdS/(Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 (CdS/ACIGSe) interface for thin‐film solar cells, involving an absorber with a bulk [Ag]/([Ag]+[Cu]) (AAC) ratio of 0.06, a state‐of‐the‐art RbF post‐deposition treatment (PDT), and a chemical‐bath deposited CdS buffer layer, is studied. To gain a detailed and depth‐resolved picture of the CdS/ACIGSe interface, synchrotron‐ and laboratory‐based hard X‐ray, soft X‐ray, and UV photoelectron spectroscopy, inverse photoemission spectroscopy, and X‐ray emission spectroscopy are combined. Compared to the bulk of the absorber, a Cu‐ and Ga‐poor ACIGSe surface is found, with a slightly increased AAC ratio. Strong evidence of a Rb–In–Se species (possibly with some Ag) at the absorber surface is compiled, with a corresponding band gap of 2.79 ± 0.12 eV. This finding is in clear contrast to comparable Ag‐free Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorbers with RbF‐PDT. The Rb–In–Se surface species is not removed by the (wet‐chemical) CdS deposition process, while some Se diffuses into the CdS layer and segregates at its surface. The CdS buffer layer shows a band gap of 2.48 ± 0.12 eV, and a cliff (≈ −0.4 eV) is determined in the conduction band alignment at the interface between the Rb–In–Se species and the CdS buffer.


Electroless Plating on Polymer Surfaces: Comprehensive Review of Mechanism, Process, Analysis, and Future Applications

March 2025

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83 Reads

Electroless plating is a solution‐based metal deposition technique through redox reaction, without external power. Due to its simple, versatile, and low‐cost process, coupled with high compatibility with various metals, electroless plating has become a key technology in many industrial fields such as electronics, automotive, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. Recent advances in electroless plating have enabled sophisticated plating on polymers and three‐dimensional surfaces, making it a prominent technology in emerging fields such as selective laser sintering, additive manufacturing, and wearable technology. This review provides a comprehensive overview of electroless plating, from its core theory to the latest research trends. Initially, the detailed mechanism of electroless plating is described, followed by an examination of the plating process. Then, the compositions of a typical electroless plating bath are introduced, and the critical operating parameters are categorized. Next, the evaluation factors of electroless plated surfaces are discussed, along with the current limitations of electroless plating technology. Finally, the various applications of electroless plating studied to date are presented, and future directions for this technology are suggested.


Schematic of the structure and construction of spinel/corundum interfaces. a) The orientation relationship of the spinel and corundum bilayer considered here. Note that these are orthonormal directions, as our simulation supercells are orthorhombic. b) Legend of the color scheme for atom species. c) Surface structure of corundum viewed down the [0001] direction. The basal unit vectors of corundum are indicated by the red arrows. d) Surface structure of spinel viewed down the <111> direction. In both (c) and (d), the structural motif of the cation sublattice (Cr in Cr2O3 and Fe in FeCr2O4) are highlighted by the black hexagons. e) The structure of corundum where the [0001] direction is up along the page. The alternating layers of Cr and O in the Cr2O3 corundum are indicated. f) The structure of spinel where the <111> direction is up along the page. The alternating layers of O and metal are indicated. Note that the metal layers alternate between being pure Cr and mixed Fe‐Cr‐Fe layers. The lines in (e,f) highlight cleave planes that maintain local stoichiometry: solid lines are cleave planes that result in O terminated surfaces and dashed lines indicate cleave planes that result in metal terminated surfaces. g) Schematic of the layer stacking in one supercell constructed accounting for the constraints described in the text. h) Schematic of the other supercell and associated layer stacking. The different interfaces are indicated with the notation described in the text.
The atomic structure of FeCr2O4/Cr2O3 interfaces. a–c) The structure of one interface, Ic:Crs:FeO$I^{s:FeO}_{c:Cr}$, a) as constructed, b) after minimization, and c) after the MMC procedure described in the text. The atom colors follow the same scheme as indicated in Figure 1b. The misfit dislocation structure, as identified by visual inspection, is highlighted in (b). Two different types of coherent terraces are present, and are identified by the shaded triangles. The green region has a more ordered atomic arrangement than the red region. d) The atomic structure of the Ic:Os:Cr$I^{s:Cr}_{c:O}$ interface after minimization and MMC. e) The atomic structure of the Ic:Crs:CrO$I^{s:CrO}_{c:Cr}$ interface. f) The atomic structure of the Ic:Os:Fe$I^{s:Fe}_{c:O}$ interface in which a region that is Cr rich is highlighted in red and one that is Fe rich is highlighted in green. In this last figure, the shapes are not meant to imply that the interface has any specific structure, they are included to simply highlight regions of one chemistry versus another. Note that all of these representations have been expanded by a factor of 2×2 in the interface plane to better show the structure. The actual simulation cell is highlighted by the blue rectangle in (a).
Defect thermodynamics near FeCr2O4/Cr2O3 interfaces. a) Fe vacancy, b) Cr vacancy, and c) O vacancy. For each defect, results from both simulation supercells are shown in purple and teal, respectively. The associated interface labels, as highlighted in Figure 1 and Figure 2, are also provided. In the case of the Fe vacancy, individual points as a function of distance are provided while for the Cr and O vacancies, violin plots showing the distribution of energies in each atomic layer are shown. Note that a violin plot is less useful for the Fe vacancy as the layers become less distinct near the two interfaces, so that data is better represented by points. d–g) Variations in the energy of an O vacancy in the d) Ic:Crs:FeO$I^{s:FeO}_{c:Cr}$, e) Ic:Os:Cr$I^{s:Cr}_{c:O}$, f) Ic:Crs:CrO$I^{s:CrO}_{c:Cr}$, and g) Ic:Os:Fe$I^{s:Fe}_{c:O}$ interfaces. In all four cases, the results have been replicated in the in‐plane dimension by a factor of 2×2 for enhanced visual clarity as compared to the original computational cell.
Trajectories, resolved every 25 fs, after MD simulations at 2500 K. a) The trajectory of all atoms in the simulation cell during the second 2 ns of a 4 ns molecular dynamics simulation for the supercell containing the Ic:Crs:CrO$I^{s:CrO}_{c:Cr}$ and Ic:Os:Fe$I^{s:Fe}_{c:O}$ interfaces. The color of the line correlates with the time of that segment of trajectory—dark colors are earlier, light colors are later in time. The view is a cross section of the structure and has been replicated by a factor of 2 in the interface normal direction for visual clarity. b–d) The trajectory of all atoms corresponding to regions of the structure highlighted by the grey boxes in a) observed in plan view (i.e., from the top): (b) atomic trajectories at the Ic:Crs:CrO$I^{s:CrO}_{c:Cr}$ interface, c) trajectories across the corundum layer of the structure, and d) trajectories at the Ic:Os:Fe$I^{s:Fe}_{c:O}$ interface.
Further examination of the behavior observed in the MD simulations. a) A histogram showing the displacement of Cr atoms over the course of the simulation, where time is indicated by the color of the histogram. The curves show the fraction of mobile Cr atoms that moved by the indicated distance at the given time, where mobile means that the Cr atom moved by at least 2.22 Å at some point in the simulation. b) Mean squared displacement (MSD) of the Cr atoms over the course of the simulation as a function of time for atoms within the two interfacial planes (x and y components) and across the corundum layer (z component). c,d) Cr defects, as identified by the reference lattice method[³⁹] in c) cross section and d) plan view. Darker spheres correspond to interstitials relative to the minimized structure and lighter spheres are vacancies. In these last two images, the structure has been replicated by a factor of 2 in the in‐plane dimensions for better visual clarity. This snapshot was taken at 2 ns; the structure was minimized to eliminate thermal noise before the defects were identified.
On the Structure–Property Relationship of Semi‐Coherent FeCr2O4/Cr2O3 Spinel/Corundum Interfaces

March 2025

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6 Reads

Oxide heterointerfaces are extremely common in both natural and artificial composite structures, including corroded structural materials. Often, key properties such as segregation and atomic transport are dictated by the structure of these interfaces. However, despite this critical link, very few heterointerfaces have been studied in any detail at the atomic scale. Here, one important oxide heterointerface is examined, between spinel and corundum, using the chemical system FeCr2O4/Cr2O3 as a representative and technologically important case. Using atomistic simulation techniques, it is found that the structure, particularly the local chemistry, of the interface depends on the crystal chemistry at the interface. This atomic and chemical structure further impacts important properties such as defect segregation and mass transport. It is found that defects can nucleate at some regions of these interfaces and migrate back and forth across the corundum layer, suggesting high atomic mobility that may be important for the evolution of spinel/corundum composite structures in extreme conditions.


a) STM topographic image of monolayers of CO adsorbed on Ag(111) surface. (100 × 100 nm2$\rm nm^2$, sample bias V=10 mV, It=2 pA.) b) Error image (tunneling current image) acquired simultaneously with (a). c) The error image of twin domains marked with + and ‐ for different orientations. d) FFT image corresponding to (a).
a) Constant height AFM image of CO monolayer on Ag(111) surface with a CO‐terminated tip. 15 × 15 nm2$\rm nm^2$, V=50 mV, resonance frequency f0=989 kHz, effective stiffness 2k = 1.3 MN/m, oscillation amplitude A=100 pm, and color code; Δf=–1.5 Hz (dark) to Δf=‐0.7 Hz (bright). b) An autocorrelation image of (a). c) FFT image corresponding to (a). d) The structure model of CO monolayer on Ag(111) substrate with the higher‐order commensurate. e) The proposed structure model stabilized by moving some CO molecules to the near top site from the model in (d). The molecular axis is allowed to tilt from the vertical direction of the surface. White (gray) circles represent CO molecules near (away from) Ag top sites.
a) Structural model of the topmost surface of Ag(111). Adsorption sites for a CO molecule are shown. b) Computational model for adsorption of a CO molecule on Ag(111) surface. c) The interaction potential of a CO‐CO pair without a substrate calculated by vdW‐DFT. d) An approximate model in which the 2 × 2 of CO and the 7×7$\sqrt {7}\times \sqrt {7}$ of Ag are higher‐order commensurate. e–g) Approximate models obtained by stabilizing with vdW‐DFT, where the molecular axes are tilted from the vertical direction of the surface. h) A model in which the 4 × 4 of CO and the 31×31$\sqrt {31}\times \sqrt {31}$ of Ag are higher‐order commensurate. i) A model obtained by stabilizing with vdW‐DFT from the model in (h), where the molecular axes are tilted from the vertical direction of the surface.
a) Constant height STM image of CO monolayer on Ag(111) surface. 15 × 15 nm2$\rm nm^2$, V=100 mV, and color code: It=0 (dark) to It=900 fA (bright). b) FFT image corresponding to (a). c) Constant height STM image of the area enclosed by the square in Figure 1b. 20 × 20 nm2$\rm nm^2$, V=5 mV, and color code; It=0 (dark) to It=24 pA (bright). d) FFT image corresponding to (c). The tip state is a) metallic and c) CO‐terminated. e) The same structure model as Figure 2e to show the STM image pattern. White (gray) circles represent Ag atoms far from (close to) the adsorbed CO molecules.
Structure Identification of CO Monolayer on Ag(111) Using Atomic Force Microscopy

March 2025

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11 Reads

Local structure analysis in physically adsorbed small molecule systems on metal surfaces remains challenging. The structural models of monolayers formed by weakly adsorbed CO molecules on Ag(111) surfaces have long been controversial. In this study, the structure of the CO monolayer is determined through high‐resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM) observations at 4.5 K. Contrary to a previously proposed model based on scanning tunneling microscopy experiments [Phys. Rev. B 71, 153405 (2005)], it is found that the CO monolayer adopts a close‐packed structure. Additionally, a superstructure associated with higher‐order commensurate between the 31×3131×31\sqrt {31} \times \sqrt {31} lattice of Ag(111) and the 4 × 4 lattice of CO is identified. A structural model, involving the tilt of the CO molecular axis, is proposed based on AFM observations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Thermal fluctuations of the CO molecules are also observed, and the energy barrier derived from the hopping rate aligns with estimates from DFT calculations. These results indicate that AFM is powerful for atomic‐level analysis of physisorption systems.


Multi‐functional EV crosslinkers are successfully prepared and are versatile for multiple crosslinking chemistries in constructing hydrogels and microgels. a) Schematic of multifunctional EVs formed through hydrophobic interactions of amphiphilic DSPE‐PEG‐R' inserted into the EV bilayer membrane. b) Flow cytometry analysis of unmodified EVs, EV‐SH, and EV‐FITC after a 0.5‐h incubation. c) Flow cytometry analysis of EV‐SH after different incubation times (0, 0.5, and 24 h). d) Size of unmodified EVs and EV‐SH. e) Zeta potential of unmodified EVs and EV‐SH. f) Schematic of the crosslinked hydrogel network formed by the thiol‐ene reaction between EV‐SH and 8‐arm PEG‐Nb under UV light (365 nm). g) Images verifying gelation of EV‐crosslinked hydrogels via thiol‐norbornene, thiol‐maleimide, and hydrazine‐aldehyde. h) The percentage of EV‐SH crosslinker incorporated within the hydrogel network with 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer, was determined by measuring the protein content both within the EVs added to crosslink the hydrogel and in the leachate washed out from the hydrogel. Results are reported as the mean ± standard deviation. Statistics were calculated by one‐way ANOVA with pairwise comparisons in b, c (n = 3); by one‐tailed unpaired t‐test in d, e (n = 3).
EV crosslinkers exhibit comparable crosslinking efficiency across various chemistries compared to traditional elastic crosslinkers, with tunable mechanical properties in the resulting hydrogels. Rheological testing showing a) storage modulus of hydrogels crosslinked via thiol‐norbornene and SPAAC crosslinking chemistries, with 8‐arm PEG‐Nb and 4‐arm PEG‐DBCO macromers, and EV‐SH and EV‐azide crosslinkers, respectively; b) Storage modulus of hydrogels crosslinked with EV‐SH and 8‐arm PEG‐SH, using 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer; c) Storage modulus of EV‐SH crosslinked hydrogels with varying concentrations of 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer (3%, 5%, and 8 wt.%); d) Storage modulus of EV‐SH crosslinked hydrogels with different molecular weights of PEG segments in DSPE‐PEG‐SH (2000 and 5000 Da), using 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer; e) in vivo stability of EV‐crosslinked hydrogels compared to PEG‐SH crosslinked hydrogels with 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer, fluorescently labeled with Alexa Fluor 647‐NHS ester, assessed by subcutaneous implantation in mice and in vivo live fluorescence imaging. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Statistical analysis was performed using one‐way ANOVA with pairwise comparisons in c (n = 3) and one‐tailed unpaired t‐test in a, b, d (n = 3).
EV‐crosslinked hydrogels exhibit stress‐relaxation properties, promoting the proliferation and spreading of encapsulated cells. a) Schematic diagram illustrating the stretchability of EVs within EV‐crosslinked hydrogels, enhancing cell spreading compared to elastic hydrogels, where cells are restricted within the polymeric network. b) Normalized stress curves and half‐relaxation times of hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH and EV‐SH with 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer. c) Z‐projection confocal images showing the cytoskeleton of mMSCs on day 3, encapsulated within hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH and EV‐SH, with 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer, using TRITC Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Scale bar, 100 µm. d) Bar graphs quantifying cell proliferation and spreading across the different groups. e) Z‐projection confocal images showing the cytoskeleton of mMSCs on day 3, encapsulated within hydrogels crosslinked by 8‐arm PEG‐Nb macromer and different concentrations of EV‐SH, using TRITC Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Scale bar, 100 µm. f) Bar graphs quantifying cell proliferation and spreading across the different groups. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Statistical analysis was performed using a one‐tailed unpaired t‐test in d, f. (n = 3 for cell proliferation and cell volume quantification using three scaffolds).
EV crosslinkers enable efficient protein delivery into the hydrogel network while preserving protein bioactivity. a) Schematic diagram showing the synthesis of DSPE‐PEG‐Protein, where DSPE‐PEG‐NHS couples with the protein via hydrophobic interactions. b) Gel electrophoresis results of BSA and DSPE‐PEG‐BSA, verifying the successful synthesis of DSPE‐PEG‐Protein. c) Schematic diagram illustrating the formation of SH‐EV‐Protein complexes through the co‐incubation of DSPE‐PEG‐Protein and DSPE‐PEG‐SH with EVs. d) Hydrogels crosslinked using SH‐EV‐BSA via thiol‐ene photopolymerization and rheological testing showing the storage modulus of hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH and SH‐EV‐BSA. e, f) Fluorescent images and quantification of GFP fluorescence signals in hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH and SH‐EV‐GFP. Scale bar, 100 µm. g) Schematic showing the distribution of SH‐EV‐VEGF promoting HUVEC clustering and sprouting (indications of angiogenesis). h) Z‐projection confocal images of HUVEC growth on day 5 in hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH, EV‐SH, and SH‐EV‐VEGF using TRITC Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Scale bar, 100 µm. i) Vascular sprout length and j) cell cluster analysis in hydrogels crosslinked by PEG‐SH, EV‐SH, and SH‐EV‐VEGF. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Statistical analysis was performed using a one‐tailed unpaired t‐test in d, f (n = 3) and one‐way ANOVA with pairwise comparisons in i, j (n = 10‐15).
Extracellular Vesicle Crosslinkers Constructing Hydrogels with Stress‐Relaxation and Bioactive Protein Modification

March 2025

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5 Reads

Extracellular vesicle (EV)‐incorporated hydrogels have emerged as promising scaffolds for tissue repair due to their ability to present biological cues. However, the encapsulation efficiency and distribution of EVs within hydrogels still require improvement to enhance tissue healing outcomes. In this study, a novel approach is developed that uses EVs as crosslinkers for hydrogel formation, ensuring that EVs are present at every crosslinking point and thereby achieving both functional incorporation and uniform distribution of EVs. Amphiphilic molecules with various functional groups are successfully inserted into the EV membrane, enabling crosslinking with hydrogel macromers, which is versatile for multiple crosslinking chemistries. EV‐crosslinked hydrogels exhibited faster stress relaxation properties due to EV stretchability compared to hydrogels crosslinked with traditional elastic polymers, promoting enhanced cell spreading and proliferation. Additionally, it is demonstrated that EV crosslinkers could present proteins throughout the hydrogel network while maintaining their biological activity. Using VEGF‐loaded EV crosslinkers, induced endothelial cell clustering and sprouting are successfully, indicating early angiogenic responses. These results underscore the potential of EV‐crosslinked hydrogels for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, offering tunable mechanical properties and the capacity for effective protein delivery.


Subsurface State Bilayer in Tetragonal Ferroelectric BaTiO3

March 2025

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11 Reads

The interface is an issue in the ferroelectric field effect transistor. In this work, the study presents a combined characterization of the subsurface structure and the electric polarization of (001)‐oriented and poled BaTiO3 crystal sheets. The first layer is found from the last ≈1.22 Å of the crystal to its Ti─O surface, which holds the empty or partly‐filled pseudo excited states of high energy levels, to set up the potential well and trap compensation charges. The second layer from ≈2.45 to ≈1.75 Å beneath the surface, accommodates the distorted lattice, and particularly, the pairs of small polarons and O vacancies at the pseudo ground state and the pseudo excited states of low energy levels. As a concreteness of the depolarization field, the second layer generates the subsurface polaron‐type polarization of reverse ferroelectricity. Between these two layers, there is a gap of states with a thickness ≈0.53 Å. The state bilayer demonstrates a method to quantify the interface, proves the parasitic capacitance, validates the parallel‐plate capacitor configuration, and gives a telltale sign to the enhanced ferroelectric polarization, the surface proximity property, the flexoelectric effect, the insulating failure, and the photocatalytic phenomena.


Fabrication of a superhydrophobic surface on quartz glass. a) Schematic of the processing flow. b) Scanning electron microscopy image of silica nanowires grown on a quartz substrate. Scale bar: 1 µm. Inset: enlarged view of the nanowires. Scale bar: 100 nm c) Contact between a water droplet and the superhydrophobic glass surface produced after silane coating (water contact angle = 155°). d) Optical microscopy image of a sliding water droplet on the superhydrophobic plate surface (no traces of the droplet were seen during motion). Scale bar: 100 µm. e) Relationship between water droplet volume and sliding angle (larger droplets exhibited a lower sliding angle).
Electrostatic‐force‐induced movement of pure water droplets on insulating superhydrophobic glass. a) Photographs illustrating the movement of a water droplet across the fabricated superhydrophobic glass and the collapse of a water droplet on a normal glass substrate. b) Water droplets of various sizes were controlled using the PTFE rod. c) Movement of droplets along a programmed path. Scale bars: 5 mm.
Calculation and simulation of the electrostatic force. Variation in the attractive electrostatic force and sliding resistance with distance for a) 5 µL and b) 50 µL droplets. When the distance between a water droplet and a PTFE rod is less than that indicated by the red dashed line, the PTFE rod can modulate the movement of the droplet. c) Simulation of the electrostatic potential and electric field between the water droplet and the PTFE rod. d) Traces of the movements of 10 µL water droplets oscillated at the same frequency as the PTFE rod by the electrostatic attractive force.
Mixing and oscillation of triboelectric manipulation. a) PTFE rod driving a large water droplet to capture another droplet. b) Droplets being attracted to each other over 20 mm. c) Movement of a droplet containing Ag nanoparticles toward a droplet containing R6G molecules on account of attraction, resulting in a mixed droplet. d) Oscillation of a water droplet by the PTFE rod. e) Images of a water droplet during oscillation. f) Recorded position, and calculated velocity, and acceleration for a droplet. g) Comparison of electrostatically driven droplet acceleration on solid surfaces with previous studies. h) Raman spectra of R6G molecules with and without Ag nanoparticles.
Sustained operation of droplet manipulation. a) Water contact angle versus oscillation time. b) Photographs illustrating the sustained control of droplet movement through electrostatic attraction for over 20 min. c) Schematic and d) photographs of a water droplet immersed in hexane, which was driven by the PTFE rod through electrostatic attraction. Scale bars: 5 mm.
Effective Manipulation of Water Droplets on Open Superhydrophobic Glass Surfaces by Using a Triboelectrically Charged Polytetrafluoroethylene Rod on the Back Side of These Surfaces

March 2025

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32 Reads

Effectively controlling the motion of water droplets on open surfaces is crucial in digital microfluidics. Therefore, this study develops a triboelectric method that involves using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rod on the back side of a substrate for controlling the movement of water droplets on the opposite side of the substrate. Glass substrates with silica nanowires are prepared, and surface treatment is then performed to ensure superhydrophobicity. Results indicate that the triboelectric static electricity generated on a PTFE rod is sufficient for driving water droplets on the prepared substrates. The droplets can be controlled to move along specific trajectories over an extended period without any water being lost; the droplets’ speed and acceleration can exceed 100 mm s⁻¹ and 10 000 mm s⁻², respectively. Droplets with various volumes can be controlled using the aforementioned method, which enables the method to be effective even when droplets mix to produce larger droplets. Moreover, water droplets can be collected over long distances by leveraging electrostatic forces, and the proposed method is effective even in hexane solvents. Finally, Raman signal detection can be enhanced for trace molecules by mixing water droplets containing silver nanoparticles and rhodamine 6G molecules after rapidly oscillating them by using the proposed method.


a) Top and side views of the DyPc2 molecular structure. b) STM topographic image of the DyPc2 SAM on the Pb(111) island, with scattered DyPc2 molecules on top. Three types of molecules are marked by A, B, and C with green circles, respectively. Vbias = ‐0.7 V, Itunnel = 37 pA. c) Schematic molecular model for the STM image of the white square box in d) showing the azimuthal angle between adjacent molecules is 6°. Red and yellow for the two differently oriented molecules A, and blue for the special molecule B. Molecule B has an azimuthal angle of 6° with the nearest neighbor A, and has the same orientation with the next‐nearest neighbor A. d) Magnified image shows the details of the special molecule B and the normal molecule A. The numbers from 1 through 8 indicate the eight lobes of one DyPc2 molecule. Vbias = ‐1.0 V, Itunnel = 21 pA. The colors of the dashed lines correspond to the colors in the schematic molecular model.
a–c) STM images of three types of molecules and the corresponding dI/dV spectra under the magnetic fields of d–f) B = 0 T and (g–i) B = 11 T at 0.4 K, respectively. All the spectra are measured at the lobes. The red dashed lines mark the energy of the quasiparticle resonances at eV  = ± Δ, and the red arrows indicate the positions of the magnetic impurity‐induced bound states at eV  =  ± (ɛ + Δ), where ɛ corresponds to the excitation energy of the bound states. Image sizes: (a–c) 3 nm × 3 nm. STM imaging conditions: (a) Vbias = 0.8 V, Itunnel = 20 pA. (b) Vbias = 0.8 V, Itunnel = 20 pA. (c) Vbias = –1.0 V, Itunnel = 19 pA.
a) Constant current magnified image of the special molecule B. Vbias = 10 mV, Itunnel = 21 pA. b) Constant height dI/dV mapping of (a) taken at 1 mV, and Itunnel = 9 pA. c) The dI/dV spectrum under the magnetic field of B = 1 T (black curve) and the fit using a Fano function (red curve).
The spatial distribution of spin density of a) free DyPc2 and b) adsorbed DyPc2. The blue and purple colors represent the spin‐up and spin‐down density, respectively. The isosurface value is set to 5 × 10⁻⁴ e Bohr⁻³. c) Side view of the differential charge distribution in adsorbed DyPc2. Yellow (green) isosurface corresponds to the increase (decrease) of the charge after adsorption. The isosurface level is 3 × 10⁻⁴ e Bohr⁻³. d) Calculated PDOS projected on the pz orbitals of C and N atoms in of the free DyPc2 (upper panel) and adsorbed (lower panel) DyPc2 molecule, respectively.
a–c) STM images showing the conversion of DyPc2 molecules from B to A. Molecules B1 and B2 can be switched to normal molecules A by applying a voltage pulse of 2 V over their centers. Vbias = 0.8 V, Itunnel = 20 pA.
Detection and Manipulation of Interaction Between Magnetic DyPc2 Molecules and Superconducting Pb(111) Surface

March 2025

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28 Reads

Lanthanide double‐decker phthalocyanine (LnPc2) complexes are highly coveted for their prospective uses in ultrahigh‐density data storage and quantum computing. Notably, the quantum spin systems comprising these complexes and superconducting substrates exhibit unique quantum magnetic interactions. Through scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS) experiments, the interaction between the magnetic double‐decker DyPc2 molecules and the superconducting Pb(111) substrate is investigated. Three distinct adsorption patterns of DyPc2 on Pb(111) are experimentally observed. Combined with DFT calculations, it is found that the ligand spin of the normal DyPc2 molecules in the self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) is quenched, which is attributed to strong charge transfer from Pb(111). However, special DyPc2 molecules embedded in the SAM maintain ligand spin due to weak charge transfer, forming a complex quantum spin system with the superconducting substrate. Similarly, DyPc2 molecules located on the second layer exhibit the same behavior. Under zero magnetic field, the Yu–Shiba–Rusinov (YSR) resonances are observed within the superconducting energy gap of both spin quantum systems. The Kondo resonance and the superconducting pairing occur at similar energy scales, indicating their coexistence and competition. This ultimately results in a Kondo‐screened state. By controlling the sample bias, the special molecule can be switched to a normal molecule.


(a) Side view, (b) electronic structure, (c) Si‐surface and C‐surface, and (d) high symmetry points of atom adsorption on 4H‐SiC substrate.
(a) adsorption energies of single Ga and N atoms adsorbed on 4H‐SiC. 3D charge density difference of the (b) single atom adsorption and (c) Ga‐N co‐adsorption. (d) Ead, dh, (e) Bader charge of Ga‐N co‐adsorption. The projected density of state (PDOS) of pristine (f) Si‐surface and (g) with Ga‐N‐co‐adsorption, respectively.
Nucleation energies of tripodal GaN3 and Ga3N and hexacyclic ring GaN on the substrate of (a) Si‐surface and (b) C‐surface, respectively.
(a) Interfacial atomic configuration and (b) formation energies of GaN monolayer epitaxial growth on SiC substrate. (c) GaN monolayer epitaxy at Si‐HT, Si‐TM, C‐MT and C‐TH, respectively. The projected density of state (PDOS) of (d) Si‐HT with AB stacking and (e) Si‐MT with ABC stacking, respectively.
Geometrical structures of (a) Si‐HT and (b) C‐MT with multilayers epitaxial GaN. (c) The Efor of different configurations with multilayers epitaxial GaN layers. (d) Schematic of the band bending at GaN surface. (e‐f) The band structure and (g‐h) projected density of state (PDOS) of (e,g) layered GaN and (f,h) novel 4|8 GaN, respectively. (i) The band gap of layered GaN and novel 4|8 GaN as a function of the epitaxial GaN layers.
Theoretical Study of the Kinetics Mechanism Underlying GaN Epitaxy Growth on 4H‐SiC Substrate

March 2025

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9 Reads

Although GaN has successfully epitaxy growth on 4H‐SiC substrate, its kinetics mechanism, and how to control the morphology and polarity of epitaxial GaN have not been revealed yet. Herein, by investigating the epitaxial process of GaN growth on 4H‐SiC substrate, we found that the Si‐TH and C‐MT configurations are stable for Ga‐N co‐adsorption, S nucleation and epitaxy growth. Ga‐polar GaN has been found in the Si‐TH configuration, whereas potential N‐polar GaN has been realized in Si‐TM and C‐TH configurations. Besides, the predicted novel 4|8 GaN with non‐polar has been found in the C‐MT configuration, resulting from the polarity competition of GaN nucleation. Both layered GaN and novel 4|8 GaN exhibit quantum effects here. Our work not only reveals the kinetics mechanism of GaN epitaxy growth on 4H‐SiC substrate in‐depth, but also provides a potential way to control the structure and polarity of epitaxial GaN with precise configurations in situ.


Progress and Application of Multifunctional Hydrogel in Radioactive Skin Injury

March 2025

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8 Reads

Radiation combined wound injury (RCWI) presents significant healing challenges due to radiation‐induced immune suppression, organ dysfunction, and disruption of growth factors and extracellular matrix dynamics. Conventional dressings like gauze are inadequate for these complex injuries. Hydrogels have emerged as a promising solution for radiation‐induced skin and mucosal injuries, offering superior mechanical strength, cell‐regeneration support, and multifunctional biochemical properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and adhesive capabilities. They create a moist, biocompatible environment that promotes cell proliferation, migration, and tissue repair, while enabling sustained drug delivery, free radical scavenging, inflammation suppression, and Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) repair. Despite their potential, a systematic comparison of wound dressings for radiation injuries remains lacking. This review addresses this gap by focusing on multifunctional hydrogels as supportive matrices and therapeutic enhancers, exploring radiation‐impaired healing mechanisms, highlighting hydrogel advancements, and comparing their efficacy in common versus radiation‐induced wounds. It also provides future research directions and clinical practice insights, emphasizing the potential of hydrogels in RCWI treatment. By bridging current knowledge gaps, this review aims to guide future research and improve clinical practices in radiology and trauma medicine.


Facile Preparation of Durable Multicolor Superhydrophobic Coatings for Concrete Protection

February 2025

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13 Reads

Concrete is extensively used in construction, roadways, and other engineering fields. However, its hydrophilic and porous structure renders it susceptible to oxidative corrosion, sand erosion, and acid rain when exposed to outdoor environments. Therefore, developing superhydrophobic coatings with superior waterproofing properties is a critical strategy to protect concrete. Nevertheless, existing superhydrophobic concrete coatings suffer from issues, such as poor durability, complex application processes, restricted color options, and difficulties in large‐scale production. Herein, a spraying method is developed that utilizes nano‐SiO2, epoxy resin, cetyltriethoxysilane, and iron oxide dyes to produce a robust, corrosion‐resistant, and multicolored superhydrophobic concrete coating with red, yellow, blue, and green colors. The produced coatings exhibit a water contact angle (CA) of 156° ± 1° and a sliding angle (SA) of 5° ± 1°. The hydrophobicity of the coatings arises from the synergistic effects of cetyltriethoxysilane, which provides low surface energy, and SiO2, which creates micro and nanoscale roughness on the coating surface. Meanwhile, the coating's robustness stems from the adhesive properties of epoxy resin and hydrogen‐bonding interactions between SiO2 and the concrete substrate. Thus, the developed superhydrophobic coating shows significant potential for extending the lifespan of concrete building facades, enhancing decorative and waterproofing features, and ensuring surface cleanliness.


Single‐Crystal Organic Field‐Effect Transistors Based on 5,15‐Bisaryl‐Tetrabenzoporphyrins: Synthesis, Structure, and Charge Transport Properties

February 2025

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17 Reads

This study reports the fabrication and performance of single‐crystal organic field‐effect transistors (SC‐OFETs) based on three 5,15‐bisaryl‐tetrabenzoporphyrin (BP) derivatives: C8Ph‐BP, C8Ph‐Ph‐BP, and Ph‐BP, where C8Ph and Ph are 4‐n‐octylphenyl and phenyl groups, respectively. These compounds are designed to investigate how meso‐substituted C8Ph and Ph groups affect molecular packing and charge transport properties of BP derivatives. X‐ray crystallography analysis confirms that all derivatives exhibit a herringbone packing structure. SC‐OFETs using single crystals of each derivative demonstrate maximum hole mobilities of 1.64 cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹ for C8Ph‐BP, 0.89 cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹ for C8Ph‐Ph‐BP, and 1.21 cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹ for Ph‐BP. The high mobility of C8Ph‐BP is attributed to its interdigitated parallel π‐stacking, enhanced by van der Waals interactions between n‐octyl groups. In contrast, Ph‐BP and C8Ph‐Ph‐BP show lower charge mobilities. This work demonstrates the influence of the n‐octyl and meso‐phenyl groups on the packing arrangements and the charge transport efficiency in SC‐OFETs, offering insights into optimizing organic semiconductors for high‐performance electronic applications.


Journal metrics


4.3 (2023)

Journal Impact Factor™


58%

Acceptance rate


8.4 (2023)

CiteScore™


27 days

Submission to first decision


$3,100 / £2,350 / €2,600

Article processing charge

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