Nanotechnology Reviews

This study investigated the effects of max-phase Ti₃SiC₂ and other nanoparticle reinforcements (graphene, CNTs, and SiN) on the mechanical and dynamic properties of friction stir processed (FSPed) AA5083 aluminum composites. Microstructural analysis revealed the impact of these reinforcements on grain size. Dynamic properties were assessed using a free vibration impact test, while mechanical properties were measured through a compression test. Most composites showed enhancements in damping ratio and natural frequency compared to the base alloy, with the Ti₃SiC₂ leading to a substantial increase in natural frequency. The AA5083/max phase Ti3SiC2 composite demonstrated the most significant improvements across nearly all properties, notably enhancing stiffness (+7.35% in E), strength (+25.36% in yield strength), and vibration resistance (+5.83% in fₙ), while significantly reducing damping (−62.76% in ζ). In contrast, the friction stirred AA5083 offered moderate enhancements in strength (+17.86% in yield strength) and a slight increase in natural frequency (+2.00%) but did not significantly improve stiffness and actually increased damping. The base alloy AA5083 served as the baseline for comparison, exhibiting the lowest performance in all categories. The findings highlight the potential of FSP and reinforcement, especially Ti3SiC2, for tailoring the properties of AA5083 for enhanced performance in various applications. These findings emphasize the significance of customizing the reinforcement material to attain the intended mechanical characteristics in AA5083 composites.

Adhesive joints are frequently utilized due to their lightweight nature and minimal damage to the substrates. However, their application is constrained by a lack of reliable performance under moist conditions. This study assesses the impact of incorporating varying concentrations (0.25–0.75 wt%) of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) on moisture uptake, dynamic thermal properties, and tensile behaviour of engineered epoxy adhesives when subjected to water for periods of up to 8 weeks. The objective of this study is to ascertain the optimal concentration from the standpoint of degradation in the thermomechanical performance of the epoxy resulting from water ageing. The addition of GNP results in a 45% reduction in the diffusion coefficient of the 0.25 wt% GNP-modified epoxy relative to the unmodified epoxy. The reduced absorption of water by the GNP-reinforced adhesive results in diminished thermomechanical degradation, particularly during the initial immersion period (less than 14 days). The loss modulus exhibits an increase of up to 21% in comparison with the unmodified epoxy. The reduction in tensile strength of the modified epoxy is 53% less than that of the unmodified epoxy following 14 days of water ageing. Under the same water ageing conditions for 14 days, the epoxy modified with 0.25 wt% GNP exhibited a 75% increase in tensile strength compared to the unmodified epoxy. This work may facilitate the GNP application in epoxy adhesive joints, thereby enhancing their durability under high humidity conditions.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have received extensive attention due to their exceptional properties and wide range of applications. However, the agglomeration of CNTs in aqueous solutions and organic solvents significantly limits their large-scale application. In this study, the microscopic morphology and dispersion stability of the CNT suspensions were analyzed, and the most suitable surfactant in this study was selected. The preparation parameters of the CNT suspensions were optimized, and uniaxial compression tests were conducted on carbon nanotube concrete (CNTC) prepared using the optimized parameters. Scanning electron microscope analysis was used to investigate the improvement in the microstructure of the concrete by CNTs. Transmission electron microscope micrographs of the polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP)-CNT suspensions exhibited a uniformly distributed CNT cross-linked network. The absorbance reduction ratio of PVP-CNT suspensions after standing for 90 days was 13.75 and 22.41%, respectively. The absorbance reduction ratio of the suspensions first increased and then decreased with increasing dispersant ratio and ultrasonic dispersion time and increased with increasing ultrasonic power ratio. Compared with that of plain concrete, the uniaxial compressive strength of CNTC significantly improved, with a maximum increase of 18.15% when the content was 0.10%, and the failure mode exhibited typical shear failure characteristics. The optimized preparation parameters for the CNT suspensions were a PVP-to-multiwalled carbon nanotube mass ratio of 4:1, an ultrasonic dispersion time of 20 min, and an ultrasonic power of 60%. These optimized parameters are ideal choices for preparing CNT cement-based composite suspensions.

By virtue of the abundant oxygen-functional groups, ultra-high specific surface area and superior mechanical properties, graphene oxide (GO) has been proven as one of the outstanding candidates in cement composites. Compared with the traditional cement pastes, the GO-reinforced cement composites exhibit benefits in pore structure, mechanical properties, and durability. In addition, the abundant oxygen-containing functional groups on GO can promote the hydration rate of cement and combine with hydration products to fill the pores. To further improve the performance of GO-reinforced cement composites and promote the application of composites in practical engineering, it is necessary to comprehensively understand the reinforcing mechanisms of GO on cement composites. In this work, the enhancement mechanisms of GO to improve hydration, nucleation effects, mechanical strengthening mechanisms, antiseepage mechanisms and pore-filling effects of GO are systematically revealed. The optimal dosage range of GO mixing in the current study is calculated by considering the factors of mechanical property and microscopic characterization, but the economic cost also needs to be considered in future development studies. This review will promote the application of the more cost-effective and high-performance GO-reinforced cement composites in practical construction engineering.

Abstact Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) have wide range of application in many fields of industry, agriculture, cosmetics, and health care with probable risk to human health. The present study was conducted to find the chronic toxicity of these nanoparticles in the vital organs. Male healthy Wister Albino rats were subjected on daily bases to 35 intraperitoneal administration of 25 nm CuO NPs (2 mg/kg). All animals were subjected to morphological, histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural examinations. Exposure to CuO NPs induced reduction in body weight gain, urine retention, back arching, and renal calculi formation. The renal tissues demonstrated tubular hydropic degeneration, glomerular hypercellularity, blood vessels congestion and dilatation, renal interstitial oedema, mitochondrial injury, and lysosomal hypertrophy. Conversely, the liver displayed hepatocyte insultation, sinusoidal dilatation, Kupffer cells hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration, hepatocytes mitochondrial cristolysis, mitochondrial swelling, lysosomal hyperplasia, and nuclear alterations. Furthermore, the cardiac tissues demonstrated congestion, cardiocytes disarray, and disorganization. In addition, the neural tissue exhibited Purkinje cells degeneration and cerebral cortex spongiosis. The results suggest that CuO nanomaterials engage with the vital organs’ components, potentially leading to alterations that could affect the organs function. Further research is encouraged for better understanding the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of CuO NPs.

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have been developed as innovative devices for harvesting various forms of mechanical energy generated by our bodies and surroundings, which provide green and sustainable power for increasingly miniaturized and mobile electronics, especially wearables. In this article, the largest possible output energy per cycle of a TENG in the two basic working modes, namely, the vertical contact-separation (CS) mode and the contact-sliding (LS) mode, is analyzed and the energy collected by a capacitor is tested. It is found that more energy output and collected from a vertical CS mode TENG than that from a LS mode TENG with the same size and triboelectric layer materials when the size and displacement range of the TENG are suitable for a wearable energy harvesting device. In order to improve the energy output of a TENG, three methods have been proposed to increase its surface charge density, such as adding a BaTiO3 film or a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-BaTiO3 composite film between the triboelectric layer and the metal electrode, and using a PDMS-BaTiO3 composite film as a negative triboelectric layer, and corresponding TENGs are fabricated for experimental testing. These measures have effectively enhanced the output of the TENGs.

To expand the chemotherapeutic potential of platinum complexes, different approaches have been followed, two of the most relevant being their administration as the prodrug Pt(iv) and encapsulation in nanocarriers. Herein, we demonstrate how neuromelanin may become a good bioinspiration for the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs), combining both approaches. For this, complex PtBC reacts with sodium periodate, inducing a melanization process and the formation of nanoparticles. In vitro results on non-malignant human fibroblast cells (1Br3G), human cervical cancer, murine glioma (GL261), and human ovarian cancer confirmed its therapeutic efficacy. The role of the Pt(iv) ion on the cytotoxicity effects was confirmed by comparison with the results obtained for a family of nanoparticles obtained with nordihydroguaiaretic acid under the same experimental conditions. Finally, intranasal administration of the NPs in orthotopic glioblastoma multiforme murine models in female C57BL/6 mice showed excellent in vivo biodistribution and tolerability. Overall, this innovative approach represents a step toward more specific and less toxic therapies in the field of cancer chemotherapy.

The biodegradability of corn starch (CS), CS/nanocellulose fiber (NCF), and CS/NCF/thymol (Thy) films produced via a solvent casting method was investigated by soil burial test (SBT) in two types of soils (compost and planting). The films were evaluated in regard to weight loss, visual appearance, morphological properties, and structural properties. Based on SBT, CS/NCF films exhibited the least weight loss and changes in visual appearance, morphology, and structural properties. The inclusion of Thy into CS/NCF films increased substantially the degree of degradation of films in both soils. The microscopy images of films after SBT show that all of the films had voids, holes, and rough surfaces especially films containing Thy, indicating that the films degraded. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results revealed shifting of peaks and changes in peak intensity of some functional groups of films, confirming the degradation phenomenon. Compost soil has more organic material, active microbes, nutrients, and humidity than planting soil, thus resulting in films with greater weight loss and changes in visual appearance, morphology, and structural properties. It can be concluded that the films have a high potential for applications and can help to lower the amount of usage of non-degradable materials.

Under the turbulence of global change, the production of boards has been influenced by the rising demand and price of wood-based materials. To improve the structural performance of boards, reinforcement materials have been added, such as nanoparticles. The purpose of this review is to explore the application of nanomaterials, including nano-SiO2, nano-Al2O3, nano-ZnO, nano-Fe2O3, nano-cellulose, nano-lignin, and nano-chitosan, to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of particleboards. These nanoparticles have demonstrated their ability to reduce formaldehyde emissions, enhance the dimensional stability, bending strength, bending stiffness, fire resistance, and resistance to thermal conductivity in board production. For example, the addition of nano-SiO2, known for its hydrophilicity, attracts and holds water molecules and acts as a thermal barrier due to its high melting point and low thermal conductivity. In contrast, nano-Al2O3 is known for its high compressive strength (up to 3 GPa), hardness strength (9 Mohs scale), and high thermal conductivity, which helps to dissipate heat more effectively. This comprehensive evaluation brings together recent advances in producing particleboards and medium density fiberboard reinforced with nanoparticles, which are essential for future research and industry applications. The study emphasizes how innovative nanoparticles can contribute to sustainable urban development and construction practices, reduce deforestation, preserve natural habitats, and provide affordable housing. The research indicates that nanoparticle boards meet (e.g., nanoclay and nanoalumina panels) and in some cases exceed the minimum requirement for general-purpose panels set standards such as the ANSI/A208.1-1999, including water absorption of 8%, thickness swelling of 3% and EN 312 for the bending strength (15–16 MPa) and bending stiffness (2.2–2.4 GPa) for P4 and P6 boards, respectively. These results support the transformative power of nanomaterials in promoting a more sustainable and future solution for boards in the building construction industry.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are one-dimensional nanomaterials exhibiting specialized structures and exceptional mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties. CNTs find application in the fabrication of composite materials, material modification, and hydrogen storage. However, their widespread adoption in material modification is challenging due to their expensive manufacturing and proclivity toward agglomeration. This review expounds the evolution and future directions of in situ growth of CNTs on fly ash substrates through chemical vapor deposition or microwave heating methods. The unique structure and composition of fly ash engenders low-carbon and environmentally friendly properties while facilitating the self-growth of CNTs on its substrate. This paper delves into the characteristics and growth mechanism of the in situ-grown CNTs, with an analysis of mechanical properties, wave absorption, friction, applications, and innovations of fly ash in situ-grown CNTs as modifiers, adsorbents, and additives. The prepared fly ash in situ-grown CNTs have various advantages such as better dispersion properties, lower carbon emissions, and reduced preparation cost, enhancing their applicability in material modification and creation.

This study presents a novel model for variable fluid properties of a ternary hybrid nanofluid with base fluid polymer suspended on a three-dimensional stretching sheet under the influence of magnetohydrodynamic forces. Viscosity and thermal conductivity are temperature-dependent. This model has potential for use in nanotechnology, particularly in the shaping and design of surfaces for devices that can stretch or contract, wrap, and paint. The nonlinear equations in charge of this physical problem are derived by using similarity transformations. The fluid behavior is examined using the Reynolds viscosity model. The coupled nonlinear governing equations and the necessary boundary conditions are solved using the shooting technique with RK-4. The numerical calculations, including velocity and temperature profiles, are presented graphically to give the results a physical interpretation. The table discusses skin friction and Nusselt numbers at various physical parameters. The study’s findings show that changing the stretching parameter causes a significant change in the flow characteristics. Particularly, the thickness of the boundary layer decreases as the volume fraction of nanoparticles rises. Furthermore, because temperature-dependent viscosity is taken into account, as the viscosity parameter increases, so does the temperature. Key results specify that the Nusselt number {\rm{Nu}} increases with the increase in temperature-dependent viscosity \alpha , while decreases with the increase in thermal conductivity \epsilon parameters. Impact of \alpha shows more convective heat transfer. Greater values of \epsilon reduce the effectiveness of heat transfer.

The rising demand for ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) necessitates innovations in sustainable materials. This study explores the substitution of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with thermally and mechanically activated nano-kaolin in varying proportions from 0.5 to 0.25%. A uniform quantity of double-hooked end steel fibers was added to all the mixes. Activated nano-kaolin variants showed significant enhancement in UHPC properties. Specifically, UHPC with 0.20% thermally activated kaolin (B3-TAK-20) exhibited a 21.6% increase in compressive strength and a 25.5% increase in modulus of elasticity at 90 days, with the modulus of rupture doubling compared to the reference mix. These improvements are attributed to the amorphous nature of thermally activated nano-kaolin, resulting in a denser concrete matrix and reduced porosity. Beyond the optimal 0.20% kaolin replacement, an increase to 0.25% diminished compressive strength. Durability tests showed enhanced acid resistance, with only a 6.7% mass loss for the thermally activated nano-kaolin mix and a consistent reduction in water absorption by 14.4% as kaolin proportions increased from 0.5 to 0.25%. The study also noted a decrease in water absorption by 22.9 and 12.3% at 56 and 90 days, respectively, indicating the thermally activated nano-kaolin’s enhanced performance. This research underscores the potential of activated kaolin as a viable alternative to OPC, paving the way for more sustainable UHPC production.

The heat transfer characteristics of an unsteady magnetohydrodynamic flow through non-conducting infinite vertical parallel plates are presented in this investigation. The flow is subjected to an induced magnetic field, and the base fluid water contains carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in particular multi-wall carbon nanotubes, to present the behaviour of the nanofluid. The aim is to examine the effect of the applied magnetization and CNT concentration on the heat transport performance of the system. However, suitable transformation rules are adopted for the re-designing of the proposed design model into its non-dimensional form. This transformed system is then solved analytically following the standard transformations. The influence of key parameters, including the Hartmann number (Ha), the angle of inclination of the magnetic field, thermal buoyancy, heat source, and the concentration of CNTs in the nanofluid, on the flow phenomena is analysed. The consequences reveal that the occurrence of the inclined magnetic field affects the flow and heat transfer characteristics significantly. Additionally, the introduction of CNTs to the nanofluid enhances the heat transfer performance due to their unique thermal properties. The study demonstrates that enhanced Ha and CNT concentration augments the heat transfer rate.

Co-curing bonding is more efficient than co-bonding and secondary bonding for structural component assembly. This work used novel covered laminas with co-cured joining techniques (CL-CCT) to create carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite adhesive-bonded joints. Additionally, the researchers evaluated how multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) affect the bending and dynamic properties of CFRP composite joints. The researchers added various weights of MWCNTs to the covered laminas along with co-cured CFRP adhesive-bonded joints. The study revealed that epoxy and 0.25 wt% MWCNT adhesive produced the strongest and most flexible joints. These joints were 118 and 15% stronger than joints made from pure epoxy CL-CC CFRP, respectively. Compared to pure epoxy CC-CFRP composite joints, the strength of CL-CC CFRP composite joints with 0.25 wt% MWCNTs increased by 374 and 109%, respectively. Interestingly, MWCNTs with a wt% of 1.25 had the greatest natural frequency in all three vibration modes, which are 19, 19, and 13% higher than that of the pure epoxy CL-CC CFRP composite joint. There are 28, 30, and 24% more natural frequencies in 1.25 wt% MWCNT-based CL-CC CFRP composite joints than those in pure epoxy-based joints in all three modes. Analysis of variance was employed for statistical investigation. Optimization and prediction were done using an artificial neural network and the Levenberg–Marquardt technique.

In the design and optimization of nanofluids, it is crucial to investigate and characterize the thermal conductivity enhancement mechanisms and their influencing factors. Although the effect of the “liquid film” on the thermal conductivity of the solid–liquid interface in nanofluids has been extensively studied, most of the research in this area has examined metal–water nanofluids or Ar-based nanofluids. In this work, non-equilibrium molecular dynamics is utilized to explore the mechanism of thermal conductivity enhancement in TiO2–water nanofluids. It is noted that a distinct interfacial layer is formed within 5 Å from the nanoparticle surface. As the nanoparticle size increases, the number density also increases, resulting in a corresponding increase in the thermal conductivity. Moreover, adding 1% TiO2 nanoparticles to water leads to an increase in thermal conductivity of 1.5–3%. Notably, the interfacial layer thickness remains relatively constant with the change in temperature. The Materials Studio analysis results indicated that the water molecule will have stable chemisorption on the titanium dioxide surface with an adsorption energy of approximately −0.96 eV. The findings of this study offer new insights and useful information to support the selection of nanomaterials for the preparation of convective systems.

Most patients are at advanced stages when they are diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma, leading to poor prognosis and a low 5-year survival rate. Serological markers, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and liver biopsy are the common clinical diagnostic techniques for liver cancer. Effective interventions in the early stage will be beneficial to improve the prognosis of liver cancer patients and reduce the global burden. Therefore, it is urgent to develop new diagnostic methods to improve the diagnosis and management of liver cancer. Nanotechnology has become a new frontier subject in medical detection along with the application of nanomaterials in the manufacture of drug carriers, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic devices. Many studies have shown that nanoparticles (NPs) can be applied to the clinical diagnosis of liver cancer in combination with existing technologies, providing a new method for the early diagnosis of liver cancer. In this review, we elaborate on the theoretical basis and characteristics of NPs in the diagnosis of liver cancer, and the research progress and prospects of NPs in the diagnosis of liver cancer are summarized.

The use of plant extracts as potent reducing agents for the environmentally friendly production of nanoparticles (NPs) has recently attracted the interest of scientists. NPs have received high attention because of their novel properties. The aim of the present study is to biosynthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Raphanus sativus and study their effect as antibacterial, anticancer, antiviral, and antidiabetic, agents, NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, and inducers of phagocytosis and autophagy. The antibacterial, anticancer, and antiviral activities of ZnO NPs were investigated using different assays: well diffusion assay, MTT assay, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, reactive oxygen species generation, and apoptosis assay. Meanwhile, immunofluorescent assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and flow cytometry were used for detection of autophagy and phagocytosis. Docking was also achieved to study their binding mode as well as affinity within the target enzymes (glucosamine-6-phosphate synthase) (PDB:1MOQ) active site, estrogen receptor (PDB:3ERT) active site, and tubulin receptor (PDB:4O2B) active site. The results demonstrated that the ZnO NPs have an inhibitory role against bacteria and the proliferation of lung cancer cells (A549). IC50 was 22.78 µg/mL for A549 cells. For MCF-10, was 272.24 µg/mL, antiviral activity against influenza virus, and antidiabetic agent. Conversely, the results showed the ability of ZnO NPs to reduce inflammasome activity via induction of autophagy. The study’s findings show that R. sativus can be easily and effectively used to synthesize ZnO NPs, and they also highlight the ZnO NPs’ considerable potential as antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor, antidiabetic agent, and phagocytosis and autophagy inducer. Based on our findings, the green synthesized ZnO NPs could be used as promising therapeutic agents for biomedical applications.

The parabolic trough solar collector is among the most beneficial solar energy production technologies. However, it has comparatively low thermal performance, which can be enhanced with innovative coolant hybrid nanofluids and transmitter tube configuration. In the present investigation, water-based silver and alumina nanoparticles are used to optimize heat transfer in dual-phase flow comprising magnetohydrodynamic Prandtl–Eyring dusty nanofluid under solar radiation by employing the Levenberg–Marquardt technique with back-propagated neural networks (LM-BPNN). By combining the Joule heating phenomenon, viscous dissipation, and heat source in nanofluid, the suggested LM-BPNNs propose to enhance heat transfer. After obtaining the dataset using a numerical method called bvp4c, the Levenberg–Marquardt technique with back-propagated artificial neural networks (LM-BPANN) algorithm is employed. Benchmark datasets are used with the LM-BPANNs methodology; 80% of the dataset is utilized for training and 10% is retained for testing and verification. The generated LM-BPANNs’ accuracy and convergence are verified employing the reliability obtained through effective fitness determined by mean squared error (MSE), thorough regression analysis, and suitable error histogram representations of data. With reduced MSE values of 4.38 × 10⁻⁹, it demonstrated exceptionally good performance and demonstrated the great reliability of the model’s predictions. The result demonstrates the efficacy of the suggested method and is consistent with producing a low absolute error of around zero. The main conclusions of this study should have a big impact on industries that use heat transmission, such as oil recovery, fluidic cells, solar collectors, and other related fields.

Geopolymer mortar can be used as an environmentally friendly sustainable construction material for the repair and strengthening of already-existing structures with the utilization of various recycled materials, such as fly ash, slag powder, etc. With mature application of fibers and nanoparticles in construction materials, nano-SiO2 (NS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers have been utilized to enhance the properties of geopolymer mortar, which has a major impact on the rheological properties of geopolymer mortar. The rheological property tests of geopolymer mortar were carried out in this study, and three indices including dynamic yield stress, static yield stress, and plastic viscosity were studied as rheological parameters. The results of the study were used to establish the relationships between PVA fiber content as well as NS content and rheological parameters. The results showed that a tendency of first decreasing and then increasing was observed in the rheological parameters with the addition of NS content from 0 to 2.5%. Compared with the geopolymer mortar without NS addition, the dynamic yield stress, static yield stress, and the plastic viscosity increased by 22.6, 12.4, and 22.9%, respectively, when NS content was 2.5%. The results showed that the rheological parameters of geopolymer mortar increased linearly with the increment in PVA fiber content which was less than 1.2%. In comparison to the geopolymer mortar without PVA fibers, the dynamic yield stress, static yield stress, and plastic viscosity increased by 65, 56, and 161%, respectively, as the PVA fiber content was 1.2%.

Photocatalytic hydrogen (H₂) production is regarded as an efficient method for generating renewable energy. Despite recent advancements in photocatalytic water splitting, the solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of photocatalysts remains well below the 10% target needed for commercial viability due to ongoing scientific challenges. This review comprehensively analyzes recent advancements in nanoscale engineering of photocatalytic materials, emphasizing techniques to enhance photogenerated charge separation for efficient solar hydrogen production. Here we highlight the nanoscale engineering strategies for effective charge separation including crystal engineering, junction engineering, doping-induced charge separation, tailoring optoelectronic properties, hierarchical architecture, defects engineering, various types of heterojunctions, and polarity-induced charge separation, and discuss their unique properties including ferroelectric on spatial charge separation along with the fundamental principles of light-induced charge separation/transfer mechanisms, and the techniques for investigation. This study, critically assesses strategies for effective photogenerated charge separation to enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production and offers guidance for future research to design efficient energy materials for solar energy conversion.

This study presents an innovative, environmentally friendly method for biosynthesizing copper oxide–silica (Cu2O/SiO2) nanocomposites (CSNCs) utilizing an aqueous leaf extract of Callistemon viminalis (C. viminalis). The goal of this work is to fabricate CSNCs using a less hazardous and sustainable synthesis approach. Copper acetate and sodium metasilicate were used as precursors, whereas the C. viminalis green leaf extract was used as the reducing and stabilizing agent. Analysis of the plant extract using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated the presence of polyphenolic compounds, primarily phenolic acids, which functioned as both reducing and stabilizing agents in the synthesis of CSNCs. A combination of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy was used to study the formation of spherical copper–silica hybrid nanostructures. Powder X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the successful integration of silica with copper(i) oxide (Cu2O) through the presence of distinct Cu2O peaks and a broad amorphous SiO2 peak at 2θ = 22.77°. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites (NCs) was assessed using thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermal analysis under a nitrogen atmosphere. The biogenic NCs also successfully inhibited pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Candida albicans (C. albicans); however, S. aureus was found to be more susceptible to the biocidal activity of the NCs than P. aeruginosa. These findings suggest that this simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly method for producing biologically active hybrid nanomaterials holds significant promise for future applications in both biological and materials sciences.

The limitations of traditional drug therapy have driven the creation and development of novel cell membrane-coated nanoparticle (CMNP) platforms. Since the introduction of the CMNP concept and method in 2011, an increasing number of studies focusing on this field have been widely conducted. Despite the growing body of literature, comprehensive bibliometric analysis in this field is still lacking. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of CMNP-related publications sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection database, covering the period from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2023. The analysis included co-authorships, co-citations, and co-occurrences of countries, institutions, authors, references, and keywords. Visualized tools such as Citespace, VOSviewer, and R Package Bibliometrix were employed to present the data. A total of 780 studies were included, with China contributing the highest number of publications (75.64%, n = 590). The number of annual publications increased consistently from 2011 to 2023, indicating a growing global interest in the CMNP field. Prof. Liangfang Zhang from the United States is recognized as the founder and leading figure in this area. The top three academic journals in this field, based on publication volume, are ACS Nano (32 publications, IF 2022 = 17.1), ACS Applied Materials Interfaces (32 publications, IF 2022 = 9.5), and Advanced Functional Materials (31 publications, IF 2022 = 19) among 185 scholarly journals. Reference and keyword analysis revealed that erythrocytes and macrophage membranes are significant research hotspots. The primary diseases targeted by CMNP research are cancer and pulmonary inflammation. In addition, CMNPs are frequently studied in conjunction with photothermal and photodynamic therapy. Furthermore, this study also summarized the timelines for various cell membrane coating methods and the three-step preparation process for CMNP. This comprehensive bibliometric analysis provides valuable insights to guide future research in the CMNP field, highlighting the importance of clinical application. Research on cell membrane-coated nanomaterials, particularly those related to cancer and pulmonary inflammation, is expected to remain a focal point. In addition, there is a need for the further development of other potential cell membrane-coated nanomaterials. This bibliometric analysis serves as a resource for researchers to quickly and comprehensively understand the current hotspots and emerging frontiers in this field.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent inflammatory illness that causes joint destruction and dysfunction due to the activation of macrophages and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Current therapy choices frequently limit the effectiveness of targeting the inflammatory areas. To reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in RA, this research will create and assess multifunctional nanoparticles that selectively target inflammatory cells and deliver therapeutic medicines. Tannic acid, ferric chloride hexahydrate, methotrexate (MTX), and bovine serum albumin were conjugated using sonication and centrifugation to create the nanoparticles. Folic acid was added to improve the ability to target. Transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-vis spectroscopy, and in vitro release experiments were used to characterize the nanoparticles. RAW 264.7 macrophage cells were used to test the cellular uptake of the nanoparticles using confocal microscopy and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). TFMBP-FA achieved 65.56%, and TFMBP reached 68.96%, indicating a high drug delivery rate for the synthesized nanoparticles. Confocal microscopy showed that the TFMBP-FA group had a greater density of fluorescent markers, indicating that the cells effectively targeted and absorbed the inflammatory environment. These results imply that the created nanoparticles may improve how medications are delivered during RA therapy.

Nanotechnology holds excessive potential for addressing agricultural challenges such as soil deprivation, nutrient deficiencies, low harvests, and nutrient leaching. Nanofertilizers enable more efficient nutrient absorption by plants due to their enlarged surface area, bestowing viable solutions. Urea–hydroxyapatite hybrid (urea–HA hybrid) was successfully synthesized via a coprecipitation approach by doping nanohydroxyapatite with copper and zinc along with urea. The synthesized nanohybrids were analyzed by applying various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The evidence for the crystalline structure of HA was confirmed by peaks present in XRD analysis at 25.89°, 28.77°, and 32.11°, while urea was validated at 39.29°. The nanosized HA hexagonal nanorods were approximately 16 ± 1.5 nm, with the incorporation of urea, Cu, and Zn. The components of urea–HA hybrid (Ca, P, C, O, and N) were confirmed by EDS analysis with traces of Si. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were investigated against phytopathogenic microbes. The nanohybrid significantly inhibits the growth of Clavibacter michiganensis, Xanthomonas campestris, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Sclerotium rolfsii. A fertilization trial using urea–HA hybrid on Citrus limon has demonstrated a growth of 30 cm within 8 weeks of treatment, accompanied by brighter-colored leaves. Thus, the synthesized urea–HA hybrid enabled the slow release of nutrients, which had a significant impact on plant growth and will also effectively manage disease control against phytopathogens. Thus, this innovative approach addresses agricultural challenges regarding nutrient delivery and disease control more effectively.

The COVID-19 pandemic strongly stimulated research on anti-SARS-CoV-2 virus treatments. The present study reviews a nanotechnology approach to this task, i.e., in other terms, a nanomedicine approach. Nanotechnology aims to create nanostructures or nanoparticles, also called nanoformulations, for targeted delivery of drugs, as well as improved drug release control. This approach is particularly promising to enhance the antiviral effect of natural pro-drugs. Here, we review several nanoformulations developed for the targeted delivery of medications against SARS-CoV-2. We draw special attention to repurposing strategies for known antiviral and natural therapies. Also, functionalized nanoparticles with specific targeting moieties and functional groups were discussed. The summary could motivate researchers to pursue more studies in this exciting area by seeking nanotechnology-based, cutting-edge, tailored delivery strategies for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.