Cyclodextrin-functionalized Fe3O4@TiO2: reusable, magnetic nanoparticles for photocatalytic degradation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in water supplies

Supramolecular functionalization and concomitant enhancement in properties of Au(25) clusters

We present a versatile approach for tuning the surface functionality of an atomically precise 25 atom gold cluster using specific host-guest interactions between β-cyclodextrin (CD) and the ligand anchored on the cluster. The supramolecular interaction between the Au25 cluster protected by 4-(t-butyl)benzyl mercaptan, labeled Au25SBB18, and CD yielding Au25SBB18∩CDn (n = 1, 2, 3, and 4) has been probed experimentally using various spectroscopic techniques and was further analyzed by density functional theory calculations and molecular modeling. The viability of our method in modifying the properties of differently functionalized Au25 clusters is demonstrated. Besides modifying their optoelectronic properties, the CD moieties present on the cluster surface provide enhanced stability and optical responses which are crucial in view of the potential applications of these systems. Here, the CD molecules act as an umbrella which protects the fragile cluster core from the direct interaction with many destabilizing agents such as metal ions, ligands, and so on. Apart from the inherent biocompatibility of the CD-protected Au clusters, additional capabilities acquired by the supramolecular functionalization make such modified clusters preferred materials for applications, including those in biology.

Self-assemble SnO2@TiO2 porous nanowire–nanosheet heterostructures for enhanced photocatalytic property

In this study, semi-conducting one-dimensional SnO₂@TiO₂ heterostructures with unique properties are realized, suited to application in the photocatalysis field.

Fast catalytic reduction of an azo dye by recoverable and reusable Fe3O4@PANI@Au magnetic composites

Fe₃O₄@PANI@Au magnetic composites were fabricated and applied to catalyze azo dye reduction. This catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity, excellent recyclability and stability.