Nanocrystalline CuO films prepared by pyrolysis of Cu-arachidate LB multilayers

Metal Oxide Quantum Dots Embedded in Silica Matrices Made by Flame Spray Pyrolysis

Quantum dots have unique size-dependent properties and promising applications. However, their use in many applications remains hindered by mechanical, thermal, and chemical instability and the lack of viable quantum dot mass-production processes. Embedding quantum dots in matrices such as silica counteracts the instability challenges in some applications while preserving their unique properties and applicability. Here, we synthesize quantum dots of four different metal oxides embedded in a silica matrix in a one-step mass-production process using flame spray pyrolysis.

Surface characteristics, copper release, and toxicity of nano- and micrometer-sized copper and copper(II) oxide particles: a cross-disciplinary study

An interdisciplinary and multianalytical research effort is undertaken to assess the toxic aspects of thoroughly characterized nano- and micrometer-sized particles of oxidized metallic copper and copper(II) oxide in contact with cultivated lung cells, as well as copper release in relevant media. All particles, except micrometer-sized Cu, release more copper in serum-containing cell medium (supplemented Dulbecco's minimal essential medium) compared to identical exposures in phosphate-buffered saline. Sonication of particles for dispersion prior to exposure has a large effect on the initial copper release from Cu nanoparticles. A clear size-dependent effect is observed from both a copper release and a toxicity perspective. In agreement with greater released amounts of copper per quantity of particles from the nanometer-sized particles compared to the micrometer-sized particles, the nanometer particles cause a higher degree of DNA damage (single-strand breaks) and cause a significantly higher percentage of cell death compared to cytotoxicity induced by micrometer-sized particles. Cytotoxic effects related to the released copper fraction are found to be significantly lower than the effects related to particles. No DNA damage is induced by the released copper fraction.