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Hou Z, Ren X, Sun Z, An R, Huang M, Gao C, Yin M, Liu G, He D, Du H, Tang R. Trash into Treasure: Nano-coating of Catheter Utilizes Urine to Deprive H 2S Against Persister and Rip Biofilm Matrix. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401067. [PMID: 39030869 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria-derived hydrogen sulfide (H2S) often contributes to the emergence of antibiotic-recalcitrant bacteria, especially persister (a sub-population of dormant bacteria), thus causing the treatment failure of Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). Here, an H2S harvester nanosystem to prevent the generation of persister bacteria and disrupt the dense biofilm matrix by the self-adaptive ability of shape-morphing is prepared. The nanosystem possesses a core-shell structure that is composed of liquid metal nanoparticle (LM NP), AgNPs, and immobilized urease. The nanosystem decomposes urea contained in urine to generate ammonia for eliminating bacteria-derived H2S. Depending on the oxidative layer of liquid metal, the nanosystem also constitutes a long-lasting reservoir for temporarily storing bacteria-derived H2S, when urease transiently overloads or in the absence of urine in a catheter. Depriving H2S can prevent the emergence of persistent bacteria, enhancing the bacteria-killing efficiency of Ga3+ and Ag+ ions. Even when the biofilm has formed, the urine flow provides heat to trigger shape morphing of the LM NP, tearing the biofilm matrix. Collectively, this strategy can turn trash (urea) into treasure (H2S scavengers and biofilm rippers), and provides a new direction for the antibacterial materials application in the medical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Hou
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Ren
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Sun
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Ruoqi An
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Mingzhi Huang
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Cen Gao
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Mengying Yin
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Guangxiu Liu
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Dengqi He
- Department of Stomatology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Hongliang Du
- Department of Stomatology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
| | - Rongbing Tang
- School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, P. R. China
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Kim JH, Kim S, Dickey MD, So JH, Koo HJ. Interface of gallium-based liquid metals: oxide skin, wetting, and applications. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2024; 9:1099-1119. [PMID: 38716614 DOI: 10.1039/d4nh00067f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Gallium-based liquid metals (GaLMs) are promising for a variety of applications-especially as a component material for soft devices-due to their fluidic nature, low toxicity and reactivity, and high electrical and thermal conductivity comparable to solid counterparts. Understanding the interfacial properties and behaviors of GaLMs in different environments is crucial for most applications. When exposed to air or water, GaLMs form a gallium oxide layer with nanoscale thickness. This "oxide nano-skin" passivates the metal surface and allows for the formation of stable microstructures and films despite the high-surface tension of liquid metal. The oxide skin easily adheres to most smooth surfaces. While it enables effective printing and patterning of the GaLMs, it can also make the metals challenging to handle because it adheres to most surfaces. The oxide also affects the interfacial electrical resistance of the metals. Its formation, thickness, and composition can be chemically or electrochemically controlled, altering the physical, chemical, and electrical properties of the metal interface. Without the oxide, GaLMs wet metallic surfaces but do not wet non-metallic substrates such as polymers. The topography of the underlying surface further influences the wetting characteristics of the metals. This review outlines the interfacial attributes of GaLMs in air, water, and other environments and discusses relevant applications based on interfacial engineering. The effect of surface topography on the wetting behaviors of the GaLMs is also discussed. Finally, we suggest important research topics for a better understanding of the GaLMs interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hye Kim
- Department of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooyoung Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - Michael D Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - Ju-Hee So
- Material & Component Convergence R&D Department, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Ansan-si, 15588, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyung-Jun Koo
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01811, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Lin Z, Qiu X, Cai Z, Li J, Zhao Y, Lin X, Zhang J, Hu X, Bai H. High internal phase emulsions gel ink for direct-ink-writing 3D printing of liquid metal. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4806. [PMID: 38839743 PMCID: PMC11153652 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48906-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
3D printing of liquid metal remains a big challenge due to its low viscosity and large surface tension. In this study, we use Carbopol hydrogel and liquid gallium-indium alloy to prepare a liquid metal high internal phase emulsion gel ink, which can be used for direct-ink-writing 3D printing. The high volume fraction (up to 82.5%) of the liquid metal dispersed phase gives the ink excellent elastic properties, while the Carbopol hydrogel, as the continuous phase, provides lubrication for the liquid metal droplets, ensuring smooth flow of the ink during shear extrusion. These enable high-resolution and shape-stable 3D printing of three-dimensional structures. Moreover, the liquid metal droplets exhibit an electrocapillary phenomenon in the Carbopol hydrogel, which allows for demulsification by an electric field and enables electrical connectivity between droplets. We have also achieved the printing of ink on flexible, non-planar structures, and demonstrated the potential for alternating printing with various materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewen Lin
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Xiaowen Qiu
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Zhouqishuo Cai
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Jialiang Li
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Yanan Zhao
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Xinping Lin
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Jinmeng Zhang
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China
| | - Xiaolan Hu
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China.
| | - Hua Bai
- College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, PR China.
- Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China.
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4
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Muller B, Feig VR, Colella NS, Traverso G, Hashmi SM. Thiol Coordination Softens Liquid Metal Particles To Improve On-Demand Conductivity. ACS NANO 2024; 18:13768-13780. [PMID: 38745441 PMCID: PMC11140741 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Achieving tunable rupturing of eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) particles holds great significance in flexible electronic applications, particularly pressure sensors. We tune the mechanosensitivity of EGaIn particles by preparing them in toluene with thiol surfactants and demonstrate an improvement over typical preparations in ethanol. We observe, across multiple length scales, that thiol surfactants and the nonpolar solvent synergistically reduce the applied stress requirements for electromechanical actuation. At the nanoscale, dodecanethiol and propanethiol in toluene suppress gallium oxide growth, as characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Quantitative AFM imaging produces force-indentation curves and height images, while conductive AFM measures current while probing individual EGaIn particles. As the applied force increases, thiolated particles demonstrate intensified softening, rupturing, and stress-induced electrical activation at forces 40% lower than those for bare particles in ethanol. To confirm that thiolation facilitates rupturing at the macroscale, a laser is used to ablate samples of EGaIn particles. Scanning electron microscopy and resistance measurements across macroscopic samples confirm that thiolated EGaIn particles coalesce to exhibit electrical activation at 0.1 W. Particles prepared in ethanol, however, require 3 times higher laser power to demonstrate a similar behavior. This unique collection of advanced techniques demonstrates that our particle synthesis conditions can facilitate on-demand functionality to benefit electronic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin
N. Muller
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Division
of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women’s
Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- David
H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Vivian R. Feig
- Division
of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women’s
Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- David
H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Nicholas S. Colella
- Center
for Nanoscale Systems, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Giovanni Traverso
- Division
of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Brigham and Women’s
Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- David
H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts
Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Sara M. Hashmi
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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5
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Zhu J, Li J, Tong Y, Hu T, Chen Z, Xiao Y, Zhang S, Yang H, Gao M, Pan T, Cheng H, Lin Y. Recent progress in multifunctional, reconfigurable, integrated liquid metal-based stretchable sensors and standalone systems. PROGRESS IN MATERIALS SCIENCE 2024; 142:101228. [PMID: 38745676 PMCID: PMC11090487 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmatsci.2023.101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Possessing a unique combination of properties that are traditionally contradictory in other natural or synthetical materials, Ga-based liquid metals (LMs) exhibit low mechanical stiffness and flowability like a liquid, with good electrical and thermal conductivity like metal, as well as good biocompatibility and room-temperature phase transformation. These remarkable properties have paved the way for the development of novel reconfigurable or stretchable electronics and devices. Despite these outstanding properties, the easy oxidation, high surface tension, and low rheological viscosity of LMs have presented formidable challenges in high-resolution patterning. To address this challenge, various surface modifications or additives have been employed to tailor the oxidation state, viscosity, and patterning capability of LMs. One effective approach for LM patterning is breaking down LMs into microparticles known as liquid metal particles (LMPs). This facilitates LM patterning using conventional techniques such as stencil, screening, or inkjet printing. Judiciously formulated photo-curable LMP inks or the introduction of an adhesive seed layer combined with a modified lift-off process further provide the micrometer-level LM patterns. Incorporating porous and adhesive substrates in LM-based electronics allows direct interfacing with the skin for robust and long-term monitoring of physiological signals. Combined with self-healing polymers in the form of substrates or composites, LM-based electronics can provide mechanical-robust devices to heal after damage for working in harsh environments. This review provides the latest advances in LM-based composites, fabrication methods, and their novel and unique applications in stretchable or reconfigurable sensors and resulting integrated systems. It is believed that the advancements in LM-based material preparation and high-resolution techniques have opened up opportunities for customized designs of LM-based stretchable sensors, as well as multifunctional, reconfigurable, highly integrated, and even standalone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhu
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Jiaying Li
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Yao Tong
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Taiqi Hu
- School of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Ganzhou 341000, P. R. China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, PR China
| | - Yang Xiao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Senhao Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Hongbo Yang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Min Gao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Taisong Pan
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Huanyu Cheng
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Yuan Lin
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Medico-Engineering Cooperation on Applied Medicine Research Center, University of Electronics Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
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6
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Xing S, Liu Y. Functional micro-/nanostructured gallium-based liquid metal for biochemical sensing and imaging applications. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 243:115795. [PMID: 37913588 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, liquid metals (LMs) have garnered increasing attention for their expanded applicability, and wide application potential in various research fields. Among them, gallium (Ga)-based LMs exhibit remarkable analytical performance in electrical and optical sensors, thanks to their excellent conductivity, large surface area, biocompatibility, small bandgap, and high elasticity. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest advancements in functional micro-/nanostructured Ga-based LMs for biochemical sensing and imaging applications. Firstly, the electrical, optical, and biocompatible features of Ga-based LM micro-/nanoparticles are briefly discussed, along with the manufacturing and functionalization processes. Subsequently, we demonstrate the utilization of Ga-based LMs in biochemical sensing techniques, encompassing electrochemistry, electrochemiluminescence, optical sensing techniques, and various biomedical imaging. Lastly, we present an insightful perspective on promising research directions and remaining challenges in LM-based biochemical sensing and imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Xing
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory for Analytical Methods and Instrumentation, Kay Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory for Analytical Methods and Instrumentation, Kay Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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7
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Truong VK, Hayles A, Bright R, Luu TQ, Dickey MD, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Vasilev K. Gallium Liquid Metal: Nanotoolbox for Antimicrobial Applications. ACS NANO 2023; 17:14406-14423. [PMID: 37506260 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The proliferation of drug resistance in microbial pathogens poses a significant threat to human health. Hence, treatment measures are essential to surmount this growing problem. In this context, liquid metal nanoparticles are promising. Gallium, a post-transition metal notable for being a liquid at physiological temperature, has drawn attention for its distinctive properties, high antimicrobial efficacy, and low toxicity. Moreover, gallium nanoparticles demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties in immune cells. Gallium can alloy with other metals and be prepared in various composites to modify and tailor its characteristics and functionality. More importantly, the bactericidal mechanism of gallium liquid metal could sidestep the threat of emerging drug resistance mechanisms. Building on this rationale, gallium-based liquid metal nanoparticles can enable impactful and innovative strategic pathways in the battle against antimicrobial resistance. This review outlines the characteristics of gallium-based liquid metals at the nanoscale and their corresponding antimicrobial mechanisms to provide a comprehensive yet succinct overview of their current antimicrobial applications. In addition, challenges and opportunities that require further research efforts have been identified and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vi Khanh Truong
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Andrew Hayles
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Richard Bright
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Trong Quan Luu
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Michael D Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Kourosh Kalantar-Zadeh
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Krasimir Vasilev
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
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8
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Ahn S, Kang SH, Woo H, Kim K, Koo HJ, Lee HY, Choi Y, Kang SH, Choi J. Liquid-Metal Core-Shell Particles Coated with Folate and Phospholipids for Targeted Drug Delivery and Photothermal Treatment of Cancer Cells. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2017. [PMID: 37446533 DOI: 10.3390/nano13132017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Recently, several methods have been used for cancer treatment. Among them, chemotherapy is generally used, but general anticancer drugs may affect normal cells and tissues, causing various side effects. To reduce the side effects and increase the efficacy of anticancer drugs, a folate-based liquid-metal drug nanodelivery system was used to target the folate receptor, which is highly expressed in cancer cells. A phospholipid-based surface coating was formed on the surface of liquid-metal nanoparticles to increase their stability, and doxorubicin was loaded as a drug delivery system. Folate on the lipid shell surface increased the efficiency of targeting cancer cells. The photothermal properties of liquid metal were confirmed by near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. After treating cancerous and normal cells with liquid-metal particles and NIR irradiation, the particles were specifically bound to cancer cells for drug uptake, confirming photothermal therapy as a drug delivery system that is expected to induce cancer cell death through comprehensive effects such as vascular embolization in addition to targeting cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyeon Ahn
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hyun Kang
- Departments of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul 06973, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjeong Woo
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyobum Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Jun Koo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Young Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi-si 39177, Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghyun Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
- Feynman Institute of Technology, Nanomedicine Corporation, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Hyuk Kang
- Departments of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul 06973, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghoon Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
- Feynman Institute of Technology, Nanomedicine Corporation, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
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9
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Ma J, Krisnadi F, Vong MH, Kong M, Awartani OM, Dickey MD. Shaping a Soft Future: Patterning Liquid Metals. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2205196. [PMID: 36044678 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202205196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
This review highlights the unique techniques for patterning liquid metals containing gallium (e.g., eutectic gallium indium, EGaIn). These techniques are enabled by two unique attributes of these liquids relative to solid metals: 1) The fluidity of the metal allows it to be injected, sprayed, and generally dispensed. 2) The solid native oxide shell allows the metal to adhere to surfaces and be shaped in ways that would normally be prohibited due to surface tension. The ability to shape liquid metals into non-spherical structures such as wires, antennas, and electrodes can enable fluidic metallic conductors for stretchable electronics, soft robotics, e-skins, and wearables. The key properties of these metals with a focus on methods to pattern liquid metals into soft or stretchable devices are summari.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinwoo Ma
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Febby Krisnadi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Man Hou Vong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Minsik Kong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Omar M Awartani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Michael D Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
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10
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Huang Z, Zou S, Liu G. Surface Modification of Liquid Metal with p-Aniline Derivatives toward Bioapplications: Biosensing as an Example. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:56429-56439. [PMID: 36520994 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
It is a long-lasting research topic to avoid the formation of oxidation layers on gallium-based liquid metals. This study has developed a simple general method for modification of the eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) surface with p-aniline derivatives to introduce a monolayer of organic molecules with versatile functional groups. The binding affinity of carboxylic acid groups, amine groups, or thiol groups with EGaIn is in the order SH > NH2 > COOH. For the first time, it is evidenced that both NH2 and SH groups can coexist on the EGaIn nanoparticle surface with the binding affinities of 30 and 70%, respectively. The formation of these organic molecules on the EGaIn surface antioxidizes and thus stabilizes the EGaIn nanoparticles, while increasing the conductivity of EGaIn significantly. The resulting EGaIn nanoparticles have very good distribution in both ethanol and aqueous solutions and rich surface chemistry, making them suitable for the following attachment of biomolecules such as aptamers, antibodies, or enzymes for biomedical applications. As an example, the EGaIn surface is successfully modified with p-aminobenzoic acid followed by the attachment of an insulin aptamer, which can be used for the electrochemical detection of insulin with the lowest detectable concentration limit of 1 pM. This study reveals the modification of EGaIn nanoparticles with p-aniline derivatives with versatile functional groups to antioxidize EGaIn in a biological environment, opening a door for gallium-based liquid metals toward biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Huang
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
- Ciechanover Institute of Precision and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Siyi Zou
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
- Ciechanover Institute of Precision and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Guozhen Liu
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
- Ciechanover Institute of Precision and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
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11
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He J, Pang W, Gu B, Lin X, Ye J. The stiffness-dependent tumor cell internalization of liquid metal nanoparticles. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:16902-16917. [PMID: 36342434 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr04293b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The properties of nanoparticle (NP) carriers, such as size, shape and surface state, have been proven to dramatically affect their uptake by tumor cells, thereby influencing and determining the effect of nanomedicine on tumor theranostics. However, the effect of the stiffness of NPs on their cellular internalization remains unclear, especially for circumstances involving active or passive NP targeting. In this work, we constructed eutectic gallium indium liquid metal NPs with the same particle size, shape and surface charge properties but distinct stiffness via tailoring the surface oxidation and silica coating. It has been found that the softer NPs would be endocytosed much slower than their stiffer counterparts in the presence of specific ligand-receptor interaction. Interestingly, once the interaction is eliminated, softer NPs are internalized faster than the stiffer ones. Based on experimental observations and theoretical verification, we demonstrate that this phenomenon is mainly caused by varying degrees of deformation of soft NPs induced by ligand-receptor interactions. Such a finding of the stiffness effect of NPs implies great potential for fundamental biomedical applications, such as the rational design of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China.
| | - Wen Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China.
| | - Bobo Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China.
| | - Xubo Lin
- Institute of Single Cell Engineering, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, P. R. China
| | - Jian Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, P. R. China.
- Institute of Medical Robotics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, P. R. China
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12
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Duan L, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Zhang J, Li Q, Lu Q, Fu L, Liu J, Liu Q. New Strategy and Excellent Fluorescence Property of Unique Core-Shell Structure Based on Liquid Metals/Metal Halides. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2204056. [PMID: 36101903 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202204056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The further applications of liquid metals (LMs) are limited by their common shortcoming of silver-white physical appearance, which deviates from the impose stringent requirements for color and aesthetics. Herein, a concept is proposed for constructing fluorescent core-shell structures based on the components and properties of LMs, and metal halides. The metal halides endow LMs with polychromatic and stable fluorescence characteristics. As a proof-of-concept, LMs-Al obtained by mixing of LMs with aluminum (Al) is reported. The surface of LMs-Al is transformed directly from Al to a multi-phase metal halide of K3 AlCl6 with double perovskites structure, via redox reactions with KCl + HCl solution in a natural environment. The formation of core-shell structure from the K3 AlCl6 and LMs is achieved, and the shell with different phases can emit a cyan light by the superimposition of the polychromatic spectrum. Furthermore, the LMs can be directly converted into a fluorescent shell without affecting their original features. In particular, the luminescence properties of shells can be regulated by the components in LMs. This study provides a new direction for research in spontaneous interfacial modification and fluorescent functionalization of LMs and promises potential applications, such as lighting and displays, anti-counterfeiting measures, sensing, and chameleon robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfei Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Jianhong Zhao
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Qian Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Qingjie Lu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Li Fu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Jing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering School of Medicine Tsinghua University Beijing, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qingju Liu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
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13
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Soh EJH, Astier HPAG, Daniel D, Isaiah Chua JQ, Miserez A, Jia Z, Li L, O'Shea SJ, Bhaskaran H, Tomczak N, Nijhuis CA. AFM Manipulation of EGaIn Microdroplets to Generate Controlled, On-Demand Contacts on Molecular Self-Assembled Monolayers. ACS NANO 2022; 16:14370-14378. [PMID: 36065994 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c04667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metal droplets, such as eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn), are important in many research areas, such as soft electronics, catalysis, and energy storage. Droplet contact on solid surfaces is typically achieved without control over the applied force and without optimizing the wetting properties in different environments (e.g., in air or liquid), resulting in poorly defined contact areas. In this work, we demonstrate the direct manipulation of EGaIn microdroplets using an atomic force microscope (AFM) to generate repeated, on-demand making and breaking of contact on self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of alkanethiols. The nanoscale positional control and feedback loop in an AFM allow us to control the contact force at the nanonewton level and, consequently, tune the droplet contact areas at the micrometer length scale in both air and ethanol. When submerged in ethanol, the droplets are highly nonwetting, resulting in hysteresis-free contact forces and minimal adhesion; as a result, we are able to create reproducible geometric contact areas of 0.8-4.5 μm2 with the alkanethiolate SAMs in ethanol. In contrast, there is a larger hysteresis in the contact forces and larger adhesion for the same EGaIn droplet in air, which reduced the control over the contact area (4-12 μm2). We demonstrate the usefulness of the technique and of the gained insights in EGaIn contact mechanics by making well-defined molecular tunneling junctions based on alkanethiolate SAMs with small geometric contact areas of between 4 and 12 μm2 in air, 1 to 2 orders of magnitude smaller than previously achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Jia Hao Soh
- Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PH, United Kingdom
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138634
| | | | - Dan Daniel
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138634
- Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jia Qing Isaiah Chua
- Biological and Biomimetic Material Laboratory, Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore 637553
| | - Ali Miserez
- Biological and Biomimetic Material Laboratory, Center for Biomimetic Sensor Science, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore 637553
| | - Zian Jia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Sean J O'Shea
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138634
| | - Harish Bhaskaran
- Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Nikodem Tomczak
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138634
| | - Christian A Nijhuis
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
- Hybrid Materials for Optoelectronics Group, Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
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14
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Akyildiz K, Kim JH, So JH, Koo HJ. Recent progress on micro- and nanoparticles of gallium-based liquid metal: From preparation to applications. J IND ENG CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2022.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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15
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Influence of microstructural alterations of liquid metal and its interfacial interactions with rubber on multifunctional properties of soft composite materials. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 308:102752. [PMID: 36007286 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2022.102752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Liquid metal (LM)-based polymer composites are currently new breakthrough and emerging classes of soft multifunctional materials (SMMs) having immense transformative potential for soft technological applications. Currently, room-temperature LMs, mostly eutectic gallium‑indium and Galinstan alloys are used to integrate with soft polymer due to their outstanding properties such as high conductivity, fluidity, low adhesion, high surface tension, low cytotoxicity, etc. The microstructural alterations and interfacial interactions controlling the efficient integration of LMs with rubber are the most critical aspects for successful implementation of multifunctionality in the resulting material. In this review article, a fundamental understanding of microstructural alterations of LMs to the formation of well-defined percolating networks inside an insulating rubber matrix has been established by exploiting several existing theoretical and experimental studies. Furthermore, effects of the chemical modifications of an LM surface and its interfacial interactions on the compatibility between solid rubber and fluid filler phase have been discussed. The presence of thin oxide layer on the LM surface and the effects and challenges it poses to the adequate functionalization of these materials have been discussed. Plausible applications of SMMs in different soft matter technologies, like soft robotics, flexible electronics, soft actuators, sensors, etc. have been provided. Finally, the current technical challenges and further prospective to the development of SMMs using non‑silicone rubbers have been critically discussed. This review is anticipated to infuse a new impetus to the associated research communities for the development of next generation SMMs.
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16
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Amini S, Chen X, Chua JQI, Tee JS, Nijhuis CA, Miserez A. Interplay between Interfacial Energy, Contact Mechanics, and Capillary Forces in EGaIn Droplets. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:28074-28084. [PMID: 35649179 PMCID: PMC9227710 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c04043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) is increasingly employed as an interfacial conductor material in molecular electronics and wearable healthcare devices owing to its ability to be shaped at room temperature, conductivity, and mechanical stability. Despite this emerging usage, the mechanical and physical mechanisms governing EGaIn interactions with surrounding objects─mainly regulated by surface tension and interfacial adhesion─remain poorly understood. Here, using depth-sensing nanoindentation (DSN) on pristine EGaIn/GaOx surfaces, we uncover how changes in EGaIn/substrate interfacial energies regulate the adhesive and contact mechanic behaviors, notably the evolution of EGaIn capillary bridges with distinct capillary geometries and pressures. Varying the interfacial energy by subjecting EGaIn to different chemical environments and by functionalizing the tip with chemically distinct self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), we show that the adhesion forces between EGaIn and the solid substrate can be increased by up to 2 orders of magnitude, resulting in about a 60-fold increase in the elongation of capillary bridges. Our data reveal that by deploying molecular junctions with SAMs of different terminal groups, the trends of charge transport rates, the resistance of monolayers, and the contact interactions between EGaIn and monolayers from electrical characterizations are governed by the interfacial energies as well. This study provides a key understanding into the role of interfacial energy on geometrical characteristics of EGaIn capillary bridges, offering insights toward the fabrication of EGaIn junctions in a controlled fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahrouz Amini
- Department
of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of
Colloids and Interfaces, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
- Biological
and Biomimetic Materials Laboratory, Center for Sustainable Materials
(SusMat), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Department
of Chemistry and Environment Science, Fujian Province Key Laboratory
of Modern Analytical Science and Separation Technology, Minnan Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000, China
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Jia Qing Isaiah Chua
- Biological
and Biomimetic Materials Laboratory, Center for Sustainable Materials
(SusMat), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Jinq Shi Tee
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Christian A. Nijhuis
- Department
of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Singapore
- Centre
for Advanced 2D Materials and Graphene Research Centre, National University of Singapore, 6 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117546, Singapore
- Hybrid Materials
for Opto-Electronics Group, Department of Molecules and Materials,
MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and Molecules Centre, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Miserez
- Biological
and Biomimetic Materials Laboratory, Center for Sustainable Materials
(SusMat), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- School
of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological
University (NTU), 60
Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551, Singapore
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17
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Guymon GG, Malakooti MH. Multifunctional liquid metal polymer composites. JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pol.20210867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory G. Guymon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Institute for Nano‐Engineered Systems University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Mohammad H. Malakooti
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Institute for Nano‐Engineered Systems University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
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18
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Castilla-Amorós L, Chien TCC, Pankhurst JR, Buonsanti R. Modulating the Reactivity of Liquid Ga Nanoparticle Inks by Modifying Their Surface Chemistry. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:1993-2001. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c12880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laia Castilla-Amorós
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy (LNCE), Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1950 Sion, Switzerland
| | - Tzu-Chin Chang Chien
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy (LNCE), Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1950 Sion, Switzerland
| | - James R. Pankhurst
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy (LNCE), Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1950 Sion, Switzerland
| | - Raffaella Buonsanti
- Laboratory of Nanochemistry for Energy (LNCE), Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1950 Sion, Switzerland
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19
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Liu H, Ouyang D, Wang J, Lei C, Shi W, Gilliam T, Liu J, Li Y, Chopra N. Chemical Vapor Deposition Mechanism of Graphene-Encapsulated Au Nanoparticle Heterostructures and Their Plasmonics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:58134-58143. [PMID: 34807555 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c16608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Direct encapsulation of graphene shells on noble metal nanoparticles via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has been recently reported as a unique way to design and fabricate new plasmonic heterostructures. But currently, the fundamental nature of the growth mechanism of graphene layers on metal nanostructures is still unknown. Herein, we report a systematic investigation on the CVD growth of graphene-encapsulated Au nanoparticles (Au@G) by combining an experimental parameter study and theoretical modeling. We studied the effect of growth temperature, duration, hydrocarbon precursor concentration, and extent of reducing (H2) environment on the morphology of the products. In addition, the influence of plasma oxidation conditions for the surface oxidation of gold nanoparticles on the graphene shell growth is evaluated in combination with thermodynamic calculations. We find that these parameters critically aid in the evolution of graphene shells around gold nanoparticles and allow for controlling shell thickness, graphene shell quality and morphology, and hybrid nanoparticle diameter. An optimized condition including the growth temperature of ∼675 °C, duration of 30 min, and xylene feed rate of ∼10 mL/h with 10% H2/Ar carrier gas was finally obtained for the best morphology evolution. We further performed finite-element analysis (FEA) simulations to understand the equivalent von Mises stress distribution and discrete dipolar approximation (DDA) calculation to reveal the optical properties of such new core-shell heterostructures. This study brings new insight to the nature of CVD mechanism of Au@G and might help guiding their controlled growth and future design and application in plasmonic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heguang Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710048, China
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Decai Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Chao Lei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710048, China
| | - Wenwu Shi
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401, United States
| | - Todd Gilliam
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401, United States
| | - Jianxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Material Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Nitin Chopra
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401, United States
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20
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Kim J, Jeong J, Hyun Y, Chung SK, Lee J. Electrostatic Stabilization of Nano Liquid Metals in Doped Nonpolar Liquids. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2104143. [PMID: 34623028 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202104143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metals and alloys are attracting renewed attention owing to their potential for application in various advanced technologies. Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) has been focused on in particular because of its integrated advantages of high conductivity, low melting point, and low toxicity. In this study, the colloidal behavior of nano-dispersed EGaIn in nonpolar oils is investigated. Although the nonpolar oil continuous phase is commonly considered to be free of electric charges, electrostatic repulsion appears to be crucial in the colloidal stabilization of the nano-dispersed EGaIn phases, the modulation of which is possible by doping the oil phases with different types of oil-soluble surfactants. The qualitative correlation between the observed colloidal stabilities and the "zero field" particle mobilities inferred from the field-dependent electrophoretic mobilities indicates that the electric charging of EGaIn particles in surfactant-doped nonpolar oils is a static phenomenon that is maintained in equilibrium, rather than a solely field-induced process. A systematic investigation of the charging properties of these unique biphasic particles, consisting of the liquid Ga-In bulk and the solid Ga2 O3 surface that formed spontaneously, reveals the complicated system-dependent nature of the charging mechanisms mediated by ionic and nonionic surfactants in nonpolar media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Myongji University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea
| | - Jinwon Jeong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Myongji University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea
| | - Youngbin Hyun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Myongji University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea
| | - Sang Kug Chung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Myongji University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea
| | - Joohyung Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Myongji University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea
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21
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Monnens W, Lin PC, Deferm C, Binnemans K, Fransaer J. Electrochemical behavior and electrodeposition of gallium in 1,2-dimethoxyethane-based electrolytes. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2021; 23:15492-15502. [PMID: 34142695 PMCID: PMC8317176 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp01074c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The electrochemical behavior and electrodeposition of gallium was studied in a non-aqueous electrolyte comprising of gallium(iii) chloride and 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME). Electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) and rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) measurements indicate that reduction of gallium(iii) is a two-step process: first from gallium(iii) to gallium(i), and then from gallium(i) to gallium(0). The morphology and elemental composition of the electrodeposited layer were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Metallic gallium was deposited as spheres with diameters of several hundred nanometers that were stacked on top of each other. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed that each gallium sphere was covered by a thin gallium oxide shell. Electrochemical experiments indicated that these oxide layers are electrically conductive, as gallium can be electrodeposited and partially stripped on or from the layer of spheres below. This was further evidenced by simultaneous electrodeposition of gallium and indium, using indium as a tracer. Electrodeposition of gallium from an O2-containing electrolyte resulted in spheres with smaller diameters. This was due to the formation thicker oxide shells, through which diffusion of gallium atoms that were electrodeposited on the surface, was slower. The concentration of gallium adatoms on top of the gallium spheres to form a new sphere therefore reaches the critical concentration for nucleating a new gallium sphere sooner, leading to smaller spheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Monnens
- KU Leuven, Department of Materials Engineering, Kasteelpark Arenberg 44, P. O. box 2450, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Pin-Cheng Lin
- KU Leuven, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Clio Deferm
- KU Leuven, Department of Chemistry, Celestijnenlaan 200F, P. O. box 2404, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Binnemans
- KU Leuven, Department of Chemistry, Celestijnenlaan 200F, P. O. box 2404, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Fransaer
- KU Leuven, Department of Materials Engineering, Kasteelpark Arenberg 44, P. O. box 2450, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
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22
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Neumann TV, Kara B, Sargolzaeiaval Y, Im S, Ma J, Yang J, Ozturk MC, Dickey MD. Aerosol Spray Deposition of Liquid Metal and Elastomer Coatings for Rapid Processing of Stretchable Electronics. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:146. [PMID: 33535606 PMCID: PMC7912875 DOI: 10.3390/mi12020146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We report a spray deposition technique for patterning liquid metal alloys to form stretchable conductors, which can then be encapsulated in silicone elastomers via the same spraying procedure. While spraying has been used previously to deposit many materials, including liquid metals, this work focuses on quantifying the spraying process and combining it with silicones. Spraying generates liquid metal microparticles (~5 μm diameter) that pass through openings in a stencil to produce traces with high resolution (~300 µm resolution using stencils from a craft cutter) on a substrate. The spraying produces sufficient kinetic energy (~14 m/s) to distort the particles on impact, which allows them to merge together. This merging process depends on both particle size and velocity. Particles of similar size do not merge when cast as a film. Likewise, smaller particles (<1 µm) moving at the same speed do not rupture on impact either, though calculations suggest that such particles could rupture at higher velocities. The liquid metal features can be encased by spraying uncured silicone elastomer from a volatile solvent to form a conformal coating that does not disrupt the liquid metal features during spraying. Alternating layers of liquid metal and elastomer may be patterned sequentially to build multilayer devices, such as soft and stretchable sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor V. Neumann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (T.V.N.); (S.I.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Berra Kara
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (B.K.); (Y.S.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Yasaman Sargolzaeiaval
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (B.K.); (Y.S.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Sooik Im
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (T.V.N.); (S.I.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Jinwoo Ma
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (T.V.N.); (S.I.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Jiayi Yang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (T.V.N.); (S.I.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Mehmet C. Ozturk
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (B.K.); (Y.S.); (M.C.O.)
| | - Michael D. Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; (T.V.N.); (S.I.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
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23
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Mingear J, Farrell Z, Hartl D, Tabor C. Gallium-indium nanoparticles as phase change material additives for tunable thermal fluids. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:730-738. [PMID: 33406169 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr06526a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the most critical limitations for high-power electronics today is thermal management and routing thermal energy efficiently away from thermally sensitive components. A potential solution to this problem is the integration of cooling channels in close proximity to thermally sensitive materials for increased heat removal efficiency. These channels typically use single phase fluids (liquid), dual phase fluids (vapor-liquid), or suspended organic/polymer phase change material particles in a fluid (PCM slurry). Expanding upon the latter, this work demonstrates the use of inorganic Ga-In alloy nanoparticles (NPs) suspended in a traditional thermal transport fluid to simultaneously (1) increase the overall thermal diffusivity of the fluid and (2) serve as a cyclable solid-liquid PCM slurry which provides a thermal sink that is definable over a wide range of relevant temperatures for power electronics. Herein, the relationship between particle size, composition, and volume fraction are explored as they relate to the PCM slurry optimum working temperature, total energy absorption, and rheological properties. A mere 0.10 volume fraction of Ga-In NPs is reported to increase the overall thermal conductivity by nearly 50% and can be optimized to melt at temperatures as low as -46 °C. Based on thermal measurements, it was observed that these nanoparticle systems lack the preference to form αGa and have a large thermal hysteresis due to exhibiting extreme undercooling, with crystallization temperatures near -130 °C, enabling opportunities within extreme environments such as space applications or low temperature imaging systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Mingear
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Darren Hartl
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA and Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Christopher Tabor
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433, USA.
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24
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Liu Y, Zhang W, Wang H. Synthesis and application of core-shell liquid metal particles: a perspective of surface engineering. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2021; 8:56-77. [PMID: 34821290 DOI: 10.1039/d0mh01117g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metal micro/nano particles (LMPs) from gallium and its alloys have attracted tremendous attention in the last decade due to the unique combination of their metallic and fluidic properties at relatively low temperatures. Unfortunately, there is limited success so far in realizing the highly controllable fabrication and functionalization of this emerging material, posing great obstacles to further promoting its fundamental and applied studies. This review aims to explore solutions for the on-demand design and manipulation of LMPs through physicochemically engineering their surface microenvironment, including compositions, structures, and properties, which are featured by the encapsulation of LMPs inside a variety of synthetic shell architectures. These heterophase, core-shell liquid metal composites display adjustable size and structure-property relationships, rendering improved performances in several attractive scenarios including but not limited to soft electronics, nano/biomedicine, catalysis, and energy storage/conversion. Challenges and opportunities regarding this burgeoning field are also disclosed at the end of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for NanoScience and Technology, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing 100190, P. R. China.
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25
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Creighton MA, Yuen MC, Morris NJ, Tabor CE. Graphene-based encapsulation of liquid metal particles. NANOSCALE 2020; 12:23995-24005. [PMID: 33104147 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr05263a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metals are a promising functional material due to their unique combination of metallic properties and fluidity at room temperature. They are of interest in wide-ranging fields including stretchable and flexible electronics, reconfigurable devices, microfluidics, biomedicine, material synthesis, and catalysis. Transformation of bulk liquid metal into particles has enabled further advances by allowing access to a broader palette of fabrication techniques for device manufacture or by increasing area available for surface-based applications. For gallium-based liquid metal alloys, particle stabilization is typically achieved by the oxide that forms spontaneously on the surface, even when only trace amounts of oxygen are present. The utility of the particles formed is governed by the chemical, electrical, and mechanical properties of this oxide. To overcome some of the intrinsic limitations of the native oxide, it is demonstrated here for the first time that 2D graphene-based materials can encapsulate liquid metal particles during fabrication and imbue them with previously unattainable properties. This outer encapsulation layer is used to physically stabilize particles in a broad range of pH environments, modify the particles' mechanical behavior, and control the electrical behavior of resulting films. This demonstration of graphene-based encapsulation of liquid metal particles represents a first foray into the creation of a suite of hybridized 2D material coated liquid metal particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Creighton
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH, USA.
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26
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Mou L, Qi J, Tang L, Dong R, Xia Y, Gao Y, Jiang X. Highly Stretchable and Biocompatible Liquid Metal-Elastomer Conductors for Self-Healing Electronics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e2005336. [PMID: 33236828 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202005336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Highly stretchable, conductive, biocompatible conductors, and connectors are crucial for the fabrication of flexible devices. However, it remains a problem to get highly stretchable, conductive materials with low cost on a large scale. Another problem in production is the connection between soft and rigid components. Here, a new conductive nanocomposite is reported by mixing the 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) modified liquid metal (LM) nanoparticles with polystyrene-block-polybutadiene-block-polystyrene (SBS), which is biocompatible (in vivo and in vitro), conductive (12 000 S cm-1 of conductivity), and stretchable (800% of elongation). Apart from its good performance, this material can be produced on a large scale by using a commercial polymer product and a straightforward physical production process. MUA is used to compromise the dense "gallium oxide shell" of liquid metal nanoparticles such that the whole composite can become conductive. By using resin to modify this composite, this new conductive material can be adhesive and highly conductive, and serve as a stable and efficient connector between soft conductor and rigid component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Mou
- National Center for NanoScience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No 1088, Xueyuan Rd., Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, P. R. China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510150, P. R. China
| | - Jie Qi
- National Center for NanoScience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No 1088, Xueyuan Rd., Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Lixue Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No 1088, Xueyuan Rd., Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Ruihua Dong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No 1088, Xueyuan Rd., Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yong Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510150, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Gao
- National Center for NanoScience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Xingyu Jiang
- National Center for NanoScience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No 1088, Xueyuan Rd., Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, P. R. China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510150, P. R. China
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27
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Creighton MA, Yuen MC, Susner MA, Farrell Z, Maruyama B, Tabor CE. Oxidation of Gallium-based Liquid Metal Alloys by Water. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:12933-12941. [PMID: 33090792 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c02086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Gallium alloys with other low melting point metals, such as indium or tin, to form room-temperature liquid eutectic systems. The gallium in the alloys rapidly forms a thin surface oxide when exposed to ambient oxygen. This surface oxide has been previously exploited for self-stabilization of liquid metal nanoparticles, retention of metastable shapes, and imparting stimuli-responsive behavior to the alloy surface. In this work, we study the effect of water as an oxidant and its role in defining the alloy surface chemistry. We identify several pathways that can lead to the formation of gallium oxide hydroxide (GaOOH) crystallites, which may be undesirable in many applications. Furthermore, we find that some crystallite formation pathways can be reinforced by typical top-down particle synthesis techniques like sonication. This improved understanding of interfacial interactions provides critical insight for process design and implementation of advanced devices that utilize the unique coupling of flexibility and conductivity offered by these gallium-based liquid metal alloys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Creighton
- National Research Council, Washington, DC 20001, United States
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Michelle C Yuen
- National Research Council, Washington, DC 20001, United States
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Michael A Susner
- UES, Inc., Dayton, Ohio 45431, United States
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Zachary Farrell
- UES, Inc., Dayton, Ohio 45431, United States
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Benji Maruyama
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Christopher E Tabor
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio 45433, United States
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28
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Neumann TV, Facchine EG, Leonardo B, Khan S, Dickey MD. Direct write printing of a self-encapsulating liquid metal-silicone composite. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:6608-6618. [PMID: 32613217 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm00803f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Silicone composites featuring inclusions of liquid metal particles are soft and stretchable materials with useful electric, dielectric, mechanical, and thermal properties. Until recently, these materials have primarily been cast as films. This work examines the possibility of using uncured liquid metal-elastomer (LME) composites as inks for direct writing. The liquid metal inclusions act as rheological modifiers for the silicone, forming a gel-structure that can be extruded from a nozzle and hold its shape after printing. Additionally, by tuning the particle size, larger particles in the printed structures can settle to form metal-rich regions at the bottom of the structures, encased by metal-depleted (insulating) regions. Using mechanical force, the liquid metal-rich interior can be rendered conductive by sintering without affecting the insulating exterior. Thus, it is possible to print this soft and stretchable material while creating conductors with self-insulating shells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor V Neumann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Emily G Facchine
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Brian Leonardo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Saad Khan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Michael D Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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29
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Malakooti MH, Bockstaller MR, Matyjaszewski K, Majidi C. Liquid metal nanocomposites. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2020; 2:2668-2677. [PMID: 36132412 PMCID: PMC9419082 DOI: 10.1039/d0na00148a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metal (LM) has attracted tremendous interest over the past decade for its enabling combination of high electrical and thermal conductivity and low mechanical compliance and viscosity. Efforts to harness LM in electronics, robotics, and biomedical applications have largely involved methods to encapsulate the liquid so that it can support functionality without leaking or smearing. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in LM "nanocomposites" in which either liquid metal is mixed with metallic nanoparticles or nanoscale droplets of liquid metal are suspended within a soft polymer matrix. Both of these material systems represent an important step towards utilizing liquid metal for breakthrough applications. In this minireview, we present a brief overview of recent progress over the past few years in methods to synthesize LM nanomaterials and utilize them as transducers for sensing, actuation, and energy harvesting. In particular, we focus on techniques for stable synthesis of LM nanodroplets, suspension of nanodroplets within various matrix materials, and methods for incorporating metallic nanoparticles within an LM matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Malakooti
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington Seattle WA 91895 USA
| | - Michael R Bockstaller
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
| | | | - Carmel Majidi
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
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30
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Uppal A, Ralphs M, Kong W, Hart M, Rykaczewski K, Wang RY. Pressure-Activated Thermal Transport via Oxide Shell Rupture in Liquid Metal Capsule Beds. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:2625-2633. [PMID: 31859474 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b17358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metal (LM)-based thermal interface materials (TIMs) have the potential to dissipate high heat loads in modern electronics and often consist of LM microcapsules embedded in a polymer matrix. The shells of these microcapsules consist of a thin LM oxide that forms spontaneously. Unfortunately, these oxide shells degrade heat transfer between LM capsules. Thus, rupturing these oxide shells to release their LM and effectively bridge the microcapsules is critical for achieving the full potential of LM-based TIMs. While this process has been studied from an electrical perspective, such results do not fully translate to thermal applications because electrical transport requires only a single percolation path. In this work, we introduce a novel method to study the rupture mechanics of beds composed solely of LM capsules. Specifically, by measuring the electrical and thermal resistances of capsule beds during compression, we can distinguish between the pressure at which capsule rupture initiates and the pressure at which widespread capsule rupture occurs. These pressures significantly differ, and we find that the pressure for widespread rupture corresponds to a peak in thermal conductivity during compression; hence, this pressure is more relevant to LM thermal applications. Next, we quantify the rupture pressure dependence on LM capsule age, size distribution, and oxide shell chemical treatment. Our results show that large freshly prepared capsules yield higher thermal conductivities and rupture more easily. We also show that chemically treating the oxide shell further facilitates rupture and increases thermal conductivity. We achieve a thermal conductivity of 16 W m-1 K-1 at a pressure below 0.2 MPa for capsules treated with dodecanethiol and hydrochloric acid. Importantly, this pressure is within the acceptable range for TIM applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aastha Uppal
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
| | - Matthew Ralphs
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
| | - Wilson Kong
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
| | - Matthew Hart
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
| | - Konrad Rykaczewski
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
| | - Robert Y Wang
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy , Arizona State University , Tempe , Arizona 85287 , United States
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