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Balakrishnan T, Sagadevan S, Le MV, Soga T, Oh WC. Recent Progress on Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots and Their Nanocomposites for Enhanced Gas Sensing Applications. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 14:11. [PMID: 38202466 PMCID: PMC10780593 DOI: 10.3390/nano14010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Gas-sensing technology has witnessed significant advancements that have been driven by the emergence of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and their tailored nanocomposites. This comprehensive review surveys the recent progress made in the construction methods and applications of functionalized GQDs and GQD-based nanocomposites for gas sensing. The gas-sensing mechanisms, based on the Fermi-level control and charge carrier depletion layer theory, are briefly explained through the formation of heterojunctions and the adsorption/desorption principle. Furthermore, this review explores the enhancements achieved through the incorporation of GQDs into nanocomposites with diverse matrices, including polymers, metal oxides, and 2D materials. We also provide an overview of the key progress in various hazardous gas sensing applications using functionalized GQDs and GQD-based nanocomposites, focusing on key detection parameters such as sensitivity, selectivity, stability, response and recovery time, repeatability, and limit of detection (LOD). According to the most recent data, the normally reported values for the LOD of various toxic gases using GQD-based sensors are in the range of 1-10 ppm. Remarkably, some GQD-based sensors exhibit extremely low detection limits, such as N-GQDs/SnO2 (0.01 ppb for formaldehyde) and GQD@SnO2 (0.10 ppb for NO2). This review provides an up-to-date perspective on the evolving landscape of functionalized GQDs and their nanocomposites as pivotal components in the development of advanced gas sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thivyah Balakrishnan
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
| | - Suresh Sagadevan
- Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Minh-Vien Le
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Tetsuo Soga
- Department of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Nagoya 466-8555, Japan
| | - Won-Chun Oh
- Department of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Hanseo University, Seosan 356-706, Republic of Korea
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Hadi H, Louis H, Gber TE, Ogungbemiro FO. Molecular modeling of the structural, electronic, excited state dynamic, and the photovoltaic properties of the oligomers of n-corannulene (n = 1-4). Heliyon 2023; 9:e20706. [PMID: 37860554 PMCID: PMC10582301 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that n-corannulene oligomers (n = 1-4) have a variety of electronic and optical properties, including the ability to be tuned and the potential to be used as light-harvesting materials, there has not been a computational assessment of their structural, electronic, and optical properties. Herein, a computational evaluation of the concerned materials regarding their potent use in solar cell technology has been conducted via DFT/CAM-B3LYP and M062X/6-311+G level of theory. It was observed that the calculated 1st frequency of the n-Corannulene (n = 1-4) were 144.15, 106.36, 48.96 and 42.21 respectively. Notably, the computed cohesive energy value increased as the number of Corannulene units increases while the electronic characteristics revealed that the chemical activity of the structures increased as the number of oligomers rose. Both calculation techniques demonstrate that the number of n-Corannulene oligomers increases the HOMO energy while decreasing the LUMO energy based on the external electric field (EF) effect. The findings demonstrated that as EF intensity increases, the energy gap (Eg/eV = |EHOMO-ELUMO|) of these molecular systems decreases which can be attributed to a decrease in the electron transfer potential barrier. The 4-Corannulene systems showed the highest wave length of adsorption for the investigated compound at 546.18 nm, with the highest oscillator strength of 0.2708 and the lowest transition energy of 2.2700 eV, arising from S0-S1 (H-L) and the highest major percentage contribution of 93.34 % in comparison to the investigated compounds. We are hopeful that this research will help experimental researchers understand the potential of n-Corannulene, specifically 4-corannulene, as powerful material for a variety of applications ranging from solar cell, photovoltaic properties and many others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Hadi
- Department of Chemistry, Physical Chemistry group, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hitler Louis
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam 603103, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Terkumbur E. Gber
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Festus O. Ogungbemiro
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
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Ejiofor EU, Ishebe JE, Benjamin I, Okon GA, Gber TE, Louis H. Exploring the potential of single-metals (Cu, Ni, Zn) decorated Al 12N 12 nanostructures as sensors for flutamide anticancer drug. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20682. [PMID: 37867907 PMCID: PMC10589786 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, scientists have been actively exploring and expanding biosensor technologies and materials to meet the growing societal demands in healthcare and other fields. This study aims to revolutionize biosensors by using density functional theory (DFT) at the cutting-edge B3LYP-GD3BJ/def2tzsvp level to investigate the sensing capabilities of (Cu, Ni, and Zn) doped on Aluminum nitride (Al12N12) nanostructures. Specifically, we focus on their potential to detect, analyze, and sense the drug flutamide (FLU) efficiently. Through advanced computational techniques, we explore molecular interactions to pave the way for highly effective and versatile biosensors. The adsorption energy values of -38.76 kcal/mol, -39.39 kcal/mol, and -39.37 kcal/mol for FLU@Cu-Al12N12, FLU@Ni-Al12N12, and FLU@Zn-Al12N12, respectively, indicate that FLU chemically adsorbs on the studied nanostructures. The reactivity and conductivity of the system follow a decreasing pattern: FLU@Cu-Al12N12 > FLU@Ni-Al12N12 > FLU@Zn-Al12N12, with a band gap of 0.267 eV, 2.197 eV, and 2.932 eV, respectively. These results suggest that FLU preferably adsorbs on the Al12N12@Cu surface. Natural bond orbital analysis reveals significant transitions in the studied system. Quantum theory of atom in molecule (QTAIM) and Non-covalent interaction (NCI) analysis confirm the nature and strength of interactions. Overall, our findings indicate that the doped surfaces show promise as electronic and biosensor materials for detection of FLU in real-world applications. We encourage experimental researchers to explore the use of (Cu, Ni, and Zn) doped on Aluminum nitride (Al12N12), particularly Al12N12@Cu, for biosensor applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel U. Ejiofor
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Clifford University, Owerrinta, Nigeria
| | | | - Innocent Benjamin
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Gideon A. Okon
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Terkumbur E. Gber
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Clifford University, Owerrinta, Nigeria
| | - Hitler Louis
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam 603103, Tamil Nadu, India
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Gber TE, Louis H, Ngana OC, Amodu IO, Ekereke EE, Benjamin I, Adalikwu SA, Adeyinka A. Yttrium- and zirconium-decorated Mg 12O 12-X (X = Y, Zr) nanoclusters as sensors for diazomethane (CH 2N 2) gas. RSC Adv 2023; 13:25391-25407. [PMID: 37636506 PMCID: PMC10448449 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra02939e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diazomethane (CH2N2) presents a notable hazard as a respiratory irritant, resulting in various adverse effects upon exposure. Consequently, there has been increasing concern in the field of environmental research to develop a sensor material that exhibits heightened sensitivity and conductivity for the detection and adsorption of this gas. Therefore, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the geometric structure of three systems: CH2N2@MgO (C1), CH2N2@YMgO (CY1), and CH2N2@ZrMgO (CZ1), in addition to pristine MgO nanocages. The investigation involves a theoretical analysis employing the DFT/ωB97XD method at the GenECP/6-311++G(d,p)/SDD level of theory. Notably, the examination of bond lengths within the MgO cage yielded specific values, including Mg15-O4 (1.896 Å), Mg19-O4 (1.952 Å), and Mg23-O4 (1.952 Å), thereby offering valuable insights into the structural properties and interactions with CH2N2 gas. Intriguingly, after the interaction, bond length variations were observed, with CH2N2@MgO exhibiting shorter bonds and CH2N2@YMgO showcasing longer bonds. Meanwhile, CH2N2@ZrMgO displayed shorter bonds, except for a longer bond in Mg19-O4, suggesting increased stability due to shorter bond distances. The study further investigated the electronic properties, revealing changes in the energy gap that influenced electrical conductivity and sensitivity. The energy gap increased for Zr@MgO, CH2N2@MgO, CH2N2@YMgO, and CH2N2@ZrMgO, indicating weak interactions on the MgO surface. Conversely, Y@MgO showed a decrease in energy, suggesting a strong interaction. The pure MgO surface exhibited the ability to donate and accept electrons, resulting in an energy gap of 4.799 eV. Surfaces decorated with yttrium and zirconium exhibited decreased energies of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), as well as decreased energy gap, indicating increased conductivity and sensitivity. Notably, Zr@MgO had the highest energy gap before CH2N2 adsorption, but C1 exhibited a significantly higher energy gap after adsorption, implying increased conductivity and sensitivity. The study also examined the density of states, demonstrating significant variations in the electronic properties of MgO and its decorated surfaces due to CH2N2 adsorption. Moreover, various analysis techniques were employed, including natural bond orbital (NBO), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), and noncovalent interaction (NCI) analysis, which provided insights into bonding, charge density, and intermolecular interactions. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the sensing mechanisms of CH2N2 gas on nanocage surfaces, shedding light on adsorption energy, conductivity, and recovery time. These results hold significance for gas-sensing applications and provide a basis for further exploration and development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terkumbur E Gber
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Hitler Louis
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education Kelambakkam-603103 Tamil Nadu India
| | - Obinna C Ngana
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Federal University of Wukari Wukari Taraba State Nigeria
| | - Ismail O Amodu
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Ernest E Ekereke
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Innocent Benjamin
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Stephen A Adalikwu
- Computational and Bio-Simulation Research Group, University of Calabar Calabar Nigeria
| | - Adedapo Adeyinka
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg South Africa
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