Fabricating BiOCl Nanoflake/FeOCl Nanospindle Heterostructures for Efficient Visible-Light Photocatalysis

Fabricating heterostructures with abundant interfaces and delicate nanoarchitectures is an attractive approach for optimizing photocatalysts. Herein, we report the facile synthesis of BiOCl nanoflake/FeOCl nanospindle heterostructures through a solution chemistry method at room temperature. Characterizations, including XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS, and XPS, were employed to investigate the synthesized materials. The results demonstrate that the in situ reaction between the Bi precursors and the surface Cl- of FeOCl enabled the bounded nucleation and growth of BiOCl on the surface of FeOCl nanospindles. Stable interfacial structures were established between BiOCl nanoflakes and FeOCl nanospindles using Cl- as the bridge. Regulating the Bi-to-Fe ratios allowed for the optimization of the BiOCl/FeOCl interface, thereby facilitating the separation of photogenerated carriers and accelerating the photocatalytic degradation of RhB. The BiOCl/FeOCl heterostructures with an optimal composition of 15% BiOCl exhibited ~90 times higher visible-light photocatalytic activity than FeOCl. Based on an analysis of the band structures and reactive oxygen species, we propose an S-scheme mechanism to elucidate the significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance observed in the BiOCl/FeOCl heterostructures.

Current Trends in Nanomaterials for Metal Oxide-Based Conductometric Gas Sensors: Advantages and Limitations-Part 2: Porous 2D Nanomaterials

This article discusses the features of the synthesis and application of porous two-dimensional nanomaterials in developing conductometric gas sensors based on metal oxides. It is concluded that using porous 2D nanomaterials and 3D structures based on them is a promising approach to improving the parameters of gas sensors, such as sensitivity and the rate of response. The limitations that may arise when using 2D structures in gas sensors intended for the sensor market are considered.

Synthesis of MAX Phase Nanofibers and Nanoflakes and the Resulting MXenes

Layered ternary carbides and nitrides, also known as MAX phases, have attracted enormous attention for many applications, especially as precursors to produce 2D metal carbides and nitrides called MXenes. However, it is still challenging to tune and control the shape/morphology of MAX phase particles at the nanoscale, as they are typically manufactured as large grains using ceramic technology. Herein, nanostructured Ti-Al-C MAX phases with fine-tuned morphology of nanofibers and nanoflakes are prepared by using 1D and 2D carbon precursors at a synthesis temperature of 900 °C. The nanostructured MAX phases are used as precursors to produce nanosized multilayered MXenes, with a considerably shorter etching time and a low reaction temperature. These nanosized MXenes exhibit good electrochemical lithium-ion storage properties and a pseudocapacitive electrochemical signature. The obtained Ti2 CTx MXene electrode can deliver delithiation capacity of 300 mAh g-1 at low rates and 100 mAh g-1 when the lithiation/delithiation cycle happens within 30 s. Availability of nanoscale MAX phases and MXene nanoflakes with small lateral size may open new opportunities for both classes of materials.

Role of Alkylamines in Tuning the Morphology and Optical Properties of SnS2 Nanoparticles Synthesized by via Facile Thermal Decomposition Approach

The present study reported the synthesis of SnS₂ nanoparticles by using a thermal decomposition approach using tin chloride and thioacetamide in diphenyl ether at 200 °C over 60 min. SnS₂ nanoparticles with novel morphologies were prepared by the use of different alkylamines (namely, octylamine (OCA), dodecylamine (DDA), and oleylamine (OLA)), and their role during the synthesis was explored in detail. The synthesized SnS₂ nanostructures were characterized using an array of analytical techniques. The XRD results confirmed the formation of hexagonal SnS₂, and the crystallite size varied from 6.1 nm to 19.0 nm and from 2.5 to 8.8 nm for (100) and (011) reflections, respectively. The functional group and thermal analysis confirmed the presence of organics on the surface of nanoparticles. The FE-SEM results revealed nanoparticles, nanoplates, and flakes assembled into flower-like morphologies when dodecylamine, octylamine, and oleylamine were used as capping agents, respectively. The analysis of optical properties showed the variation in the bandgap and the concentration of surface defects on the SnS₂ nanoparticles. The role of alkylamine as a capping agent was explored and discussed in detail in this paper and the mechanism for the evolution of different morphologies of SnS₂ nanoparticles was also proposed.

Preparation of Nickel Oxide Nanoflakes for Carrier Extraction and Transport in Perovskite Solar Cells

Hole transport layers (HTLs) with high conductivity, charge extraction ability, and carrier transport capability are highly important for fabricating perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with high power conversion efficiency and device stability. Low interfacial recombination between the HTL and perovskite absorber is also crucial to the device performance of PSCs. In this work, we developed a three-stage method to prepare NiO_x nanoflakes as the HTL in the inverted PSCs. Due to the addition of the nanoflake layer, the deposited perovskite films with larger grain sizes and fewer boundaries were obtained, implying higher photogenerated current and fill factors in our PSCs. Meanwhile, the downshifted valence band of the NiO_x HTL improved hole extraction from the perovskite absorber and open-circuit voltages of PSCs. The optimized device based on the NiO_x nanoflakes showed the highest efficiency of 14.21% and a small hysteresis, which outperformed the NiO_x thin film as the HTL. Furthermore, the device maintained 83% of its initial efficiency after 60 days of storage. Our results suggest that NiO_x nanoflakes provide great potential for constructing PSCs with high efficiency and long-term stability.

Binder-Free Zinc-Iron Oxide as a High-Performance Negative Electrode Material for Pseudocapacitors

The interaction between cathode and anode materials is critical for developing a high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor (SC). Significant advances have been made for cathode materials, while the anode is comparatively less explored for SC applications. Herein, we proposed a high-performance binder-free anode material composed of two-dimensional ZnFe₂O₄ nanoflakes supported on carbon cloth (ZFO-NF@CC). The electrochemical performance of ZFO-NF@CC as an anode material for supercapacitor application was examined in a KOH solution via a three-electrode configuration. The ZFO-NF@CC electrode demonstrated a specific capacitance of 509 F g^-1 at 1.5 A g^-1 and was retained 94.2% after 10,000 GCD cycles. The ZFO-NF@CC electrode showed exceptional charge storage properties by attaining high pseudocapacitive-type storage. Furthermore, an asymmetric SC device was fabricated using ZFO-NF@CC as an anode and activated carbon on CC (AC@CC) as a cathode with a KOH-based aqueous electrolyte (ZFO-NF@CC||AC@CC). The ZFO-NF@CC||AC@CC yielded a high specific capacitance of 122.2 F g^-1 at a current density of 2 A g^-1, a high energy density of 55.044 Wh kg^-1 at a power density of 1801.44 W kg^-1, with a remarkable retention rate of 96.5% even after 4000 cycles was attained. Thus, our results showed that the enhanced electrochemical performance of ZFO-NF@CC used as an anode in high-performance SC applications can open new research directions for replacing carbon-based anode materials.

Studying Plasmon Dispersion of MXene for Enhanced Electromagnetic Absorption

2D metal carbides and nitrides (MXene) are promising candidates for electromagnetic (EM) shielding, saturable absorption, thermal therapy, and photocatalysis owing to their excellent EM absorption. The plasmon resonances in metallic MXene micro/nanostructures may play an important role in enhancing the EM absorption; however, their contribution has not been determined due to the lack of a precise understanding of its plasmon behavior. Here, the use of high-spatial-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy to measure the plasmon dispersion of MXene films with different thicknesses is reported, enabling accurate analysis of the EM absorption of complex MXene structures in a wide frequency range via a theoretical model. The EM absorption of MXene can be excited at the desired frequency by controlling the momentum (e.g., the sizes of the nanoflakes for EM excitation) as the strength can be enhanced by increasing the layer number and the interlayer distance in MXene. For example, a 3 nm interlayer distance can nearly double the plasmon-enhanced EM absorption in MXene nanostructures. These findings can guide the design of advanced ultrathin EM absorption materials for a broad range of applications.

Mesoporous NiCo2S4nanoflakes as an efficient and durable electrocatalyst for non-enzymatic detection of cholesterol

The detection of cholesterol is very crucial in clinical diagnosis for rapid and accurate monitoring of multiple disease-biomarkers. There is a great need for construction of a highly reliable and stable electrocatalyst for the efficient detection of cholesterol. In this work, mesoporous NiCo₂S₄nanoflakes of enhanced electrochemical properties are prepared through a facile hydrothermal approach. The developed nanoflakes modified nickel foam electrode exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic properties for the detection of cholesterol with high selectivity. The electrode displays excellent sensitivity of 8623.6μA mM^-1cm^-2, in the wide linear range from 0.01 to 0.25 mM with a low detection limit of 0.01μM. In addition, NiCo₂S₄structure reveals good thermal stability and reproducibility over a period of 8 weeks. Moreover, the nanoflakes show good response for detection of cholesterol in real samples. Our results demonstrate the potential use of NiCo₂S₄as a catalyst for the development of cost-effective electrochemical sensors for medical and industrial applications.

Foam Synthesis of Nickel/Nickel (II) Hydroxide Nanoflakes Using Double Templates of Surfactant Liquid Crystal and Hydrogen Bubbles: A High-Performance Catalyst for Methanol Electrooxidation in Alkaline Solution

This work demonstrates the chemical synthesis of two-dimensional nanoflakes of mesoporous nickel/nickel (II) hydroxide (Ni/Ni(OH)₂-NFs) using double templates of surfactant self-assembled thin-film and foam of hydrogen bubbles produced by sodium borohydride reducing agent. Physicochemical characterizations show the formation of amorphous mesoporous 2D nanoflakes with a Ni/Ni(OH)₂ structure and a high specific surface area (165 m²/g). Electrochemical studies show that the electrocatalytic activity of Ni/Ni(OH)₂ nanoflakes towards methanol oxidation in alkaline solution is significantly enhanced in comparison with that of parent bare-Ni(OH)₂ deposited from surfactant-free solution. Cyclic voltammetry shows that the methanol oxidation mass activity of Ni/Ni(OH)₂-NFs reaches 545 A/cm² g_cat at 0.6 V vs. Ag/AgCl, which is more than five times higher than that of bare-Ni(OH)₂. Moreover, Ni/Ni(OH)₂-NFs reveal less charge transfer resistance (10.4 Ω), stable oxidation current density (625 A/cm² g_cat at 0.7 V vs. Ag/AgCl), and resistance to the adsorption of reaction intermediates and products during three hours of constant-potential methanol oxidation electrolysis in alkaline solution. The high-performance electrocatalytic activity of Ni/Ni(OH)₂ nanoflakes is mainly derived from efficient charge transfer due to the high specific surface area of the 2D mesoporous architecture of the nanoflakes, as well as the mass transport of methanol to Ni²⁺/Ni³⁺ active sites throughout the catalyst layer.

Thickness Dependence of Superconductivity in Layered Topological Superconductor β-PdBi2

We report a systematic study on the thickness-dependent superconductivity and transport properties in exfoliated layered topological superconductor β-PdBi2. The superconducting transition temperature Tc is found to decrease with the decreasing thickness. Below a critical thickness of 45 nm, the superconductivity is suppressed, but followed by an abrupt resistance jump near Tc, which is in opposite to the behavior in a superconductor. We attribute suppressed Tc to the enhanced disorder as the thickness decreases. The possible physical mechanisms were discussed for the origination of sharply increased resistance in thinner β-PdBi2 samples.

Plastic Forming of Graphene Oxide Membranes into 3D Structures

Flat, membrane-like materials made of graphene oxide (GO) nanoflakes have extraordinary mechanical properties including high stiffness, high strength, and low weight. However, the forming of complex nonplanar structures from flat GO membranes is difficult because of the intrinsic brittleness of GO. Here we present a simple and low-cost method to plasticize vacuum-filtrated GO membranes using a cellulose additive. Compared with the pure GO membrane, the GO-cellulose membranes had a lower Young's modulus but significantly improved ductility. Using the flat GO-cellulose membrane, we successfully embossed hemispherical caps with high geometrical fidelity, smooth surfaces, and no tearing or other damages to the membrane. The stiffness of the embossed 3D structure was increased further by cross-linking with a borax solution. Hemispherical caps made of 75 wt % GO with 25 wt % cellulose slurry combining borax cross-linking showed the highest stiffness. This study extends the applications of GO membranes and allows the harnessing of their extraordinary properties to nonplanar structures.

Microribbons composed of directionally self-assembled nanoflakes as highly stretchable ionic neural electrodes

Many natural materials possess built-in structural variation, endowing them with superior performance. However, it is challenging to realize programmable structural variation in self-assembled synthetic materials since self-assembly processes usually generate uniform and ordered structures. Here, we report the formation of asymmetric microribbons composed of directionally self-assembled two-dimensional nanoflakes in a polymeric matrix during three-dimensional direct-ink printing. The printed ribbons with embedded structural variations show site-specific variance in their mechanical properties. Remarkably, the ribbons can spontaneously transform into ultrastretchable springs with controllable helical architecture upon stimulation. Such springs also exhibit superior nanoscale transport behavior as nanofluidic ionic conductors under even ultralarge tensile strains (>1,000%). Furthermore, to show possible real-world uses of such materials, we demonstrate in vivo neural recording and stimulation using such springs in a bullfrog animal model. Thus, such springs can be used as neural electrodes compatible with soft and dynamic biological tissues.

Novel Exfoliation of High-Quality 2H-MoS2 Nanoflakes for Solution-Processed Photodetector

Highly dispersive molybdenum disulfide nanoflakes (MoS₂ NFs), without any phase transition during the exfoliation process, are desirable for full utilization of their semiconductor properties in practical applications. Here, we demonstrate an innovate approach for fabricating MoS₂ NFs by using hydrazine-assisted ball milling via the synergetic effect of chemical intercalation and mechanical exfoliation. The NFs obtained have a lateral size of 600–800 nm, a thickness less than 3 nm, and high crystallinity in the 2H semiconducting phase. They form a stable dispersion in various solvents, which will be helpful for many applications, due to the oxygen functional group. To investigate production of a two-dimensional (2D) photodetector, 2D semiconducting MoS₂, MoS₂–p-Si vertical devices were fabricated, and their optical properties were characterized. The photodiode exhibited consistent responses with excellent photo-switching characteristics with wavelengths of 850, 530, and 400 nm.

Development of ZnO Nanoflake Type Structures Using Silk Fibres as Template for Water Pollutants Remediation

We have fabricated ZnO nanoflake structures using degummed silk fibers as templates, via soaking and calcining the silk fibers bearing ZnO nanoparticles at 150 °C for 6 h. The obtained ZnO nanostructures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopic analysis. The size (~500–700 nm) in length and thicknesses (~60 nm) of ZnO nanoflakes were produced. The catalysis performances of ZnO nanoflakes on silk fibers (ZnSk) via photo-degradation of naphthalene (93% in 256 min), as well as Rose Bengal dye removal (~1.7 mM g⁻¹) through adsorption from aqueous solution, were practically observed. Further, ZnSk displayed superb antibacterial activity against the tested model gram-negative Escherichia coli bacterium. The produced ZnSk has huge scope to be used for real-world water contaminants remediation applications.

Ab Initio Study of Ferroelectric Critical Size of SnTe Low-Dimensional Nanostructures

Beyond a ferroelectric critical thickness of several nanometers existed in conventional ferroelectric perovskite oxides, ferroelectricity in ultimately thin dimensions was recently discovered in SnTe monolayers. This discovery suggests the possibility that SnTe can sustain ferroelectricity during further low-dimensional miniaturization. Here, we investigate a ferroelectric critical size of low-dimensional SnTe nanostructures such as nanoribbons (1D) and nanoflakes (0D) using first-principle density-functional theory calculations. We demonstrate that the smallest (one-unit-cell width) SnTe nanoribbon can sustain ferroelectricity and there is no ferroelectric critical size in the SnTe nanoribbons. On the other hand, the SnTe nanoflakes form a vortex of polarization and lose their toroidal ferroelectricity below the surface area of 4 × 4 unit cells (about 25 Å on one side). We also reveal the atomic and electronic mechanism of the absence or presence of critical size in SnTe low-dimensional nanostructures. Our result provides an insight into intrinsic ferroelectric critical size for low-dimensional chalcogenide layered materials.

In Situ Formation of Nanoporous Silicon on a Silicon Wafer via the Magnesiothermic Reduction Reaction (MRR) of Diatomaceous Earth

Successful direct route production of silicon nanostructures from diatomaceous earth (DE) on a single crystalline silicon wafer via the magnesiothermic reduction reaction is reported. The formed porous coating of 6 µm overall thickness contains silicon as the majority phase along with minor traces of Mg, as evident from SEM-EDS and the Focused Ion Beam (FIB) analysis. Raman peaks of silicon at 519 cm^-1 and 925 cm^-1 were found in both the film and wafer substrate, and significant intensity variation was observed, consistent with the SEM observation of the directly formed silicon nanoflake layer. Microstructural analysis of the flakes reveals the presence of pores and cavities partially retained from the precursor diatomite powder. A considerable reduction in surface reflectivity was observed for the silicon nanoflakes, from 45% for silicon wafer to below 15%. The results open possibilities for producing nanostructured silicon with a vast range of functionalities.

One-Step Synthesis of Self-Supported Ni3S2/NiS Composite Film on Ni Foam by Electrodeposition for High-Performance Supercapacitors

Herein, a facile one-step electrodeposition route was presented for preparing Ni₃S₂/NiS composite film on Ni foam substrate (denoted as NiS_x/NF). The NiS_x granular film is composed of mangy interconnected ultra-thin NiS_x nanoflakes with porous structures. When applied as electrodes for supercapacitors, the ultra-thin nanoflakes can provide more active sites for redox reaction, and the interconnected porous structure has an advantage for electrolyte ions to penetrate into the inner space of active materials quickly. As expected, the obtained NiS_x/NF sample exhibited high gravimetric capacitance of 1649.8 F·g⁻¹ and areal capacitance of 2.63 F·cm⁻². Furthermore, a gravimetric capacitance of 1120.1 F·g⁻¹ can be maintained at a high current density of 20 mA·cm⁻², suggesting a good rate capability. The influence of the different molar ratios of electrodeposition electrolyte (NiNO₃ and thiourea) on the morphology and electrochemical properties of NiS_x/NF sample was investigated to provide an optimum route for one-step electrodeposition of Ni₃S₂/NiS composite film. The outstanding performance indicated the Ni₃S₂/NiS composite film on Ni foam has great potential as an electrode material for supercapacitors.

Direct observation of oxygen-vacancy formation and structural changes in Bi2WO6 nanoflakes induced by electron irradiation

The prominent role of oxygen vacancies in the photocatalytic performance of bismuth tungsten oxides is well recognized, while the underlying formation mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we use the transmission electron microscopy to investigate the formation of oxygen vacancies and the structural evolution of Bi₂WO₆ under in situ electron irradiation. Our experimental results reveal that under 200 keV electron irradiation, the breaking of relatively weak Bi-O bonds leads to the formation of oxygen vacancies in Bi₂WO₆. With prolonged electron irradiation, the reduced Bi cations tend to form Bi clusters on the nanoflake surfaces, and the oxygen atoms are released from the nanoflakes, while the W-O networks reconstruct to form WO₃. A possible mechanism that accounts for the observed processes of Bi cluster formation and oxygen release under energetic electron irradiation is also discussed.

Bottom-Up Grown 2D InSb Nanostructures

Low-dimensional high-quality InSb materials are promising candidates for next-generation quantum devices due to the high carrier mobility, low effective mass, and large g-factor of the heavy element compound InSb. Various quantum phenomena are demonstrated in InSb 2D electron gases and nanowires. A combination of the best features of these two systems (pristine nanoscale and flexible design) is desirable to realize, e.g., the multiterminal topological Josephson device. Here, controlled growth of 2D nanostructures, nanoflakes, on an InSb platform is demonstrated. An assembly of nanoflakes with various dimensions and morphologies, thinner than the Bohr radius of InSb, are fabricated. Importantly, the growth of either nanowires or nanoflakes can be enforced experimentally by setting growth and substrate design parameters properly. Hall bar measurements on the nanostructures yield mobilities up to ≈20 000 cm² V^-1 s^-1 and detect quantum Hall plateaus. This allows to see the system as a viable nanoscale 2D platform for future quantum devices.

Reduced graphene oxide supported C3N4 nanoflakes and quantum dots as metal-free catalysts for visible light assisted CO2 reduction

The visible light photocatalytic reduction of CO₂ to fuel is crucial for the sustainable development of energy resources. In our present work, we report the synthesis of novel reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-supported C₃N₄ nanoflake (NF) and quantum dot (QD) hybrid materials (GCN) for visible light induced reduction of CO₂. The C₃N₄ NFs and QDs are prepared by acid treatment of C₃N₄ nanosheets followed by ultrasonication and hydrothermal heating at 130-190 °C for 5-20 h. It is observed that hydrothermal exposure of acid-treated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) nanosheets at low temperature generated larger NFs, whereas QDs are formed at higher temperatures. The formation of GCN hybrid materials was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV-vis spectroscopy. High-resolution TEM images clearly show that C₃N₄ QDs (average diameter of 2-3 nm) and NFs (≈20-45 nm) are distributed on the rGO surface within the GCN hybrid material. Among the as-prepared GCN hybrid materials, GCN-5 QDs exhibit excellent CO₂ reductive activity for the generation of formaldehyde, HCHO (10.3 mmol h^-1 g^-1). Therefore, utilization of metal-free carbon-based GCN hybrid materials could be very promising for CO₂ photoreduction because of their excellent activity and environmental sustainability.

Doxorubicin Loaded Magnesium Oxide Nanoflakes as pH Dependent Carriers for Simultaneous Treatment of Cancer and Hypomagnesemia

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anticancer drug commonly used in treating cancer; however, it has severe cytotoxicity effects. To overcome both the adverse effects of the drug and mineral deficiency (i.e., hypomagnesemia) experienced by cancer patients, we have developed magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoflakes as drug carriers and loaded them with DOX for use as a targeted drug delivery (TDD) system for potential application in cancer therapy. The synthesis employed herein affords pure, highly porous MgO nanoparticles that are void of the potentially harmful metal contaminants often discussed in the literature. Purposed for dual therapy, the nanoparticles exhibit an impressive 90% drug loading capacity with pH dependent drug releasing rates of 10% at pH 7.2, 50.5% at pH 5.0, and 90.2% at pH 3. Results indicate that therapy is achievable via slow diffusion where MgO nanoflakes degrade (i.e., dissolve) under acidic conditions releasing the drug and magnesium ions to the cancerous region. The TDD system therefore minimizes cytotoxicity to healthy cells while supplying magnesium ions to overcome hypomagnesemia.

Cyano-Bridged Cu-Ni Coordination Polymer Nanoflakes and Their Thermal Conversion to Mixed Cu-Ni Oxides

Herein, we demonstrate the bottom-up synthesis of 2D cyano-bridged Cu-Ni coordination polymer (CP) nanoflakes through a controlled crystallization process and their conversion to Cu-Ni mixed oxides via a thermal treatment in air. The chelating effect of citrate anions effectively prevents the rapid coordination reaction between Cu²⁺ and K₂[Ni(CN)₄], resulting in the deceleration of the crystallization process of CPs. Specifically, with addition of trisodium citrate dehydrate, the number of nuclei formed at the early stage of the reaction is decreased. Less nuclei undergo a crystal growth by interacting with [Ni(CN)₄]^2-, leading to the formation of larger Cu-Ni CP nanoflakes. Following heat treatment in air, the -CN- groups present within the CP nanoflakes are removed and nanoporous Cu-Ni mixed oxide nanoflakes are generated. When tested as an electrode material for supercapacitors using a three-electrode system, the optimum Cu-Ni mixed oxide sample shows a maximum specific capacitance of 158 F g^-1 at a current density of 1 A g^-1. It is expected that the proposed method will be useful for the preparation of other types of 2D and 3D CPs as precursors for the creation of various nanoporous metal oxides.

Strain-Gradient Effect in Gas Sensors Based on Three-Dimensional Hollow Molybdenum Disulfide Nanoflakes

A novel three-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) structure consisting of seamless hollow nanoflakes on two-dimensional basal layers was synthesized by a one-step chemical vapor deposition method. Here, we demonstrate that the as-grown nanoflakes are formed on an organic promoter layer which served as a positive template and are swollen at the grain boundaries by the bubbling effect. TMD nanosheets with hollow nanoflakes are successfully applied as chemical sensors, and it was found that their gas adsorption property is strongly related to the internal strain gradient resulting from the variation in the lattice parameter. This result is consistent with the theoretical prediction in previous studies. Our chemical vapor deposition-based approach is an efficient way to generate TMD-based nanostructures over a large surface area for various practical applications such as chemical sensors.

Manganese molybdate nanoflakes on silicon microchannel plates as novel nano energetic material

Nano energetic materials have attracted great attention recently owing to their potential applications for both civilian and military purposes. By introducing silicon microchannel plates (Si-MCPs) three-dimensional (3D)-ordered structures, monocrystalline MnMoO4 with a size of tens of micrometres and polycrystalline MnMoO4 nanoflakes are produced on the surface and sidewall of nickel-coated Si-MCP, respectively. The MnMoO4 crystals ripen controllably forming polycrystalline nanoflakes with lattice fringes of 0.542 nm corresponding to the [Formula: see text] plane on the sidewall. And these MnMoO4 nanoflakes show apparent thermite performance which is rarely reported and represents MnMoO4 becoming a new category of energetic materials after nanocrystallization. Additionally, the nanocrystallization mechanism is interpreted by ionic diffusion caused by 3D structure. The results indicate that the Si-MCP is a promising substrate for nanocrystallization of energetic materials such as MnMoO4.

A One-Step Approach to the Synthesis of High Aspect Ratio Titania Nanoflakes

High aspect ratio TiO2 nanoflakes are synthesized by a one-step modified surface hydrolysis method. Surface morphology and physical dimensions are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Microsized flakes having a thickness ≈40 nm are successfully synthesized by spreading an oil phase consisting of titanium tetraisopropoxide and a low surface tension hydrocarbon on the surface of water. Pure anatase phase crystalline titania nanoflakes are obtained by calcining at 400 °C without changing the shape and thickness of flakes. Relatively higher specific surface area (2-6 times) and less crystal defects enhance photocatalytic activities of nanoflakes due to more surface reaction sites and the suppression of fast recombination. By performing dye degradation under ultraviolet illumination, titania nanoflakes exhibit the higher photocatalytic efficiency over the commercial photocatalyst, Degussa P25. As far as it is known, this method is the most efficient and cost effective process for making low-dimensional nanomaterials in a continuous manner. These titania flakes can be easily separated from the treated water by simply sedimentation or filtration and therefore is very suitable for water purification application.

Ultradispersed and Single-Layered MoS2 Nanoflakes Strongly Coupled with Graphene: An Optimized Structure with High Kinetics for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

As one of the most promising Pt alternatives for cost-effective hydrogen production, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), although has been studied extensively to improve its electrocatalytic activity, suffers from scarce active sites, low conductivity, and lack of interaction with substrates. To this end, we anchor ultradispersed and single-layered MoS₂ nanoflakes on graphene sheets via a hybrid intermediate (MoO_x-cysteine-graphene oxide), which not only confines the subsequent growth of MoS₂ on the graphene surface but also ensures the intimate interaction between Mo species and graphene at the initial stage. Mo-O-C bond and a possible residual MoO_3-x layer are proposed to comprise the interface bridging the two inherent incompatible phases, MoS₂ and graphene. This strongly coupled structure together with the highly exposed MoS₂ morphology accelerates the electron injection from graphene to the active sites of MoS₂, and thus the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) can achieve an overpotential of ∼275 mV at ∼-740 mA cm^-2, and a Pt-like Tafel slope of ∼35 mV dec^-1. Our results shed light on the indispensable role of interfacial interaction within semiconducting material-nanocarbon composites and provide a new insight into the actual activity of MoS₂ toward the HER.

Highly Sensitive Flexible Photodetectors Based on Self-Assembled Tin Monosulfide Nanoflakes with Graphene Electrodes

Tin monosulfide (SnS) nanostructures have attracted huge attention recently because of their high absorption coefficient, high photoconversion efficiencies, low energy cost, ease of deposition, and so on. Here, in this paper, we report on the low-cost hydrothermal synthesis of the self-assembled SnS nanoflake-like structures in terms of performance for the photodetectors. High-performance photodetectors were fabricated using SnS nanoflakes as active layers and graphene as the lateral electrodes. The SnS photodetectors exhibited excellent photoresponse properties with a high responsivity of 1.7 × 10⁴ A/W and have fast response and recovery times. In addition, the photodetectors exhibited long-term stability and strong dependence of photocurrent on light intensity. These excellent characteristics were attributed to the larger surface-to-volume ratio of the self-assembled SnS nanoflakes and the effective separation of the photogenerated carriers at graphene/SnS interfaces. Additionally, a flexible photodetector based on SnS nanoflakes was also fabricated on a flexible substrate that demonstrated similar photosensitive properties. Furthermore, this study also demonstrates the potential of hydrothermal-processed SnS nanoflakes for high-performance photodetectors and their application in flexible low-cost optoelectronic devices.

Synthesis of Distinct Iron Oxide Nanomaterial Shapes Using Lyotropic Liquid Crystal Solvents

A room temperature reduction-hydrolysis of Fe(III) precursors such as FeCl₃ or Fe(acac)₃ in various lyotropic liquid crystal phases (lamellar, hexagonal columnar, or micellar) formed by a range of ionic or neutral surfactants in H₂O is shown to be an effective and mild approach for the preparation of iron oxide (IO) nanomaterials with several morphologies (shapes and dimensions), such as extended thin nanosheets with lateral dimensions of several hundred nanometers as well as smaller nanoflakes and nanodiscs in the tens of nanometers size regime. We will discuss the role of the used surfactants and lyotropic liquid crystal phases as well as the shape and size differences depending upon when and how the resulting nanomaterials were isolated from the reaction mixture. The presented synthetic methodology using lyotropic liquid crystal solvents should be widely applicable to several other transition metal oxides for which the described reduction-hydrolysis reaction sequence is a suitable pathway to obtain nanoscale particles.

VO2 Nanoflakes as the Cathode Material of Hybrid Magnesium-Lithium-Ion Batteries with High Energy Density

The hybrid magnesium-lithium-ion batteries (MLIBs) combining the dendrite-free deposition of the Mg anode and the fast Li intercalation cathode are better alternatives to Li-ion batteries (LIBs) in large-scale power storage systems. In this article, we reported hybrid MLIBs assembled with the VO₂ cathode, dendrite-free Mg anode, and the Mg-Li dual-salt electrolyte. Satisfactorily, the VO₂ cathode delivered a stable plateau at about 1.75 V, and a high specific discharge capacity of 244.4 mA h g^-1. To the best of our knowledge, the VO₂ cathode displays the highest energy density of 427 Wh kg^-1 among reported MLIBs in coin-type batteries. In addition, an excellent rate performance and a wide operating temperature window from 0 to 55 °C have been obtained. The combination of VO₂ cathode, dual-salt electrolyte, and Mg anode would pave the way for the development of high energy density, safe, and low-cost batteries.

Arrays of Ultrathin CdS Nanoflakes with High-Energy Surface for Efficient Gas Detection

It is fascinating and challenging to endow conventional materials with unprecedented properties. For instance, cadmium sulfide (CdS) is an important semiconductor with excellent light response; however, its potential in gas-sensing was underestimated owing to relatively low chemical activity and poor electrical conductivity. Herein, we demonstrate that an ideal architecture, ultrathin nanoflake arrays (NFAs), can improve significantly gas-sensing properties of CdS material. The CdS NFAs are grown directly on the interdigitated electrode to expose large surface area. Their thickness is reduced below the double Debye length of CdS, permitting to achieve a full depletion of carriers. Particularly, the prepared CdS nanoflakes are enclosed with high-energy {0001} facets exposed, which provides more active sites for gas adsorption. Moreover, the NFAs exhibit the light-trapping effect, which further enhances their gas sensitivity. As a result, the as-prepared CdS NFAs demonstrate excellent gas-sensing and light-response properties, thus being capable of dual gas and light detection.

Energy-Efficient Hydrogenated Zinc Oxide Nanoflakes for High-Performance Self-Powered Ultraviolet Photodetector

Light absorption efficiency and doping induced charge carrier density play a vital role in self-powered optoelectronic devices. Unique vanadium-doped zinc oxide nanoflake array (VZnO NFs) is fabricated for self-powered ultraviolet (UV) photodetection. The light harvesting efficiency drastically improved from 84% in ZnO NRs to 98% in VZnO NFs. Moreover, the hydrogenation of as-synthesized VZnO (H:VZnO) NFs displayed an outstanding increase in response current as compared to pristine structures. The H:VZnO NFs device presents an extraordinary photoelastic behavior with faster photodetection speed in the order of ms under a low UV illumination signal. Excellent responsivity and external quantum efficiency with larger value of specific detectivity of H:VZnO NFs device promises an outstanding sensitivity for UV signal and self-powered high-performance visible-blind photodetector.

CuWO4 Nanoflake Array-Based Single-Junction and Heterojunction Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation

Over recent years, tremendous efforts have been invested in the search and development of active and durable semiconductor materials for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, particularly for photoanodes operating under a highly oxidizing environment. CuWO4 is an emerging candidate with suitable band gap and high chemical stability. Nevertheless, its overall solar-to-electricity remains low because of the inefficient charge separation process. In this work, we demonstrate that this problem can be partly alleviated through designing three-dimensional hierarchical nanostructures. CuWO4 nanoflake arrays on conducting glass are prepared from the chemical conversion of WO3 templates. Resulting electrode materials possess large surface areas, abundant porosity and small thickness. Under illumination, our CuWO4 nanoflake array photoanodes exhibit an anodic current density of ∼0.4 mA/cm(2) at the thermodynamic potential of water splitting in pH 9.5 potassium borate buffer--the largest value among all available CuWO4-based photoanodes. In addition, we demonstrate that their performance can be further boosted to >2 mA/cm(2) by coupling with a solution-cast BiVO4 film in a heterojunction configuration. Our study unveils the great potential of nanostructured CuWO4 as the photoanode material for PEC water oxidation.

Alternating Voltage Introduced NiCo Double Hydroxide Layered Nanoflakes for an Asymmetric Supercapacitor

An electrochemical alternating voltage approach of producing NiCo double hydroxide (NiCoDH) layered ultrathin nanoflakes with large specific surface area (355.8 m(2) g(-1)), remarkable specific capacitance and rate capability is presented. The obtained NiCoDH as anode for asymmetric supercapacitors shows excellent energy density of 17.5 Wh kg(-1) at high power density of 10.5 kW kg(-1) and cycling stability (91.2% after 10,000 cycles).

Plasma-Induced Oxygen Vacancies in Ultrathin Hematite Nanoflakes Promoting Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation

The incorporation of oxygen vacancies in hematite has been investigated as a promising route to improve oxygen evolution reaction activity of hematite photoanodes used in photoelectrochemical water oxidation. However, introducing oxygen vacancies intentionally in α-Fe2O3 for active solar water splitting through facile and effective methods remains a challenge. Herein, air plasma treatment is shown to produce oxygen vacancies in α-Fe2O3, and ultrathin α-Fe2O3 nanoflakes are used to investigate the effect of oxygen vacancies on the performance of photoelectrochemical oxygen oxidation. Increasing the plasma treatment duration and power is found to increase the density of oxygen vacancies and leads to a significant enhancement of the photocurrent response. The nanoflake photoanode with the optimized plasma treatment yields an incident photo-to-current conversion efficiency of 35.4% at 350 nm under 1.6 V vs RHE without resorting to any other cocatalysts, an efficiency far exceeding that of the pristine α-Fe2O3 nanoflakes (∼2.2%). Evidence for the presence of high density of oxygen vacancies confined in nanoflakes is clarified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The increased number of oxygen vacancies after plasma treatment resulting in an increased carrier density is interpreted as the main cause for the enhanced oxygen evolution reaction activity.

Hierarchical Co3O4/Co(OH)2 Nanoflakes as a Supercapacitor Electrode: Experimental and Semi-Empirical Model

In this research, facile and low cost synthesis methods, electrodeposition at constant current density and anodization at various applied voltages, were used to produce hierarchical cobalt oxide/hydroxide nanoflakes on top of porous anodized cobalt layer. The maximum electrochemical capacitance of 601 mF cm(-2) at scan rate of 2 mV s(-1) was achieved for 30 V optimized anodization applied voltage with high stability. Morphology and surface chemical composition were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The size, thickness, and density of nanoflakes, as well as length of the porous anodized Co layer were measured about 460±45 nm, 52±5 nm, 22±3 μm(-2), and 3.4±0.3 μm for the optimized anodization voltage, respectively. Moreover, the effect of anodization voltage on the resulting supercapacitance was modeled by using the Butler-Volmer formalism. The behavior of the modeled capacitance in different anodization voltages was in good agreement with the measured experimental data, and it was found that the role and contribution of the porous morphology was more decisive than structure of nanoflakes in the supercapacitance application.

Plasmon-enhanced photoelectrochemical water splitting using au nanoparticles decorated on hematite nanoflake arrays

Hematite nanoflake arrays were decorated with Au nanoparticles through a simple solution chemistry approach. We show that the photoactivity of Au-decorated Fe2 O3 electrodes for photoelectrochemical water oxidation can be effectively enhanced in the UV/Visible region compared with the bare Fe2 O3 . Au-nanoparticle-decorated Fe2 O3 nanoflake electrodes exhibit a significant cathodic shift of the onset potential up to 0.6 V [vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)], and a two times increase in the water oxidation photocurrent is achieved at 1.23 VRHE . A maximum photocurrent of 2.0 mA cm(-2) at 1.6 VRHE is obtained in 1 M KOH under AM 1.5 (100 mW cm(-2) ) conditions. The enhancement in photocurrent can be attributed to the Au nanoparticles acting as plasmonic photosensitizers that increase the optical absorption.

High-performance lithium-ion battery and symmetric supercapacitors based on FeCo₂O₄ nanoflakes electrodes

A successive preparation of FeCo2O4 nanoflakes arrays on nickel foam substrates is achieved by a simple hydrothermal synthesis method. After 170 cycles, a high capacity of 905 mAh g(-1) at 200 mA g(-1) current density and very good rate capabilities are obtained for lithium-ion battery because of the 2D porous structures of the nanoflakes arrays. The distinctive structural features provide the battery with excellent electrochemical performance. The symmetric supercapacitor on nonaqueous electrolyte demonstrates high specific capacitance of 433 F g(-1) at 0.1 A g(-1) and 16.7 F g(-1) at high scan rate of 5 V s(-1) and excellent cyclic performance of 2500 cycles of charge-discharge cycling at 2 A g(-1) current density, revealing excellent long-term cyclability of the electrode even under rapid charge-discharge conditions.

Li4Ti5O12/TiO2 hollow spheres composed nanoflakes with preferentially exposed Li4Ti5O12 (011) facets for high-rate lithium ion batteries

Li4Ti5O12/TiO2 hollow spheres composed of nanoflakes with preferentially exposed Li4Ti5O12 (011) facets have been successfully fabricated via a facile hydrothermal processing route and following calcination. These hollow spheres show good electrochemical performance in terms of high capacity (266 mAh g(-1) at 0.1 A g(-1)), and excellent rate capability (110 mAh g(-1) at 4.0 A g(-1) up to 100 cycles), attributed to unique morphology, preferred facet orientation of the nanoflakes and microscopic structure of the hollow spheres. The preferentially exposed Li4Ti5O12 (011) facets leads to fast lithium insertion/deinsertion processes in materials because of shorten lithium ion diffusion length, proved to be highly effective in improving the electrochemical properties of the hollow spheres. The excellent electrochemical performance makes these hollow spheres promising anode material for lithium ion batteries with high power and energy densities.

WO₃ nanoflakes for enhanced photoelectrochemical conversion

We developed a postgrowth modification method of two-dimensional WO3 nanoflakes by a simultaneous solution etching and reducing process in a weakly acidic condition. The obtained dual etched and reduced WO3 nanoflakes have a much rougher surface, in which oxygen vacancies are created during the simultaneous etching/reducing process for optimized photoelectrochemical performance. The obtained photoanodes show an enhanced photocurrent density of ∼1.10 mA/cm(2) at 1.0 V vs Ag/AgCl (∼1.23 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode), compared to 0.62 mA/cm(2) of pristine WO3 nanoflakes. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurement and the density functional theory calculation demonstrate that this improved performance of dual etched and reduced WO3 nanoflakes is attributed to the increase of charge carrier density as a result of the synergetic effect of etching and reducing.

Optical Properties of Triangular Molybdenum Disulfide Nanoflakes

The results from calculations of optical and electronic properties of triangular MoS2 nanoflakes with edge lengths ranging from 1.6 to 10.4 nm are presented. The optical spectra were calculated using the time-dependent extension of the density-functional tight-binding method (TD-DFTB). The size effect in the optical absorption spectra is clearly visible. With decreasing length of the nanoflakes edges, the long-wavelength absorption in the range of visible light is shifted toward short-wavelength absorption, confirming a quantum-confinement-like behavior of these flakes. In contrast, the edges of the nanoflakes exhibit a distinct metallic-like behavior. The relation of the absorption properties to the observed photoluminescence of MoS2 nanoflakes is discussed in a qualitative manner.

Hexagonal transition-metal chalcogenide nanoflakes with pronounced lateral quantum confinement

Transition-metal chalcogenide (TMC) nanoflakes of composition MX2 (where M=Ti, Zr and Hf; X=S and Se) crystallize preferentially in equilateral hexagons and exhibit a pronounced lateral quantum confinement. The hexagonal shape of octahedral (1T) TMC nanoflakes is the result of charge localization at the edges/vertices and the resulting Coulomb repulsion. Independent of their size, all nanoflakes have the Mn X2n-2 stoichiometry and thus an unoxidized metal center which results in dopant states. These states become relevant for small nanoflakes and lead to metallic character, but for larger nanoflakes (>6 nm) the 2D monolayer properties dominate. Finally, coordination of Lewis bases at the nanoflake edges has no significant effect on the electronic structure of these species confirming the viability of colloidal synthetic approaches.

Hierarchical α-MnO2 nanowires@Ni1-x Mnx Oy nanoflakes core-shell nanostructures for supercapacitors

A facile two-step solution-phase method has been developed for the preparation of hierarchical α-MnO2 nanowires@Ni1-x Mnx Oy nanoflakes core-shell nanostructures. Ultralong α-MnO2 nanowires were synthesized by a hydrothermal method in the first step. Subsequently, Ni1-x Mnx Oy nanoflakes were grown on α-MnO2 nanowires to form core-shell nanostructures using chemical bath deposition followed by thermal annealing. Both solution-phase methods can be easily scaled up for mass production. We have evaluated their application in supercapacitors. The ultralong one-dimensional (1D) α-MnO2 nanowires in hierarchical core-shell nanostructures offer a stable and efficient backbone for charge transport; while the two-dimensional (2D) Ni1-x Mnx Oy nanoflakes on α-MnO2 nanowires provide high accessible surface to ions in the electrolyte. These beneficial features enable the electrode with high capacitance and reliable stability. The capacitance of the core-shell α-MnO2 @Ni1-x Mnx Oy nanostructures (x = 0.75) is as high as 657 F g(-1) at a current density of 250 mA g(-1) , and stable charging-discharging cycling over 1000 times at a current density of 2000 mA g(-1) has been realized.

Nanoflakes-assembled three-dimensional hollow-porous v2 o5 as lithium storage cathodes with high-rate capacity

Three-dimensional (3D) hollow-porous vanadium pentoxide (V2 O5 ) quasi-microspheres are synthesized by a facile solvothermal method followed by annealing at 450 °C in air. The interconnected hollow-porous networks facilitate the kinetics of lithium-ion diffusion and improve the performance of V2 O5 to achieve a high capacity and remarkable rate capability as a cathode material for lithium batteries.

Harnessing the influence of reactive edges and defects of graphene substrates for achieving complete cycle of room-temperature molecular sensing

Molecular doping and detection are at the forefront of graphene research, a topic of great interest in physical and materials science. Molecules adsorb strongly on graphene, leading to a change in electrical conductivity at room temperature. However, a common impediment for practical applications reported by all studies to date is the excessively slow rate of desorption of important reactive gases such as ammonia and nitrogen dioxide. Annealing at high temperatures, or exposure to strong ultraviolet light under vacuum, is employed to facilitate desorption of these gases. In this article, the molecules adsorbed on graphene nanoflakes and on chemically derived graphene-nanomesh flakes are displaced rapidly at room temperature in air by the use of gaseous polar molecules such as water and ethanol. The mechanism for desorption is proposed to arise from the electrostatic forces exerted by the polar molecules, which decouples the overlap between substrate defect states, molecule states, and graphene states near the Fermi level. Using chemiresistors prepared from water-based dispersions of single-layer graphene on mesoporous alumina membranes, the study further shows that the edges of the graphene flakes (showing p-type responses to NO₂ and NH₃) and the edges of graphene nanomesh structures (showing n-type responses to NO₂ and NH₃) have enhanced sensitivity. The measured responses towards gases are comparable to or better than those which have been obtained using devices that are more sophisticated. The higher sensitivity and rapid regeneration of the sensor at room temperature provides a clear advancement towards practical molecule detection using graphene-based materials.