Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Commons^™

Experimental Study For Improving Oil Recovery Using Organic Alkaline And Nano-Silica For An Egyptian Oil Field, Attia Attia, Mohamed Sadek Hamedi Al, Mayar Abdelrahman Hassan Eng.

Petroleum Engineering and Gas

The oil and gas industry continually seeks innovative methods to enhance hydrocarbon recovery due to the declining productivity of conventional techniques. Current recovery methods, such as water flooding and chemical flooding, often face limitations like high interfacial tension, unfavorable wettability, and reduced mobility of oil, especially under harsh reservoir conditions of high salinity. To address these challenges, this study explores the implementation of nanotechnology in enhanced oil recovery (EOR), focusing on the distinct and unique properties of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles, particularly SiO2, were chosen for their ability to significantly decrease interfacial tension, alter wettability, and improve oil mobility. SiO2 nanoparticles exhibit …

Metal Nitrides As Cathode Hosts For Lithium-Sulfur Batteries, Hai-Ji Xiong, Cheng-Wei Zhu, Ding-Rong Deng, Qi-Hui Wu

Journal of Electrochemistry

Lithium-sulfur batteries are considered as one of the potential solutions as integrating renewable energy systems for large-scale energy storage because of their high theoretical energy density (2600 Wh·kg^–1) and specific capacity (1675 mAh·g^–1). Currently, various strategies have been proposed to overcome the technical barriers, e.g., “shuttle effect”, capacity decay and volumetric change, which impede the successful commercialization of lithium-sulfur batteries. This paper reviews the applications of metal nitrides as the cathode hosts for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries, summarizes the design strategies of different host materials, and discusses the relationship between the properties of metal nitrides and their …

Enhancing Cycle Life Of Graphite ‖ Lifepo4 Batteries Via Copper Substituted Li2Ni1-XCuXO2 Cathode Prelithiation Additive, Jian-Ming Zheng, Jing-Wen Zhang, Tian-Peng Jiao

Journal of Electrochemistry

Lithium nickel oxide (Li₂NiO₂), as a sacrificial cathode prelithiation additive, has been used to compensate for the lithium loss for improving the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, high-cost Li₂NiO₂ suffers from inferior delithiation kinetics during the first cycle. Herein, we investigate the effects of the cost-effective Cu substitution of Li₂Ni_1-xCu_xO₂ (x = 0, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7) synthesized by high-temperature solid-phase method on the structure, morphology, electrochemical performance of graphite‖LiFePO₄ battery. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) refinement result demonstrates that Cu substitution strategy is favorable …

Sno2 Particles Embedded Into Carbon Coated Mesoporous SioX Rod As High Volumetric Capacity Anode For Lithium-Ion Batteries, Jia-Lin Guo, Ni-Ni Li, Peng Zheng

Journal of Electrochemistry

Due to the high capacity and moderate volume expansion of silicon protoxide SiO_x (160%) compared with that of Si (300%), reducing silicon dioxide SiO₂ into SiO_x while maintaining its special nano-morphology makes it attractive as an anode of Li-ion batteries. Herein, through a one-pot facile high-temperature annealing route, using SBA15 as the silicon source, and embedding tin dioxide SnO₂ particles into carbon coated SiO_x, the mesoporous SiO_x-SnO₂@C rod composite was prepared and tested as the anode material. The results revealed that the SnO₂ particles were distributed uniformly in the …

A Comparative Study On Natural Vs. Synthesized Polymers Combined With Silica Nanoparticles To Maximize Secondary Oil Recovery, Attia Attia, Mohamed Sadek Hamedi Al, Waleed Abd-Alsabour Ali Eng., Zeyad Tamer Elshony Eng.

Petroleum Engineering and Gas

Polymer flooding is a well-established technique for enhancing oil recovery from reservoirs. In this study, we investigate the performance of two different polymers, Xanthan Gum, and HPAM for secondary oil recovery in the sand pack. The effects of polymer concentration and high salinity on oil recovery are studied. The polymers are characterized using various measurements and tests, including viscosity, shear rate, and interfacial tension. The sand pack flooding experiments are conducted under various conditions, including varying polymer slugs, and nanosilica (silicon dioxide SiO2) concentration. The results are analyzed to determine the optimal conditions for polymer flooding for enhanced oil recovery. …

New Insights Into Controlling The Functional Properties Of Tin Oxide-Based Materials, Alexandra Kuriganova, Nina Smirnova

Journal of Electrochemistry

Development of methodologies for fabrications of nanostructured materials that provide control over their microstructural features and compositions represents a fundamental step in the advancement of technologies for productions of materials with well-defined functional properties. Pulse electrolysis, a top-down electrochemical approach, has been demonstrated to be a viable method for producing nanostructured materials with a particular efficacy in the synthesis of tin oxides. This method allows for significant control over the composition and shape of the resulting tin oxides particles by modifying the anionic composition of the aqueous electrolyte, obviating the need for additional capping agents in the synthesis process and …

A Cnt Intercalated Co Porphyrin-Based Metal Organic Framework Catalyst For Oxygen Reduction Reaction, Pei-Pei He, Jin-Hua Shi, Xiao-Yu Li, Ming-Jie Liu, Zhou Fang, Jing He, Zhong-Jian Li, Xin-Sheng Peng, Qing-Gang He

Journal of Electrochemistry

The poor electronic conductivity of metal-organic framework (MOF) materials hinders their direct application in the field of electrocatalysis in fuel cells. Herein, we proposed a strategy of embedding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) during the growth process of MOF crystals, synthesizing a metalloporphyrin-based MOF catalyst TCPPCo-MOF-CNT with a unique CNT-intercalated MOF structure. Physical characterization revealed that the CNTs enhance the overall conductivity while retaining the original characteristics of the MOF and metalloporphyrin. Simultaneously, the insertion of CNTs generated adequate mesopores and created a hierarchical porous structure that enhances mass transfer efficiency. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis confirmed that the C atom in CNT …

Nanostructured Graphitic Carbon Nitride For Photocatalytic And Electrochemical Applications, Muhammad Abdul Qadeer, Iqra Fareed, Asif Hussaine, Muhammad Asim Farid, Sadia Nazir, Faheem K. Butt, Ji-Jun Zou, Muhammad Tahir, Shang-Feng Du

Journal of Electrochemistry

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) exhibits great mechanical as well as thermal characteristics, making it a valuable material for use in photoelectric conversion devices, an accelerator for synthesis of organic compounds, an electrolyte for fuel cell applications or power sources, and a hydrogen storage substance and a fluorescence detector. It is fabricated using different methods, and there is a variety of morphologies and nanostructures such as zero to three dimensions that have been designed for different purposes. There are many reports about g-C₃N₄ in recent years, but a comprehensive review which covers nanostructure dimensions …

Metallic Nanoparticles And Cosmetics: The Role Of Mitochondria And Premature Aging, Veronica Montesinos-Cruz, Justin Olmanson

Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education: Faculty Publications

The cosmetic industry has developed and commercialized numerous products using new technologies, making them increasingly appealing to the public. The use of metallic nanoparticles (MtNPs) as key ingredients in cosmetics has become more widespread due to their demonstrated benefits. However, the use of these products remains controversial, as some studies have shown that MtNPs can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and disrupt homeostatic balance. It has also been demonstrated that the interaction between MtNPs and keratinocytes increases the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to oxidative stress, a condition associated with premature aging. Mitochondria, as …

Nanomaterial-Enabled Enhancements In Thylakoid-Based Biofuel Cells, Amit Sarode, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

Thylakoid-based photosynthetic biofuel cells (TBFCs) harness the inherent light-driven electron transfer pathways of photosynthesis to enable sustainable solar-to-electrical energy conversion. While TBFCs offer a unique route toward biohybrid energy systems, their practical deployment is hindered by sluggish electron transfer kinetics, unstable redox mediators, and inefficient interfacing between biological and electrode components. This review critically examines recent advances in TBFCs, with a focus on three key surface engineering strategies: (i) incorporation of nanostructured materials to enhance electrode conductivity and surface area; (ii) application of redox mediators to facilitate charge transfer between photosynthetic proteins and electrodes; and (iii) functional exploitation of individual …

Investigation On The Tribological Properties Of Al2o3-Tic Substrates In Fixed Abrasive Lapping For Data Storage Application, Benjie Fernandez

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

Alumina titanium-carbide (Al2O3-TiC) or simply AlTiC substrates were widely used in the magnetic recording industry for their superior mechanical and tribological properties. This study investigated the effect of AlTiC substrate properties in slider lapping tribology. Two types of AlTiC substrates, Type-A AlTiC and Type-B AlTiC equipped with an electro lapping guide (ELG), fully functional reader and writer devices were used in the study. Type-A AlTiC was found to have higher hardness and lower coefficient of friction resulting to lower lapping material removal rate and smoother surface finish. The difference in mechanical properties were attributed to the crystal structure and chemical …

Synthesis Of Fes2 And Fes2-Mns2 Composite Nanostructured Photocatalysts For Dye Degradation, Septian Budiman

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

This research addresses the environmental challenge of synthetic dye pollution by developing and evaluating novel photocatalysts. Iron pyrite (FeS2), an abundant and low-cost semiconductor, is a promising candidate for photocatalysis, but its practical application is severely limited by its high instability and susceptibility to photocorrosion under light irradiation. To overcome this limitation, this study investigates the synthesis of bare FeS2 nanoparticles and their modification with MnS2. FeS2 nanoparticles were first synthesized via a hydrothermal method at 180°C, using FeSO4·7H2O and Na2S2O3·5H2O precursors. Subsequently, a FeS2-MnS2 material was synthesized using a facile reflux method, with optimal conditions identified as 3 hours …

A Comparison Of Microcrystal Electron Diffraction And X-Ray Powder Diffraction For The Structural Analysis Of Metal-Organic Frameworks, Erik Biehler, Silvana Pagola, Daniel Stam, Johannes Merkelbach, Christian Jandl, Tarek M. Abdel-Fattah

Chemistry & Biochemistry Faculty Publications

This study successfully implemented microcrystal electron diffraction (microED) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) for the crystal structure determination of a new phase, TAF-CNU-1, Ni(C₈H₄O₄)·3H₂O, solved by microED from single microcrystals in the powder and refined at the kinematic and dynamic electron diffraction theory levels. This nickel metal–organic framework (MOF), together with its cobalt and manganese analogues with formula M (C₈H₄O₄)·2H₂O with M = Mn ^II or Co^II, were synthesized in aqueous media as one-pot preparations from the corresponding hydrated metal chlorides and sodium terephthalate, as a promising `green' synthetic route to moisture-stable MOFs. The crystal structures of the …

Fabricating Silver-Ceria Polymer Nanocomposite Scaffolds For Biomedical Therapeutic Applications, Shreya S. Pawar

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Improper healing of bone fractures and limited regeneration of bone following bone tumor resection remain a prevalent complication worldwide. Long-term effects of this include joint instability, limited movement, and arthritis. Bone infections (osteomyelitis), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation via excessive inflammation, and underlying conditions such as osteoporosis can contribute to suboptimal bone tissue regeneration. ROS accumulation stimulates osteoblast apoptosis, while promoting osteoclast differentiation. These processes inhibit mineralization and osteogenesis. Conventional therapeutics involve the utilization of drugs and bone grafts. However, these approaches pose limitations and can result in subsequent complications. Microbial infections, ROS accumulation, and excessive inflammations are factors that …

Enhancing Energy Efficiency In Solar Thermal Systems: The Role Of Hybrid Nanofluids In Sustainable Energy Harvesting And Storage, Seyedehzahra Haeri

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Global energy demand continues to grow, making the reliance on fossil fuels increasingly unsustainable due to dwindling reserves and environmental impacts. Among these, solar thermal systems have emerged as a practical and environmentally friendly solution, with applications ranging from industrial heating and solar water heating to concentrated solar power (CSP) plants and solar desalination units. Solar-based thermal systems offer a promising alternative, with nanofluids (NFs) emerging as a transformative solution. Engineered by dispersing nanoparticles into base fluids, NFs enhance thermal conductivity, heat absorption, and efficiency. Notably, nanoparticles such as titanium nitride also act as nano-catalysts, improving chemical reactions and reducing …

Multimodal Imaging Of Protein-Based Biomaterials For Delivering Chemo-Agent Cargo For Glioblastoma Treatment In A Murine Model, Orin Mishkit

Dissertations and Theses

Protein-based self-assembling biomaterials, known as Thermo-Responsive Assembled Proteins (TRAP), present meaningful potential as drug delivery carriers. These materials enable the controlled, slow release of poorly soluble chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin (Dox), while potentially reducing systemic off-target effects. In collaboration with multiple NYU labs, this study evaluated the efficacy of two TRAP variants—TRAP and F-TRAP—as drug delivery carriers in a xenograft mouse model of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

The primary objective was to compare the effectiveness of TRAP-loaded Dox (TRAP-DOX) to free Dox in achieving tumor extravasation and accumulation, facilitating sustained drug release. We hypothesized that the leaky vasculature of GBM …

Combinatorial Thin Film Approach To Accelerate Materials Discovery: Development Of Nanoporous And Bulk Multi-Principal Element Alloys, Tibra Das Gupta

Theses and Dissertations--Chemical and Materials Engineering

Multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs) have garnered significant attention in materials science due to their potential for exhibiting a combination of desirable properties stemming from their unique configurational entropy. While early research focused on equiatomic compositions, recent studies have indicated that non-equiatomic MPEAs may offer superior mechanical performance. However, the identification of optimal non-equiatomic compositions remains challenging due to the vast compositional space and the reliance on time-consuming and computationally expensive methods. This dissertation presents a combinatorial thin film approach as a rapid and efficient strategy for discovering two types of materials: nanoporous and bulk MPEAs.

The first study explores the …

Hafnium Oxide-Based Nanoheterostructures For Catalytic Radiosensitization And Enhanced X-Ray Radiotherapy, Marlen Dariela Calix Quezada

Theses and Dissertations

Orthovoltage X-ray beams are attractive for surface and intra-operative radiotherapy. Yet, their clinical utility is constrained by rapid attenuation and the limited dose that can be delivered without harming healthy tissue. High-Z hafnium oxide (HfO₂) nanoparticles can boost local energy deposition through the photoelectric effect, while catalytic surface defects accelerate water radiolysis. Harnessing both mechanisms in a single nano-heterostructure could enable potent radiosensitization at diagnostic-range energies.

This thesis develops and evaluates HfO₂-based nanoheterostructures, both bare and Au-decorated, as catalytic radiosensitizers.

Two types of HfO₂ were evaluated, one was synthesized following a specific route and the …

Material And Mechanical Characterization Of Sla 3d Printed Graphene Nanoplatelet-Based Nanocomposites Fabricated Within A Magnetic Field, Soka Suliman

Graduate Research Theses & Dissertations

The process of utilizing a static magnetic field to fabricate a nanomaterial-based composite via a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing process is still a relatively new approach within the field of additive manufacturing. By using this magnetic field during the 3D printing process, both material and mechanical properties can be oriented and axially varied for enhanced characteristics. In this investigation, between 0% to 2% volume fractions of high aspect ratio, graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) are suspended within UV-curable resin during a SLA 3D printing process with a static magnetic field applied. The objective of this investigation is to determine the effect of …

Epitaxial Quantum Dot Scintillators With Monolithic Photodetector Integration: Physics, Fabrication And Characterization Of Materials And Devices, Allan Oreave Minns

Electronic Theses & Dissertations (2024 - present)

This dissertation discloses the physics, fabrication, and characterization of high-performance scintillator detectors based on epitaxial InAs quantum dots (QDs) in GaAs. The detector crystals grown include monolithically integrated In_0.35GaAs photodetectors with Al_0.92-0.6In_0.03-0.35Ga_0.05As metamorphic buffer layers (MBL). A device fabrication process was developed for the lithographic patterning, chemical etching, contact metallization and readout integration of materials grown by means of molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on 3-inch GaAs (001) wafers. Low capacitance integration with readout electronics was achieved through wire bonds to custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) with commercial components.

The relationship between device …