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Sample records for anlagenbau ag o-1140

  1. Glass formation in AgI:Ag2O:V2O5 and AgI:Ag2O:(V2O5+B2O3) systems

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kaushik, R.; Hariharan, K.

    1988-01-01

    Transport properties of glasses in the system AgI:Ag 2 O: V 2 O 5 and AgI:Ag 2 O: (V 2 O 5 +B 2 O 3 ) have ben investigated. It was found that, at high AgI concentrations, the addition of another glass former (B 2 O 3 ) did not improve the conduction characteristics of the pure vanadate glasses, the best conducting composition of which had ambient temperature, ionic conductivity comparable to that of conventional liquid electrolytes. The highest conducting composition was used as an electrolyte in the study of silver solid state cells. The discharge characteristics of different cells fabricated with the glassy electrolyte, have been compared with those having the best conducting polycrystalline ompositions as electrolytes. 11 refs.; 4 figs.; 1 table

  2. Subsolidus phase relations of the SrO–SbOx–CuO system at 1140K in air

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Grivel, J.-C.; Norby, Poul; Andersen, Niels Hessel

    2014-01-01

    The subsolidus phase relations of the SrO–SbOx–CuO system were investigated in air. The samples were equilibrated at 1140K. Under these conditions, 7 binary oxide phases are stable: Sr2CuO3, SrCuO2, Sr14Cu24O41−δ, CuSb2O6, SrSb2O6, Sr2Sb2O7 and Sr7Sb2O12. The ternary section contains 10 three...

  3. BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) models in plant construction; BOT-Modelle im Anlagenbau. Ein neues strategisches Instrument oder nur Akquisitionsunterstuetzung?

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bohlmann, B. [Kienbaum Management Consultants GmbH, Duesseldorf (Germany). Bereich Stahl und Anlagenbau; Roeben, K.W. [Fachhochschule Hamburg (Germany). Fachgebiet Thermodynamik und Verfahrenstechnik

    1998-05-01

    So as to survive in the tight situation on the world market for plant construction, new concepts are required. In addition to technical innovation, there are an increasing number of additional services that occupy the midpoint of plant business. The article discusses the prospects and risks, which arise from the involvement of the plant designer in a BOT project. (orig.) [Deutsch] Um sich in der angespannten Situation am Weltmarkt des Anlagenbaus behaupten zu koennen, bedarf es neuer Konzepte. Neben der technischen Innovation stehen immer mehr flankierende Dienstleistungen im Mittelpunkt des Anlagengeschaeftes. Der Beitrag eroertert die Chancen und Risiken, die sich aus einem Engagement des Anlagenbauers in einem BOT-Projekt ergeben. (orig.)

  4. Room temperature synthesis and photocatalytic property of AgO/Ag2Mo2O7 heterojunction nanowires

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hashim, Muhammad; Hu, Chenguo; Wang, Xue; Wan, Buyong; Xu, Jing

    2012-01-01

    Graphical abstract: The AgO nanoparticles are attached on the surface of the Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 nanowires to form a heterojunction structure. The AgO nanoparticles start embedding into the nanowires with increasing reaction temperature or time. Highlights: ► AgO/Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 heterojunction NWs were synthesized at room temperature for the first time. ► AgO particles embed into the Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 NWs with increase in reaction time and temperature. ► The heterojunction NWs display much better photocatalytic activity than the none-heterojunction NWs. ► The catalytic mechanism was proposed. -- Abstract: AgO/Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 heterojunction nanowires were synthesized at temperatures of 25 °C, 50 °C, 80 °C, and 110 °C, under magnetic stirring in solution reaction. The catalytic activity of AgO/Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 nanowires was evaluated by the degradation of Rhodmine B dye under the irradiation of the simulated sunlight. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffractometer, energy dispersive spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that the AgO nanoparticles are attached on the surface of the Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 nanowires to form a heterojunction structure. The length of the nanowires is up to 10 μm and the size of the AgO nanoparticles is 10–20 nm. The length of nanowires increases with increasing reaction time and temperature while the AgO particles are gradually embedded into the nanowires. The photocatalytic activity is greatly improved for the AgO/Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 heterojunction nanowires compared with that of the pure Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 nanowires, indicating a remarkable role of AgO particles on the Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 nanowires in the photodegradation.

  5. One-pot synthesis of Ag-SiO2-Ag sandwich nanostructures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li Chaorong; Mei Jie; Li Shuwen; Lu Nianpeng; Wang Lina; Chen Benyong; Dong Wenjun

    2010-01-01

    Ag-SiO 2 -Ag sandwich nanostructures were prepared by a facile one-pot synthesis method. The Ag core, SiO 2 shell and Ag nanoparticle shell were all synthesized with polyvinylpyrrolidone, catalysed by ammonia, in the one-pot reaction. The polyvinylpyrrolidone, acting as a smart reducing agent, reduced the Ag + to Ag cores and Ag shells separately. Furthermore, the polyvinylpyrrolidone served as a protective agent to prevent the silver cores from aggregating. The SiO 2 shell and outer layer Ag nanoparticles were obtained when tetraethyl orthosilicate and ammonia were added to the silver core solution. Ammonia, acting as the catalyst, accelerated the hydrolysis of the tetraethyl orthosilicate to SiO 2 , which coated the silver cores. Furthermore, Ag(NH 3 ) 2 + ions were formed when aqueous ammonia was added to the solution, which increased the reduction capability. Then the polyvinylpyrrolidone reduced the Ag(NH 3 ) 2 + ions to small Ag nanoparticles on the surface of the Ag-SiO 2 and formed Ag-SiO 2 -Ag sandwich structures with a standard deviation of less than 4%. This structure effectively prevented the Ag nanoparticles on the silica surface from aggregating. Furthermore, the Ag-SiO 2 -Ag sandwich structures showed good catalysis properties due to the large surface area/volume value and activity of surface atoms of Ag particles.

  6. 7 CFR 51.1140 - General.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    .... paradisi and C. grandis). Separate U.S. standards apply to tangerines. The standards for internal quality... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false General. 51.1140 Section 51.1140 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing...

  7. Using Ag/Ag2O/SnO2 Nanocomposites to Remove Malachite Green by a Photocatalytic Process

    Science.gov (United States)

    Taufik, A.; Paramarta, V.; Prakoso, S. P.; Saleh, R.

    2017-03-01

    Silver/silver oxide/tin oxide nanocomposites of various weight ratios were synthesized using a microwave-assisted method. The Ag/Ag2O:SnO2 nanoparticle weight ratios used were 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25. All samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis spectroscopy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The Ag/Ag2O/SnO2 nanocomposites contained cubic structures provided by the Ag and Ag2O and tetragonal structures provided by the SnO2. The silver resulted in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at a wavelength of about 435 nm. The silver oxide material was transformed into pure Ag at a temperature of about 370 °C The photocatalytic activity was tested on the degradation of malachite green (MG) from an aqueous solution. The results showed that Ag/Ag2O/SnO2 at a ratio of 50:50 exhibited the best photocatalytic performance for degrading MG under visible-light irradiation. The degradation of MG using Ag/Ag2O/SnO2 nanocomposites followed pseudo first-order kinetic reactions, and electron holes were found to be the main species acting on the degradation process.

  8. Plasmonic Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag composite: Excellent photocatalytic performance and possible photocatalytic mechanism

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Zhongliao [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Anhui Key Laboratory of Energetic Materials, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, 235000 (China); Zhang, Jinfeng, E-mail: zjf_y2004@126.com [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Anhui Key Laboratory of Energetic Materials, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, 235000 (China); Lv, Jiali [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Anhui Key Laboratory of Energetic Materials, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, 235000 (China); Dai, Kai, E-mail: daikai940@chnu.edu.cn [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Anhui Key Laboratory of Energetic Materials, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, 235000 (China); Liang, Changhao [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Anhui Key Laboratory of Energetic Materials, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei, 235000 (China); Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031 (China)

    2017-02-28

    Highlights: • Novel Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag photocatalyst was prepared. • Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag showed high photocatalytic activity. • Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag showed long reusable life. - Abstract: Plasmonic Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag composite is fabricated by in-situ ion exchange and reduction methods at room temperature. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis diffuse reflectance (DRS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. The results show that butterfly-like Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4} nanosheets served as the precursor, and Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag is formed in phase transformation with MoO{sub 4}{sup 2−} displaced by Br{sup −}. The ternary Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag composite photocatalysts show greatly enhanced photocatalytic activity in photodegrading methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation compared with AgBr and Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}. The pseudo-first-order rate constant k{sub app} of Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}/AgBr/Ag is 0.602 min{sup −1}, which is 11.6 and 18.3 times as high as that of AgBr and Ag{sub 2}MoO{sub 4}, respectively. Meanwhile, the efficiency of degradation still kept 90% after ten times cyclic experiments. Eventually, possible photocatalytic mechanism was proposed.

  9. Ag K- and L3-edge XAFS study on Ag species in Ag/Ga2O3 photocatalysts

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yamamoto, M; Yamamoto, N; Yoshida, T; Nomoto, T; Yamamoto, A; Yoshida, H; Yagi, S

    2016-01-01

    Ag loaded Ga 2 O 3 (Ag/Ga 2 O 3 ) shows photocatalytic activity for reduction of CO 2 with water. Ag L 3 -edge XANES and K-edge EXAFS spectra were measured for various Ag/Ga 2 O 3 samples, which suggested that structural and chemical states of Ag species varied with the loading amount of Ag and the preparation method. The Ag species were metallic Ag particles with an AgGaO 2 -like interface structure in the sample with high loading amount of Ag while predominantly Ag metal clusters in the sample with low loading amount of Ag. The XANES feature just above the edge represented the interaction between the Ag species and the Ga 2 O 3 surface, showing that the Ag metal clusters had more electrons in the d -orbitals by interacting with the Ga 2 O 3 surface, which would contribute the high photocatalytic activity. (paper)

  10. Synthesis and Characterization of Ag-Ag2O/TiO2@polypyrrole Heterojunction for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rajeev Kumar

    2016-05-01

    Full Text Available Hybrid multi-functional nanomaterials comprising two or more disparate materials have become a powerful approach to obtain advanced materials for environmental remediation applications. In this work, an Ag-Ag2O/TiO2@polypyrrole (Ag/TiO2@PPy heterojunction has been synthesized by assembling a self-stabilized Ag-Ag2O (p type semiconductor (denoted as Ag and polypyrrole (π-conjugated polymer on the surface of rutile TiO2 (n type. Ag/TiO2@PPy was synthesized through simultaneous oxidation of pyrrole monomers and reduction of AgNO3 in an aqueous solution containing well-dispersed TiO2 particles. Thus synthesized Ag/TiO2@PPy was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, transmission electron microscopy (TEM, and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DSR. The photocatalytic activity of synthesized heterojunction was investigated for the decomposition of methylene blue (MB dye under UV and visible light irradiation. The results revealed that π-conjugated p-n heterojunction formed in the case of Ag/TiO2@PPy significantly enhanced the photodecomposition of MB compared to the p-n type Ag/TiO2 and TiO2@PPy (n-π heterojunctions. A synergistic effect between Ag-Ag2O and PPy leads to higher photostability and a better electron/hole separation leads to an enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag/TiO2@PPy under both UV and visible light irradiations.

  11. 7 CFR 1.140 - Conferences and procedure.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Conferences and procedure. 1.140 Section 1.140 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS Rules of Practice Governing...) An outline of the case or defense; (ii) The legal theories upon which the party will rely; (iii...

  12. Synthesis and characterization of Ag/AgBrO{sub 3} photocatalyst with high photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Song, Limin, E-mail: songlmnk@sohu.com [College of Environment and Chemical Engineering & State Key Laboratory of Hollow-Fiber Membrane Materials and Membrane Processes, Tianjin Polytechnic University, Tianjin, 300387 (China); Li, Tongtong [College of Environment and Chemical Engineering & State Key Laboratory of Hollow-Fiber Membrane Materials and Membrane Processes, Tianjin Polytechnic University, Tianjin, 300387 (China); Zhang, Shujuan [College of Science, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457 (China)

    2016-10-01

    A new Ag/AgBrO{sub 3} photocatalyst was prepared by mixing aqueous solutions of AgNO{sub 3} and NaBrO{sub 3}. The catalyst’s structure and performance were investigated with X-ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The UV–vis absorption spectrum of Ag/AgBrO{sub 3} exhibits a band gap of 3.97 eV. The results show that the Ag/AgBrO{sub 3} semiconductor can be excited by ultraviolet–visible light. The photodegradation of Rhodamine B displayed much higher photocatalytic activity than that of N-doped TiO{sub 2} under the same experimental conditions. Moreover, ·OH and ·O{sub 2}{sup −} generated in the photocatalysis played a key role of the photodegradation of Rhodamine B. - Highlights: • Ag/AgBrO{sub 3} with higher photodegradation ability was synthesized. • ·OH and ·O{sub 2}{sup −} radicals were the main active species in the oxidation of RhB. • The possible reaction mechanism was discussed in details.

  13. Enhanced photocatalysts based on Ag-TiO2 and Ag-N-TiO2 nanoparticles for multifunctional leather surface coating

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gaidau Carmen

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The Ag deposition on TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-TiO2 NPs and N-TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-N-TiO2 NPs has been made by electrochemical methodology in view of improved antibacterial properties and enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The particle size in powder and in dispersion showed similar values and good stability in aqueous medium which made them suitable for use in leather surface covering for new multifunctional properties development. The diffuse reflectance spectra of Ag-TiO2 NPs, Ag-N-TiO2 NPs and TiO2 NPs have been investigated and correlated with their photocatalytic performances under UV and visible light against different silver concentrations. The leather surfaces treated with Ag-N-TiO2 NPs showed advanced self-cleaning properties under visible light exposure through the hydrophilic mechanism of organic soil decomposition. Moreover the bacterial sensitivity and proven fungitoxic properties of Ag-N-TiO2 NPs leads to the possibility of designing new multifunctional additives to extend the advanced applications for more durable and useable materials.

  14. Preparation and Use of Photocatalytically Active Segmented Ag|ZnO and Coaxial TiO2-Ag Nanowires Made by Templated Electrodeposition

    Science.gov (United States)

    Maijenburg, A. Wouter; Rodijk, Eddy J.B.; Maas, Michiel G.; ten Elshof, Johan E.

    2014-01-01

    Photocatalytically active nanostructures require a large specific surface area with the presence of many catalytically active sites for the oxidation and reduction half reactions, and fast electron (hole) diffusion and charge separation. Nanowires present suitable architectures to meet these requirements. Axially segmented Ag|ZnO and radially segmented (coaxial) TiO2-Ag nanowires with a diameter of 200 nm and a length of 6-20 µm were made by templated electrodeposition within the pores of polycarbonate track-etched (PCTE) or anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes, respectively. In the photocatalytic experiments, the ZnO and TiO2 phases acted as photoanodes, and Ag as cathode. No external circuit is needed to connect both electrodes, which is a key advantage over conventional photo-electrochemical cells. For making segmented Ag|ZnO nanowires, the Ag salt electrolyte was replaced after formation of the Ag segment to form a ZnO segment attached to the Ag segment. For making coaxial TiO2-Ag nanowires, a TiO2 gel was first formed by the electrochemically induced sol-gel method. Drying and thermal annealing of the as-formed TiO2 gel resulted in the formation of crystalline TiO2 nanotubes. A subsequent Ag electrodeposition step inside the TiO2 nanotubes resulted in formation of coaxial TiO2-Ag nanowires. Due to the combination of an n-type semiconductor (ZnO or TiO2) and a metal (Ag) within the same nanowire, a Schottky barrier was created at the interface between the phases. To demonstrate the photocatalytic activity of these nanowires, the Ag|ZnO nanowires were used in a photocatalytic experiment in which H2 gas was detected upon UV illumination of the nanowires dispersed in a methanol/water mixture. After 17 min of illumination, approximately 0.2 vol% H2 gas was detected from a suspension of ~0.1 g of Ag|ZnO nanowires in a 50 ml 80 vol% aqueous methanol solution. PMID:24837535

  15. Influence of Ag thickness of aluminum-doped ZnO/Ag/aluminum-doped ZnO thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wu, Hung-Wei, E-mail: hwwu@mail.ksu.edu.tw [Department of Computer and Communication, Kun Shan University, No. 949, Dawan Rd., Yongkang Dist., Tainan City 710, Taiwan (China); Yang, Ru-Yuan [Graduate Institute of Materials Engineering, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1, Shuefu Rd., Neipu, Pingtung City 912, Taiwan (China); Hsiung, Chin-Min; Chu, Chien-Hsun [Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1, Shuefu Rd., Neipu, Pingtung City 912, Taiwan (China)

    2012-10-01

    Highly conducting aluminum-doped ZnO (30 nm)/Ag (5-15 nm)/aluminum-doped ZnO (30 nm) multilayer thin films were deposited on glass substrate by rf magnetron sputtering (for top/bottom aluminum-doped ZnO films) and e-beam evaporation (for Ag film). The transmittance is more than 70% for wavelengths above 400 nm with the Ag layer thickness of 10 nm. The resistivity is 3.71 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -4} {Omega}-cm, which can be decreased to 3.8 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -5} {Omega}-cm with the increase of the Ag layer thickness to 15 nm. The Haacke figure of merit has been calculated for the films with the best value being 8 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -3} {Omega}{sup -1}. It was shown that the multilayer thin films have potential for applications in optoelectronics. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High-quality Al-doped ZnO (AZO)/Ag/AZO Transparent Conducting Oxide films. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer AZO films (30 nm) made by RF sputtering; E-beam evaporation for Ag film (5-15 nm). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Influence of Ag thickness on optical and electrical properties were analyzed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High quality multilayer film with optimal intermediate Ag layer thickness of 10 nm. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer 3.71 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -4} {Omega}-cm resistivity, 91.89% transmittance at 470 nm obtained and reproducible.

  16. Syntheses, structures, and properties of Ag4(Mo2O5)(SeO4)2(SeO3) and Ag2(MoO3)3SeO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ling Jie; Albrecht-Schmitt, Thomas E.

    2007-01-01

    Ag 4 (Mo 2 O 5 )(SeO 4 ) 2 (SeO 3 ) has been synthesized by reacting AgNO 3 , MoO 3 , and selenic acid under mild hydrothermal conditions. The structure of this compound consists of cis-MoO 2 2+ molybdenyl units that are bridged to neighboring molybdenyl moieties by selenate anions and by a bridging oxo anion. These dimeric units are joined by selenite anions to yield zigzag one-dimensional chains that extended down the c-axis. Individual chains are polar with the C 2 distortion of the Mo(VI) octahedra aligning on one side of each chain. However, the overall structure is centrosymmetric because neighboring chains have opposite alignment of the C 2 distortion. Upon heating Ag 4 (Mo 2 O 5 )(SeO 4 ) 2 (SeO 3 ) looses SeO 2 in two distinct steps to yield Ag 2 MoO 4 . Crystallographic data: (193 K; MoKα, λ=0.71073 A): orthorhombic, space group Pbcm, a=5.6557(3), b=15.8904(7), c=15.7938(7) A, V=1419.41(12), Z=4, R(F)=2.72% for 121 parameters with 1829 reflections with I>2σ(I). Ag 2 (MoO 3 ) 3 SeO 3 was synthesized by reacting AgNO 3 with MoO 3 , SeO 2 , and HF under hydrothermal conditions. The structure of Ag 2 (MoO 3 ) 3 SeO 3 consists of three crystallographically unique Mo(VI) centers that are in 2+2+2 coordination environments with two long, two intermediate, and two short bonds. These MoO 6 units are connected to form a molybdenyl ribbon that extends along the c-axis. These ribbons are further connected together through tridentate selenite anions to form two-dimensional layers in the [bc] plane. Crystallographic data: (193 K; MoKα, λ=0.71073 A): monoclinic, space group P2 1 /n, a=7.7034(5), b=11.1485(8), c=12.7500(9) A, β=105.018(1) V=1002.7(2), Z=4, R(F)=3.45% for 164 parameters with 2454 reflections with I>2σ(I). Ag 2 (MoO 3 ) 3 SeO 3 decomposes to Ag 2 Mo 3 O 10 on heating above 550 deg. C. - Graphical abstract: A view of the one-dimensional [(Mo 2 O 5 )(SeO 4 ) 2 (SeO 3 )] 4- chains that extend down the c-axis in the structure of Ag 4 (Mo 2 O 5 )(SeO 4

  17. Cytotoxicity of serum protein-adsorbed visible-light photocatalytic Ag/AgBr/TiO2 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Seo, Ji Hye; Jeon, Won Il; Dembereldorj, Uuriintuya; Lee, So Yeong; Joo, Sang-Woo

    2011-01-01

    Highlights: ► Photocytotoxicity of visible-light catalytic NPs was examined in vitro. ► Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs were well internalized in cells after adsorption of serum proteins. ► Cell viability was decreased by 40–60% using ∼8 ppm NPs and 60 W/cm 2 visible light within 5 h. ► Mitochondria activity test indicated the reactive oxygen species for photo-destruction of cells. ► Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs were found to eliminate xenograft tumors significantly in vivo. - Abstract: Photocytotoxicity of visible-light catalytic Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) was examined both in vitro and in vivo. The Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs were prepared by the deposition–precipitation method. Their crystalline structures, atomic compositions, and light absorption property were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, X-ray photoelectron (XPS) intensities, and ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) diffuse reflectance spectroscopic tools. The Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs appeared to be well internalized in human carcinoma cells as evidenced by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The cytotoxicity of cetylmethylammonium bromide (CTAB) appeared to be significantly reduced by adsorption of serum proteins in the cellular medium on the NP surfaces. Two types of human cervical HeLa and skin A431 cancer cells were tested to check their viability after the cellular uptake of the Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs and subsequent exposure to an illumination of visible light from a 60 W/cm 2 halogen lamp. Fluorescence images taken to label mitochondria activity suggest that the reactive oxygen species should trigger the photo-destruction of cancer cells. After applying the halogen light illumination for 50–250 min and ∼8 ppm (μg/mL) of photocatalytic Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs, we observed a 40–60% selective decrease of cell viability. Ag/AgBr/TiO 2 NPs were found to eliminate xenograft tumors significantly by irradiating visible light in vivo for 10 min.

  18. Preparation of Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites and investigation on visible-light photocatalytic degradation activity in magnetic field

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, L.; Ma, C. H.; Wang, J.; Li, S. G.; Li, Y.

    2014-12-01

    In this study, Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites were prepared by three different methods (Ultraviolet Irradiation Deposition (UID), Vitamin C Reduction (VCR) and Sodium Borohydride Reduction (SBR)) for the visible-light photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes in magnetic field. And then the prepared Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites were characterized physically by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The visible-light photocatalytic activities of these three kinds of Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites were examined and compared through the degradation of several organic dyes under visible-light irradiation in magnetic field. In addition, some influence factors such as visible-light irradiation time, organic dye concentration, revolution speed, magnetic field intensity and organic dye kind on the visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composite were reviewed. The research results showed that the presence of magnetic field significantly enhanced the visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag deposited TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) composites and then contributed to the degradation of organic dyes.

  19. Thermochemical properties of silver tellurides including empressite (AgTe) and phase diagrams for Ag-Te and Ag-Te-O

    Science.gov (United States)

    Voronin, Mikhail V.; Osadchii, Evgeniy G.; Brichkina, Ekaterina A.

    2017-10-01

    This study compiles original experimental and literature data on the thermodynamic properties (ΔfG°, S°, ΔfH°) of silver tellurides (α-Ag2Te, β-Ag2Te, Ag1.9Te, Ag5Te3, AgTe) obtained by the method of solid-state galvanic cell with the RbAg4I5 and AgI solid electrolytes. The thermodynamic data for empressite (AgTe, pure fraction from Empress Josephine Mine, Colorado USA) have been obtained for the first time by the electrochemical experiment with the virtual reaction Ag + Te = AgTe. The Ag-Te phase diagrams in the T - x and log fTe2 (gas) - 1/ T coordinates have been refined, and the ternary Ag-Te-O diagrams with Ag-Te-TeO2 (paratellurite) composition range have been calculated.

  20. Plasma-induced formation of flower-like Ag2O nanostructures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yang, Zen-Hung; Ho, Chun-Hsien; Lee, Szetsen

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Flower-like Ag 2 O nanostructures. - Highlights: • Flower-like Ag 2 O nanostructures were synthesized from Ag colloids using plasma. • XPS was used to monitor plasma treatment effect on Ag colloids. • SERS of methyl orange was used to monitor the plasma oxidation–reduction processes. • Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue was performed using Ag 2 O. • Ag 2 O is a more efficient visible light photocatalyst than Ag colloids. - Abstract: Plasma treatment effect on Ag colloids was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) techniques. XPS showed that O 2 plasma was critical in removing organic residues in Ag colloids synthesized using citric acid as a reducing agent. With O 2 plasma treatment, Ag colloids were also oxidized to form flower-like Ag 2 O nanostructures. The formation mechanism is proposed. The SERS spectral intensity of methyl orange (MO) adsorbed on Ag surface became deteriorated with O 2 plasma treatment. Followed by H 2 plasma treatment, the SERS intensity of MO on Ag regained, which indicated that Ag 2 O has been reduced to Ag. Nonetheless, the reduction by H 2 plasma could not bring Ag back to the original as-synthesized nanoparticle morphology. The flower-like nanostructure morphology still remained. The photocatalytic degradation reactions of methylene blue (MB) aqueous solutions were carried out using Ag colloids and Ag 2 O nanostructures. The results show that Ag 2 O is more efficient than Ag colloids and many other metal oxides for the photocatalytic degradation of MB in solution when utilizing visible light

  1. Reversible conversion between AgCl and Ag in AgCl-doped RSiO{sub 3/2}-TiO{sub 2} films prepared by a sol-gel technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kawamura, Go, E-mail: gokawamura@ee.tut.ac.jp [Department of Electrical and Electronic Information Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Tsurumi, Yuuki [Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Muto, Hiroyuki [Department of Electrical and Electronic Information Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Sakai, Mototsugu; Inoue, Mitsuteru [Department of Electrical and Electronic Information Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Matsuda, Atsunori [Department of Electrical and Electronic Information Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan); Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, Toyohashi University of Technology, Toyohashi, Aichi 441-8580 (Japan)

    2011-10-17

    Highlights: {center_dot} The reversible redox behavior between AgCl and Ag in RSiO{sub 3/2}-TiO{sub 2} film is studied. {center_dot} TiO{sub 2} component induces Cl to remain in the film after conversion of AgCl to Ag. {center_dot} The survival of Cl is essential for reconversion of Ag to AgCl. {center_dot} The film shows potential to be applied as rewritable holographic material. - Abstract: The reversible redox behavior exhibited by AgCl-doped organosilsesquioxane-titania gel films is studied. Films prepared by the sol-gel method show reversible color changes with blue laser irradiation and subsequent heat treatment, which is based on the formation of Ag and AgCl nanoparticles, respectively. Two-beam interference exposure experiments reveal that the films have potential to be applied as rewritable holographic materials. A large titania content is essential for the conversion of Ag to AgCl because it induces the Cl to remain near the Ag nanoparticles during blue laser irradiation, allowing the Cl to react with neighboring Ag nanoparticles to reform AgCl upon subsequent heat treatment.

  2. [Ag(NH3)2]Ag(OsO3N)2: a new nitridoosmate(VIII)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wickleder, M.S.; Pley, Martin

    2004-01-01

    Dark brown single crystals of [Ag(NH 3 ) 2 ]Ag(OsO 3 N) 2 were obtained from the reaction of Ag 2 CO 3 , OsO 4 , and NH 3 in aqueous solution. The crystal structure was solved in the monoclinic space group C2/m, with the following unit-cell dimensions: a=1962.5(3), b=633.1(1), c=812.6(1) pm, β=96.71(1) deg. The final reliability factor was R=0.0256 for 1034 reflections with I>2σ(I). Linear [Ag(NH 3 ) 2 ] + ions are present oriented perpendicular to the [010] direction, leading to short Ag + -Ag + distances of 316 pm. A second type of Ag + ions in the crystal structure present coordination number '6+1' and are surrounded by oxygen and nitrogen atoms of the nitridoosmate groups. Within the first of the two crystallographically distinguishable anions one can clearly differentiate between oxygen and nitrogen atoms while the second one exhibits a N/O disorder over two positions. The infrared spectrum of [Ag(NH 3 ) 2 ]Ag(OsO 3 N) 2 shows the typical absorptions which can be attributed to the complex anions and the NH 3 ligands

  3. Ag-bridged Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array p–n heterojunction as a highly efficient and stable visible light photocatalyst

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Chengbin, E-mail: chem_cbliu@hnu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Persistent Pollutants Control and Resources Recycle, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China); State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Cao, Chenghao [State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Luo, Xubiao [Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Persistent Pollutants Control and Resources Recycle, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China); Luo, Shenglian [Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Persistent Pollutants Control and Resources Recycle, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China); State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China)

    2015-03-21

    Graphical abstract: A unique Ag-bridged Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array p–n heterojunction was fabricated by simple electrochemical method. The heterostructures exhibit high photocatalytic activity and excellent recycling performance. - Highlights: • Ag-bridged Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network self-stability structure. • Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network/TiO{sub 2} nanotube p–n heterojunction. • High visible light photocatalytic activity. • Highly stable recycling performance. - Abstract: A unique Ag-bridged Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array p–n heterojunction (Ag–Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} NT) was fabricated by simple electrochemical method. Ag nanoparticles were firstly electrochemically deposited onto the surface of TiO{sub 2} NT and then were partly oxidized to Ag{sub 2}O nanowires while the rest of Ag mother nanoparticles were located at the junctions of Ag{sub 2}O nanowire network. The Ag–Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} NT heterostructure exhibited strong visible-light response, effective separation of photogenerated carriers, and high adsorption capacity. The integration of Ag–Ag{sub 2}O self-stability structure and p–n heterojunction permitted high and stable photocatalytic activity of Ag–Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} NT heterostructure photocatalyst. Under 140-min visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic removal efficiency of both dye acid orange 7 (AO7) and industrial chemical p-nitrophenol (PNP) over Ag–Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} NT reached nearly 100% much higher than 17% for AO7 or 13% for PNP over bare TiO{sub 2} NT. After 5 successive cycles under 600-min simulated solar light irradiation, Ag–Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} NT remained highly stable photocatalytic activity.

  4. Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 nanoroasted rice beads with photocatalytic, antibacterial and anticancer activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Selvamani, Muthamizh; Krishnamoorthy, Giribabu; Ramadoss, Manigandan; Sivakumar, Praveen Kumar; Settu, Munusamy; Ranganathan, Suresh; Vengidusamy, Narayanan

    2016-01-01

    Increasing resistance of pathogens and cancer cell line towards antibiotics and anticancer agents has caused serious health problems in the past decades. Due to these problems in recent years, researchers have tried to combine nanotechnology with material science to have intrinsic antimicrobial and anticancer activity. The metals and metal oxides were investigated with respect to their antimicrobial and anticancer effects towards bacteria and cancer cell line. In the present work metal@metal tungstate (Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 nanoroasted rice beads) is investigated for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using Mueller-Hinton broth and the anticancer activity against B16F10 cell line was studied. Silver decorated silver tungstate (Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6) was synthesized by the microwave irradiation method using Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB). Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 was characterized by using various spectroscopic techniques. The phase and crystalline nature were analyzed by using XRD. The morphological analysis was carried out using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM). Further, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Raman spectral analysis were carried out in order to ascertain the presence of functional groups in Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6. The optical property was investigated using Diffuse Reflectance Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (DRS-UV–Vis) and the band gap was found to be 3.08 eV. Surface area of the synthesized Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 wasanalyzed by BET analysis and Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 was utilized for the degradation of organic dyes methylene blue and rhodamine B. The morphology of the Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 resembles roasted rice beads with breath and length in nm range. The oxidation state of tungsten (W) and silver (Ag) was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). - Highlights: • Synthesis of Ag@Ag_8W_4O_1_6 nanoroasted rice beads using

  5. Hierarchical Ag/AgCl-TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Xu Long; Yin, Hao Yong [College of Materials Environment Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Nie, Qiu Lin, E-mail: nieqiulin@hdu.edu.cn [College of Materials Environment Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Wu, Wei Wei [College of Materials Environment Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Zhang, Yang; LiYuan, Qiu [College of Science, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2017-01-01

    The hierarchical Ag/AgCl-TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres were synthesized by depositing Ag/AgCl nanoparticles on TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres via a precipitation photoreduction method, and they were further characterized using TGA, SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, UV–vis DRS and photoelectric chemical analysis. The analysis showed that the hierarchical Ag/AgCl-TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity, which was approximately 13 times higher than that of TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres. The high photocatalytic activity of the composites is due to efficient electron-hole pairs separation at the photocatalyst interfaces, and localized surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanoparticles formed on AgCl particles in the degradation reaction. - Highlights: • TiO{sub 2} hollow spheres were prepared by a sacrificial template method. • The hollow spheres were modified with Ag/AgCl to form the heterojunctions. • The modification may produce synergistic effect of LSPR and hollow structure. • Visible light photocatalytic activity was enhanced on this hollow catalyst. • The mechanism of the improved photocatalytic performance was discussed.

  6. Antimicrobial effect of Al2O3, Ag and Al2O3/Ag thin films on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas putida

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Angelov, O; Stoyanova, D; Ivanova, I; Todorova, S

    2016-01-01

    The influence of Al 2 O 3 , Ag and Al 2 O 3 /Ag thin films on bacterial growth of Gramnegative bacteria Pseudomonas putida and Escherichia coli is studied. The nanostructured thin films are deposited on glass substrates without intentional heating through r.f. magnetron sputtering in Ar atmosphere of Al 2 O 3 and Ag targets or through sequential sputtering of Al 2 O 3 and Ag targets, respectively. The individual Ag thin films (thickness 8 nm) have a weak bacteriostatic effect on Escherichia coli expressed as an extended adaptive phase of the bacteria up to 5 hours from the beginning of the experiment, but the final effect is only 10 times lower bacterial density than in the control. The individual Al 2 O 3 film (20 nm) has no antibacterial effect against two strains E. coli - industrial and pathogenic. The Al 2 O 3 /Ag bilayer films (Al 2 O 3 20 nm/Ag 8 nm) have strong bactericidal effect on Pseudomonas putida and demonstrate an effective time of disinfection for 2 hours. The individual films Al2O3 and Ag have not pronounced antibacterial effect on Pseudomonas putida . A synergistic effect of Al2O3/Ag bilayer films in formation of oxidative species on the surface in contact with the bacterial suspension could be a reason for their antimicrobial effect on E. coli and P. putida . (paper)

  7. Characterization and Comparison of Photocatalytic Activity Silver Ion doped on TiO2(TiO2/Ag+) and Silver Ion doped on Black TiO2(Black TiO2/Ag+)

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Jin Yi; Sim, Ho Hyung; Song, Sinae; Noh, Yeoung Ah; Lee, Hong Woon; Taik Kim, Hee

    2018-03-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the representative ceramic materials containing photocatalyst, optic and antibacterial activity. The hydroxyl radical in TiO2 applies to the intensive oxidizing agent, hence TiO2 is suitable to use photocatalytic materials. Black TiO2was prepared through reduction of amorphous TiO2 conducting under H2 which leads to color changes. Its black color is proven that absorbs 100% light across the whole-visible light, drawing enhancement of photocatalytic property. In this study, we aimed to compare the photocatalytic activity of silver ion doped on TiO2(TiO2/Ag+) and silver ion doped on black TiO2(black TiO2/Ag+) under visible light range. TiO2/Ag+ was fabricated following steps. 1) TiO2 was synthesized by a sol-gel method from Titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP). 2) Then AgNO3 was added during an aging process step for silver ion doping on the surface of TiO2. Moreover, Black TiO2/Ag+ was obtained same as TiO2/Ag+ except for calcination under H2. The samples were characterized X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible reflectance (UV-vis DRS), and Methylene Blue degradation test. XRD analysis confirmed morphology of TiO2. The band gap of black TiO2/Ag+ was confirmed (2.6 eV) through UV-vis DRS, which was lower than TiO2/Ag+ (2.9 eV). The photocatalytic effect was conducted by methylene blue degradation test. It demonstrated that black TiO2/Ag+ had a photocatalytic effect under UV light also visible light.

  8. Vancomycin-functionalised Ag-TiO{sub 2} phototoxicity for bacteria

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wan Yi [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Corrosion Science, Shandong Province, Institute of Oceanology, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071 (China); Zhang Dun, E-mail: zhangdun@ms.qdio.ac.cn [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Corrosion Science, Shandong Province, Institute of Oceanology, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071 (China); Wang Yi; Qi Peng; Wu Jiajia; Hou Baorong [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Corrosion Science, Shandong Province, Institute of Oceanology, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071 (China)

    2011-02-15

    Research highlights: {yields} A multivalent interaction between Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} and SRB. {yields} Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} allow for selective photokilling of pathogen. {yields} Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} show certain bactericidal property in dark. - Abstract: This study reports on the synthesis of vancomycin (Van)-functionalised Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles and their enhanced bactericidal activities. Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were prepared by nanoparticle deposition and chemical cross-linking reactions. The catalysts showed high efficiency for the degradation of methylene blue under ultraviolet (UV) illumination. The photocatalytic inactivation of the sulphate-reducing bacteria, Desulfotomaculum, was also studied under UV light irradiation and in the dark using aqueous mixtures of Ag, Ag-SiO{sub 2}, Ag-TiO{sub 2}, and Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2}. The Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles showed a capacity to target Van-sensitive bacteria. They also effectively prevented bacterial cell growth through the functionalised nanoparticles under UV irradiation for 1 h. To investigate the specificity of the catalyst phototoxicity, a Van-resistant bacteria, Vibrio anguillarum, was used as the negative control. The results indicated that Van-Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles had a higher selective phototoxicity for Van-sensitive bacteria. Therefore, the antibiotic molecule-functionalised core-shell nanoparticles allow for selective photokilling of pathogenic bacteria.

  9. Plasma-induced formation of flower-like Ag{sub 2}O nanostructures

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yang, Zen-Hung; Ho, Chun-Hsien; Lee, Szetsen, E-mail: slee@cycu.edu.tw

    2015-09-15

    Graphical abstract: Flower-like Ag{sub 2}O nanostructures. - Highlights: • Flower-like Ag{sub 2}O nanostructures were synthesized from Ag colloids using plasma. • XPS was used to monitor plasma treatment effect on Ag colloids. • SERS of methyl orange was used to monitor the plasma oxidation–reduction processes. • Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue was performed using Ag{sub 2}O. • Ag{sub 2}O is a more efficient visible light photocatalyst than Ag colloids. - Abstract: Plasma treatment effect on Ag colloids was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) techniques. XPS showed that O{sub 2} plasma was critical in removing organic residues in Ag colloids synthesized using citric acid as a reducing agent. With O{sub 2} plasma treatment, Ag colloids were also oxidized to form flower-like Ag{sub 2}O nanostructures. The formation mechanism is proposed. The SERS spectral intensity of methyl orange (MO) adsorbed on Ag surface became deteriorated with O{sub 2} plasma treatment. Followed by H{sub 2} plasma treatment, the SERS intensity of MO on Ag regained, which indicated that Ag{sub 2}O has been reduced to Ag. Nonetheless, the reduction by H{sub 2} plasma could not bring Ag back to the original as-synthesized nanoparticle morphology. The flower-like nanostructure morphology still remained. The photocatalytic degradation reactions of methylene blue (MB) aqueous solutions were carried out using Ag colloids and Ag{sub 2}O nanostructures. The results show that Ag{sub 2}O is more efficient than Ag colloids and many other metal oxides for the photocatalytic degradation of MB in solution when utilizing visible light.

  10. Phase formation in the Ag2O - MgO - MoO3 system and the crystal structure of new double molybdate Ag2Mg2(MoO4)3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tsyrenova, G.D.; Khajkina, E.G.; Khobrakova, Eh.T.; Solodovnikov, S.F.

    2001-01-01

    The phase correlations in subsolidus area of the Ag 2 O - MgO - MoO 3 system were studied, the Ag 2 MoO 4 - MgMoO 4 polythermal cross-section was investigated and its T-x diagram was constructed. X-ray diffraction and thermal analytic researches were conducted. The formation of the new double Ag 2 Mg 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 molybdates relating to the structural group Na 2 Mg 5 (MoO 4 ) 6 was established, and its structure (a=6.978(1), b=8.715(2), c=10.294(2) A, α=107.56(3) Deg, β=105.11(3) Deg, γ=103.68(3) Deg, Z=2, sp. gr. P 1-bar, R=0.038) was determined. The mixed carcass from the twin MgO 6 -octahedrons and MoO 4 -tetrahedrons, in which blankness the Ag atoms are arranged, stand out in the structure.The character of disordering in the part of Ag + is analogous to previously found one in the Ag 2 Zn 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 structure. The possible limits in the fields of homogeneity of silver-magnesium molybdate and its analogs, as well as the differences their structure from the structure of isotopic sodium-containing phases, are discussed [ru

  11. Understanding the Composition Dependence of the Fragility of AgI-Ag2O-MxOy Glassy Systems

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aniya, M

    2011-01-01

    It has been reported that the fragility in the AgI-Ag 2 O-M x O y (M = B, Ge, P, Mo) system is determined by Ag 2 O-M x O y and does not depend on the amount of AgI. This is an interesting result and provides a hint to understand the nature of the glassy state of these materials. However, the origin of such behavior has not been sufficiently discussed. In the present report a model for the above behavior is presented. According to the model, the behavior arises from the solid like nature of the network formed by Ag 2 O-M x O y and the liquid like AgI which flow between the networks. The model is consistent with the structural model of superionic glasses proposed previously.

  12. Enhanced photocatalytic performance of sandwiched ZnO@Ag@Cu2O nanorod films: the distinct role of Ag NPs in the visible light and UV region

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ren, Shoutian; Wang, Yingying; Wang, Benyang; Wang, Qiang; Zhao, Guoliang

    2015-01-01

    Sandwiched ZnO@Ag@Cu 2 O nanorod films were synthesized by successive electrodeposition, magnetron sputtering and the second electrodeposition. The as-synthesized composites were characterized by x-ray diffraction patterns, field emission scanning electron microscopy, low- and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and a UV–vis spectrophotometer. Their photocatalytic performance was estimated by the degradation of a methyl orange solution under UV or visible-light irradiation, respectively. In the visible region, due to localized surface plasmon resonance absorption of Ag NPs, ZnO@Ag@Cu 2 O showed a significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance. The enhancement factor of Ag NPs on the catalytic performance of ZnO@Ag@Cu 2 O was estimated as a function of the Cu 2 O deposition time, and the corresponding enhancement mechanism was also evaluated by the monochromatic photocatalytic experiment and discrete dipole approximation simulation. In the UV region, due to the formation of a Schottky junction (e.g. Ag/ZnO, Ag/Cu 2 O), a limited enhanced photocatalytic performance was also realized for ZnO@Ag@Cu 2 O photocatalysts. (paper)

  13. Preparation, characterization and photocatalytic activity of visible-light-driven plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe2O4 nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Xiaojuan; Tang, Duanlian; Tang, Fan; Zhu, Yunyan; He, Changfa; Liu, Minghua; Lin, Chunxiang; Liu, Yifan

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • A plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 photocatalyst has been successfully synthesized. • Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 nanocomposites exhibit high visible light photocatalytic activity. • Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 photocatalyst is stable and magnetically separable. - Abstract: A visible-light-driven plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized via a deposition–precipitation and photoreduction through a novel one-pot process. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy were employed to investigate the crystal structure, chemical composition, morphology, and optical properties of the as-prepared nanocomposites. The photocatalytic activities of the nanocomposites were evaluated by photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) and phenol under visible light. The results demonstrated that the obtained Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 nanocomposites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity as compared to pure ZnFe 2 O 4 . In addition, the sample photoreduced for 20 min and calcined at 500 °C achieved the highest photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the Ag/AgBr/ZnFe 2 O 4 nanocomposite has high stability under visible light irradiation and could be conveniently separated by using an external magnetic field

  14. Ag-ZnO nanostructure for ANTA explosive molecule detection

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shaik, Ummar Pasha [Advanced Center of Research in High Energy Materials, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046 (India); Sangani, L. D. Varma [Centre for Advanced Studies in Electronics Science and Technology, School of Physics, University of Hyderabad (India); Gaur, Anshu [Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, Via Sommarive9, Trento (Italy); Mohiddon, Md. Ahamad, E-mail: ahamed.vza@gmail.com [National Institute of Technology Andhra Pradesh, Tadepalliguem 534101, AP, India Phone : (+) 91-40-23134382, FAX: (+) 91-40-23010227 (India); Krishna, M. Ghanashyam [Advanced Center of Research in High Energy Materials, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046 (India); Centre for Advanced Studies in Electronics Science and Technology, School of Physics, University of Hyderabad (India); National Institute of Technology Andhra Pradesh, Tadepalliguem 534101, AP, India Phone : (+) 91-40-23134382, FAX: (+) 91-40-23010227 (India)

    2016-05-23

    Ag/ZnO nanostructure for surface enhanced Raman scattering application in the detection of ANTA explosive molecule is demonstrated. A highly rough ZnO microstructure was achieved by rapid thermal annealing of metallic Zn film. Different thickness Ag nanostructures are decorated over these ZnO microstructures by ion beam sputtering technique. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic studies carried out over Ag/ZnO substrates have shown three orders higher enhancement compared to bare Ag nanostructure deposited on the same substrate. The reasons behind such huge enhancement are discussed based on the morphology of the sample.

  15. Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} nanoroasted rice beads with photocatalytic, antibacterial and anticancer activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Selvamani, Muthamizh; Krishnamoorthy, Giribabu; Ramadoss, Manigandan; Sivakumar, Praveen Kumar; Settu, Munusamy [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai, 600 025 (India); Ranganathan, Suresh [Department of Chemistry, SRM University, Ramapuram Campus, Chennai, 600 089 (India); Vengidusamy, Narayanan, E-mail: vnnara@yahoo.co.in [Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai, 600 025 (India)

    2016-03-01

    Increasing resistance of pathogens and cancer cell line towards antibiotics and anticancer agents has caused serious health problems in the past decades. Due to these problems in recent years, researchers have tried to combine nanotechnology with material science to have intrinsic antimicrobial and anticancer activity. The metals and metal oxides were investigated with respect to their antimicrobial and anticancer effects towards bacteria and cancer cell line. In the present work metal@metal tungstate (Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} nanoroasted rice beads) is investigated for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using Mueller-Hinton broth and the anticancer activity against B16F10 cell line was studied. Silver decorated silver tungstate (Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16}) was synthesized by the microwave irradiation method using Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB). Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} was characterized by using various spectroscopic techniques. The phase and crystalline nature were analyzed by using XRD. The morphological analysis was carried out using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM). Further, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Raman spectral analysis were carried out in order to ascertain the presence of functional groups in Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16}. The optical property was investigated using Diffuse Reflectance Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (DRS-UV–Vis) and the band gap was found to be 3.08 eV. Surface area of the synthesized Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} wasanalyzed by BET analysis and Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} was utilized for the degradation of organic dyes methylene blue and rhodamine B. The morphology of the Ag@Ag{sub 8}W{sub 4}O{sub 16} resembles roasted rice beads with breath and length in nm range. The oxidation state of tungsten (W) and silver (Ag) was investigated using X-ray photoelectron

  16. Effect of Mixed Glass Former on Ionic Conductivity of Silver Boron Tungstate glass system x[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: (1-x) [Ag2O-(B2O3:WO3)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Dehariya, Harsha; Kumar, R; Polu, A R

    2012-01-01

    The idea to explore new 'Superionic Electrolytes', 'Fast ionic conductors' is due to their tremendous potential applications in solid state electrochemical devices viz. solid state batteries, fuel cells, sensors, super capacitors. Superionic glasses have attracted great deal of attention due to their several advantageous over their crystalline counterparts such as high ionic conductivity, easy preparation, wide selection of compositions, isotropic properties and high stability etc [4-7]. Large numbers of silver ion based glasses have been reported in the literature for the glassy system of AgI:Ag2O: MxOy (MxOy = B2O3, SiO2, P2O5, GeO2, V2O5, As2O5, CrO3, SeO2, MoO3 and TeO3 etc many of them shows high silver ion conductivity [8]. Ion transport behavior of Silver Boro Tungstate glass system x[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: (1-x) [Ag2O(B2O3:WO3)], where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 in molar wt% prepared by melt quench technique were reported. The new host [0.75AgI:0.25AgCl] was used as a better alternate in place of conventional host salt AgI. Conductivity measurement were carried out on this glass system as a function of frequency from 50 Hz to 5 MHz, over a temperature range of 27 C to 200 C, for different compositions by Impedance spectroscopy. The composition 0.7[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: 0.3[Ag2O(B2O3:WO3)] shows the highest conductivity of the order of σrt ∼ 2.76x10-2 S/cm, referred to as the Optimum Conducting Composition (OCC). The enhancement in the conductivity has been obtained by mixed former effect. XRD result shows that the system is completely amorphous. Temperature dependence of conductivity of all compositions were studied and reported. Activation energies (Ea) were also evaluated from the slope of .Log(σ) vs 1000/T, Arrhenius plots.

  17. Effect of Mixed Glass Former on Ionic Conductivity of Silver Boro Tungstate glass system x[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: (1-x) [Ag2O-{B2O3:WO3}

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dehariya, Harsha; Kumar, R.; Polu, A. R.

    2012-05-01

    The idea to explore new 'Superionic Electrolytes', "Fast ionic conductors" is due to their tremendous potential applications in solid state electrochemical devices viz. solid state batteries, fuel cells, sensors, super capacitors. Superionic glasses have attracted great deal of attention due to their several advantageous over their crystalline counterparts such as high ionic conductivity, easy preparation, wide selection of compositions, isotropic properties and high stability etc [4-7]. Large numbers of silver ion based glasses have been reported in the literature for the glassy system of AgI:Ag2O: MxOy (MxOy = B2O3, SiO2, P2O5, GeO2, V2O5, As2O5, CrO3, SeO2, MoO3 & TeO3 etc many of them shows high silver ion conductivity [8]. Ion transport behavior of Silver Boro Tungstate glass system x[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: (1-x) [Ag2O{B2O3:WO3}], where 0 <= x <= 1 in molar wt% prepared by melt quench technique were reported. The new host [0.75AgI:0.25AgCl] was used as a better alternate in place of conventional host salt AgI. Conductivity measurement were carried out on this glass system as a function of frequency from 50 Hz to 5 MHz, over a temperature range of 27°C to 200°C, for different compositions by Impedance spectroscopy. The composition 0.7[0.75AgI:0.25AgCl]: 0.3[Ag2O{B2O3:WO3}] shows the highest conductivity of the order of σrt ~ 2.76 × 10-2 S/cm, referred to as the Optimum Conducting Composition (OCC). The enhancement in the conductivity has been obtained by mixed former effect. XRD result shows that the system is completely amorphous. Temperature dependence of conductivity of all compositions were studied & reported. Activation energies (Ea) were also evaluated from the slope of .Log(σ) vs 1000/T, Arrhenius plots.

  18. Effect of Ag film thickness on the optical and the electrical properties in CuAlO2/Ag/CuAlO2 multilayer films grown on glass substrates

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Oh, Dohyun; No, Young Soo; Kim, Su Youn; Cho, Woon Jo; Kwack, Kae Dal; Kim, Tae Whan

    2011-01-01

    Research highlights: The CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films were grown on glass substrates using radio-frequency magnetron sputtering at room temperature. Effects of Ag film thickness on the optical and the electrical properties in CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films grown on glass substrates were investigated. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the phase of the CuAlO 2 layer was amorphous. Atomic force microscopy images showed that Ag films with a thickness of a few nanometers had island structures. The morphology Ag films with a thickness of 8 nm was uniform. The morphology of the Ag films inserted in the CuAlO 2 films significantly affected the optical transmittance and the resistivity of the CuAlO 2 films deposited on glass substrates. The maximum transmittance of the CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films with a thickness of 8 nm was 89.16%. The resistivity of the CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films with an Ag film thickness of 18 nm was as small as about 2.8 x 10 -5 Ω cm. The resistivity of the CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films was decreased as a result of the thermal annealing treatment. These results indicate that CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films grown on glass substrates hold promise for potential applications as TCO films in solar cells. - Abstract: Effects of Ag film thickness on the optical and the electrical properties in CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films grown on glass substrates were investigated. Atomic force microscopy images showed that Ag films with a thickness of a few nanometers had island structures. X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the phase of the CuAlO 2 layer was amorphous. The resistivity of the 40 nm-CuAlO 2 /18 nm-Ag/40 nm-CuAlO 2 multilayer films was 2.8 x 10 -5 Ω cm, and the transmittance of the multilayer films with an Ag film thickness of 8 nm was approximately 89.16%. These results indicate that CuAlO 2 /Ag/CuAlO 2 multilayer films grown on glass substrates hold promise for potential applications as

  19. Changes in the microbiological and chemical characteristics of white bread during storage in paper packages modified with Ag/TiO2-SiO2, Ag/N-TiO2 or Au/TiO2.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Peter, Anca; Mihaly-Cozmuta, Leonard; Mihaly-Cozmuta, Anca; Nicula, Camelia; Ziemkowska, Wanda; Basiak, Dariusz; Danciu, Virginia; Vulpoi, Adriana; Baia, Lucian; Falup, Anca; Craciun, Grigore; Ciric, Alexandru; Begea, Mihaela; Kiss, Claudia; Vatuiu, Daniela

    2016-04-15

    Microbiological and chemical characteristics of white bread during storage in paper-packages modified with Ag/TiO2-SiO2, Ag/N-TiO2 or Au/TiO2 were investigated. The whiteness and the water retention of the modified packages were slightly superior to those exhibited by the reference sample, as the color of the composite was lighter. The water retention was very good especially for the Ag/TiO2-SiO2-paper. These improvements can be associated with the high specific surface area and with the low agglomeration tendency of Ag nanoparticles in comparison with the Au ones. The preservation activity of the composites for the bread storage is positively influenced by photoactivity and presence of nano-Ag. Packages Ag/TiO2-SiO2-paper and Ag/N-TiO2-paper can find their applicability for extending the shelf life of bread by 2 days as compared with the unmodified paper-package. No influence of the Au/TiO2 on the extending the shelf life of bread was observed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. The bactericidal mechanism of action against Staphylococcus aureus for AgO nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shen, Wenning, E-mail: shenwenning@qq.com [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi' an University of Technology, No. 5 South Jinhua Road, Xi' an 710048 (China); Li, Pin [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi' an University of Technology, No. 5 South Jinhua Road, Xi' an 710048 (China); Feng, Hui [Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi' an 710032 (China); Ge, Yanfeng; Liu, Zheng; Feng, Lajun [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi' an University of Technology, No. 5 South Jinhua Road, Xi' an 710048 (China)

    2017-06-01

    To identify the mechanistic effects of AgO nanoparticles on Gram-positive bacteria, S. aureus cells suspended in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and deionized water were separately treated using AgO nanoparticles at different concentrations. The phase composition changes of the bactericide after killing S. aureus and the cellular responses of S. aureus to AgO were characterized by X-ray diffraction, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results show that AgO nanoparticles could kill S. aureus suspended in PBS and deionized water. The bactericidal effect of AgO bactericide against S. aureus in water was better than that in PBS, due to the formation of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} from the reaction between AgO and PBS. AgO nanoparticles exerted their bactericidal activity by multiple processes. AgO nanoparticles adhered to the surface of S. aureus cells firstly, then induced physical alterations in cell morphology and released silver ions, leading to initial injuries of cell membrane. Once membrane damage occurred, they entered the cells, and damaged the intracellular materials, eventually causing severe morphological and structural injuries to the cells and leakage of cytoplasm. - Highlights: • S. aureus in water was more sensitive to AgO than in PBS, since AgO reacted with PBS and formed Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. • After killing S. aureus in water, AgO did not changed. • AgO particles attached to cell surface then interacted with the cells, resulting in the increase of released silver contents. • Cell membrane damages by AgO nanoparticles were supported by the leakages of K{sup +}, proteins and DNA. • Serious cell morphological and structural changes were caused by AgO nanoparticles.

  1. The bactericidal mechanism of action against Staphylococcus aureus for AgO nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shen, Wenning; Li, Pin; Feng, Hui; Ge, Yanfeng; Liu, Zheng; Feng, Lajun

    2017-01-01

    To identify the mechanistic effects of AgO nanoparticles on Gram-positive bacteria, S. aureus cells suspended in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and deionized water were separately treated using AgO nanoparticles at different concentrations. The phase composition changes of the bactericide after killing S. aureus and the cellular responses of S. aureus to AgO were characterized by X-ray diffraction, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results show that AgO nanoparticles could kill S. aureus suspended in PBS and deionized water. The bactericidal effect of AgO bactericide against S. aureus in water was better than that in PBS, due to the formation of Ag 3 PO 4 from the reaction between AgO and PBS. AgO nanoparticles exerted their bactericidal activity by multiple processes. AgO nanoparticles adhered to the surface of S. aureus cells firstly, then induced physical alterations in cell morphology and released silver ions, leading to initial injuries of cell membrane. Once membrane damage occurred, they entered the cells, and damaged the intracellular materials, eventually causing severe morphological and structural injuries to the cells and leakage of cytoplasm. - Highlights: • S. aureus in water was more sensitive to AgO than in PBS, since AgO reacted with PBS and formed Ag 3 PO 4 . • After killing S. aureus in water, AgO did not changed. • AgO particles attached to cell surface then interacted with the cells, resulting in the increase of released silver contents. • Cell membrane damages by AgO nanoparticles were supported by the leakages of K + , proteins and DNA. • Serious cell morphological and structural changes were caused by AgO nanoparticles.

  2. Fabrication and characterization of Ag-Cd/CdO materials produced by incorporation of CdO particles to liquid Ag-Cd alloys; Fabricacion y caracterizacion de materiales Ag-Cd/CdO producidos mediante incorporacion de particulas de CdO en aleaciones Ag-Cd liquidas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Equihua-Guillen, F.; Ruiz-Mondragon, J.; Servin-Castaneda, R.; Orozco-Gonzalez, P.; Zaldivar-Cadena, A.; Martinez-Villafane, F.; Villarreal-Garza, E. J.

    2014-04-01

    In the present work it has been investigated the kinetic behavior of internal oxidation processes of strips of Ag-Cd/CdO materials fabricated by adding CdO particles (size of 5 and 20 {mu}m) in liquid Ag-Cd alloys. It has been established the metallurgical mechanism that controls the formation of the thickness covered with CdO particles produced by internal oxidation of the Ag-Cd/CdO material. It has been developed, successfully, a metallographic preparation technique for characterizing the morphology, size and distribution of CdO particles produced by heat treatment of internal oxidation on the surface of each sample based on the distance from the original surface to the boundary of dispersed CdO particles. The material strips were sequentially roughed on its surface and the roughing thickness was measured in the cross section of each new surface to determine the number of particles per area and average particle size. (Author)

  3. Synthesis of β-AgVO3 nanowires decorated with Ag2CrO4, with improved visible light photocatalytic performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ouyang, Qi; Li, Zhonghua; Liu, Jiawen

    2018-05-01

    Silver chromate‑silver vanadate (Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3) heterojunction composites are synthesized through a facile precipitation process. The Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 hybrids obtained exhibit better photocatalytic activity in degradation of RhB than both pure Ag2CrO4 and β-AgVO3 under visible light irradiation. The 20 wt% Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 heterojunction possesses the best photocatalytic ability for degrading RhB: 24.4 times that of pristine β-AgVO3 nanowires and 3.2 times that of individual Ag2CrO4 particles. The phase of the nanocomposites was analyzed using x-ray diffraction as well as x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Their morphology was observed via scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The improvement in photocatalytic performance is chiefly ascribed to the synergies between Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 heterostructure, which can enhance the light absorbance ability and also accelerate the separation and transfer of photoinduced electrons and holes under visible light irradiation; this is also confirmed by UV–vis diffuse reflection spectrometry and fluorescence emission spectra.

  4. W18O49 nanorods decorated with Ag/AgCl nanoparticles as highly-sensitive gas-sensing material and visible-light-driven photocatalyst

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sun Shibin; Chang Xueting; Dong Lihua; Zhang Yidong; Li Zhenjiang; Qiu Yanyan

    2011-01-01

    A novel gas-sensing material and photocatalyst was successfully obtained by decorating Ag/AgCl nanoparticles on the W 18 O 49 nanorods through a clean photochemical route. The as-prepared samples were characterized using combined techniques of X-ray diffractometry, electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Gas-sensing measurements indicate that the Ag/AgCl/W 18 O 49 NRs sensors exhibit superior reducing gas-sensing properties to those of bare W 18 O 49 NRs, and they are highly selective and sensitive to NH 3 , acetone, and H 2 S with short response and recovery times. The Ag/AgCl/W 18 O 49 NRs photocatlysts also possess higher photocatalytic performance than bare W 18 O 49 NRs for degradation of methyl orange under simulated sunlight irradiation. Possible mechanisms concerning the enhancement of gas-sensing and photocatalytic activities of the Ag/AgCl/W 18 O 49 NRs composite were proposed. - Graphical Abstract: The Ag/AgCl nanoparticles adhered well to the W 18 O 49 nanorod. The Ag could act as transfer center of the photoexcited carriers, prohibiting their recombinations in both W 18 O 49 and AgCl. Highlights: → Ag/AgCl/W 18 O 49 NRs were successfully obtained via a clean photochemical route. → The Ag/AgCl nanoparticles decorated on the W 18 O 49 NRs possessed cladding structure. → The Ag/AgCl/W 18 O 49 NRs exhibited excellent gas-sensing and photocatalytic properties.

  5. Structural and optical properties of AgCl-sensitized TiO2 (TiO2 @AgCl prepared by a reflux technique under alkaline condition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    V. A. Mu’izayanti

    Full Text Available Abstract The AgCl-sensitized TiO2 (TiO2@AgCl has been prepared from the precursor of TiO2-rutile type which on its surface adsorb chloride anion (Cl- and various amounts of silver using AgNO3 as starting material: AgNO3/(AgNO3+TiO2 mass ratio of 0.00, 1.14, 3.25, 6.38 and 10.32%. Reflux under alkaline condition was the employed technique. All samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD and diffuse reflectance UV-vis spectroscopy. The sample without the addition of AgNO3 was analyzed by scanning electron microscope and surface area analyzer. The morphology of the sample showed a distribution of microspheres of approximately 0.5 to 1.0 µm and the specific surface area was 68 m2/g. XRD patterns indicated that the sample without the addition of AgNO3 contained two types of TiO2: rutile (major and anatase (minor, whereas the samples with the addition of AgNO3 consisted of one phase of AgCl and two types of TiO2: rutile and anatase. The bandgaps of the samples were in the range of 2.97 to 3.24 eV, which were very close to the bandgap of intrinsic TiO2 powder. The presence of 0.8, 2.6 and 4.4 wt% of AgCl in each sample resulted in an additional bandgap in visible light region of 1.90, 1.94 and 2.26 eV, respectively, whereas the presence of 9.4 wt% of AgCl in the sample resulted in two bandgaps in visible light region of 1.98 and 1.88 eV.

  6. Coating stainless steel plates with Ag/TiO2 for chlorpyrifos decontamination

    Science.gov (United States)

    Abdel Fattah, Wafa I.; Gobara, Mohammed M.; El-Hotaby, Walid; Mostafa, Sherif F. M.; Ali, Ghareib W.

    2016-05-01

    Spray coatings of either nanosilver (Ag), titanium (TiO2) or nanosilver titanium (Ag/TiO2) on stainless steel substrates prepared by sol-gel process were successfully achieved. The efficiency of the Ag/TiO2 coat onto 316 stainless steel surface towards cloropyrifos degradation as a chemical warfare agent (CWA) was proved. The crystalline structure and morphological characterization, as well as surface roughness measurements, were assessed. X-ray diffraction results proved the crystalline TiO2 anatase phase. The uniform distribution of Ag along with TiO2 nanoparticles was evidenced through transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy mapping. The hydrophilic nature of individual Ag, TiO2 and Ag/TiO2 coats was proved by contact angle measurements. The loading of Ag nanoparticles influenced positively the Ag/TiO2 coats surface roughness. The photocatalytic cloropyrifos degradation achieved about 50% within one-hour post UV treatment proving, therefore, the promising Ag/TiO2 continued decontamination efficiency. In conclusion, tuning the physical and morphological properties of TiO2 coated on stainless steel surface could be significantly enhanced by Ag nanoparticles incorporation. The developed Ag/TiO2 coat could be conveniently applied as CWA decontaminant.

  7. Optical properties of Ag nanoclusters formed by irradiation and annealing of SiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2}:Ag thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Güner, S., E-mail: sguner@fatih.edu.tr [Department of Physics, Fatih University, 34500 Büyükçekmece, İstanbul (Turkey); Budak, S. [Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Alabama A and M University, Huntsville, AL 35810 (United States); Gibson, B. [Department of Physics, UAH, Huntsville, AL 35899 (United States); Ila, D. [Department of Chemistry and Physics, Fayetteville St. University, Fayetteville, NC 28301 (United States)

    2014-08-15

    Highlights: • Fabrication of films through the Reactive Electron Beam deposition technique. • Perfect and reproducible Ag nanoclustered host matrix. • Potential technological applicability in thermoelectric devices. - Abstract: We have deposited five periodic SiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} + Ag multi-nano-layered films on fused silica substrates using physical vapor deposition technique. The co-deposited SiO{sub 2}:Ag layers were 2.7–5 nm and SiO{sub 2} buffer layers were 1–15 nm thick. Total thickness was between 30 and 105 nm. Different concentrations of Ag, ranging from 1.5 to 50 molecular% with respect to SiO{sub 2} were deposited to determine relevant rates of nanocluster formation and occurrence of interaction between nanoclusters. Using interferometry as well as in situ thickness monitoring, we measured the thickness of the layers. The concentration of Ag in SiO{sub 2} was measured with Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). To nucleate Ag nanoclusters, 5 MeV cross plane Si ion bombardments were performed with fluence varying between 5 × 10{sup 14} and 1 × 10{sup 16} ions/cm{sup 2} values. Optical absorption spectra were recorded in the range of 200–900 nm in order to monitor the Ag nanocluster formation in the thin films. Thermal annealing treatment at different temperatures was applied as second method to form varying size of nanoclusters. The physical properties of formed super lattice were criticized for thermoelectric applications.

  8. Ultraviolet photosensors fabricated with Ag nanowires coated with ZnO nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shen, Guan-Hung [Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan (China); Hong, Franklin Chau-Nan, E-mail: hong@mail.ncku.edu.tw [Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan (China); Advanced Optoelectronic Technology Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan (China); Center for Micro/Nano Science and Technology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan (China); NCKU Research Center for Energy Technology and Strategy, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan (China)

    2014-11-03

    We have developed a simple low temperature process to coat zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) on Ag nanowires (NWs) with well-controlled morphology. Triethanolamine (TEA) was employed to react with zinc acetate (Zn(CH{sub 3}COO){sub 2}) forming ZnO NPs. TEA was also found to enhance the nucleation and binding of ZnO NPs on the Ag nanowire surfaces facilitating a complete coverage of Ag nanowire surfaces with ZnO NPs. The effects of the process parameters including reaction time and reaction temperature were studied. The surfaces of 60 nm diameter Ag NWs could be completely covered with ZnO NPs with the final diameters of Ag-NWs@ZnO (core–shell NWs) turning into the range from 100 nm to 450 nm. The Ag-NWs@ZnO was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray mapping analysis, X-ray diffraction, and photoluminescence spectra. Finally, ultraviolet (UV) photosensors were fabricated using Ag-NWs@ZnO. They were found to improve photosensitivity with greatly enhanced fast response by reducing the recovery time by 2 orders, in comparison with the UV-sensors using single-crystalline ZnO NWs. - Highlights: • Solution process to coat ZnO nanoparticles on Ag nanowires has been developed. • Ultraviolet photosensing of ZnO nanoparticles coated on the Ag nanowires was found. • High defect concentration of ZnO nanoparticles enhanced the photosensing properties.

  9. Ozone decomposition on Ag/SiO2 and Ag/clinoptilolite catalysts at ambient temperature

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nikolov, Penko; Genov, Krassimir; Konova, Petya; Milenova, Katya; Batakliev, Todor; Georgiev, Vladimir; Kumar, Narendra; Sarker, Dipak K.; Pishev, Dimitar; Rakovsky, Slavcho

    2010-01-01

    Silver modified zeolite (Bulgarian natural clinoptilolite) and Ag/silica catalysts were synthesized by ion exchange and incipient wet impregnation method respectively and characterized by different techniques. DC arc-AES was used for Ag detection. XRD spectra show that Ag is loaded over the surface of the SiO 2 sample and that after the ion-exchange process the HEU type structure of clinoptilolite is retained. UV-VIS (specific reflection at 310 nm) and IR (band at 695 cm -1 ) spectroscopy analysis proved that silver is loaded as a T-atom into zeolite channels as Ag + , instead of Na + , Ca 2+ , or K + ions, existing in the natural clinoptilolite form. The samples Ag/SiO 2 and Ag-clinoptilolite were tested as catalysts for decomposition of gas phase ozone. Very high catalytic activity (up to 99%) was observed and at the same time the catalysts remained active over time at room temperature.

  10. Enhanced antibacterial performance of Fe3O4–Ag and MnFe2O4 ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    sity in our daily life. ... enhances the biological activity of Ag NPs, but many stud- ... against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in this ..... Antimicrobial effects of Fe3O4@Nico@Ag, Fe3O4@His@Ag and Fe3O4@HA@Ag against Fe3O4 ...

  11. Controllable Charge Transfer in Ag-TiO2 Composite Structure for SERS Application

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yaxin Wang

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available The nanocaps array of TiO2/Ag bilayer with different Ag thicknesses and co-sputtering TiO2-Ag monolayer with different TiO2 contents were fabricated on a two-dimensional colloidal array substrate for the investigation of Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS properties. For the TiO2/Ag bilayer, when the Ag thickness increased, SERS intensity decreased. Meanwhile, a significant enhancement was observed when the sublayer Ag was 10 nm compared to the pure Ag monolayer, which was ascribed to the metal-semiconductor synergistic effect that electromagnetic mechanism (EM provided by roughness surface and charge-transfer (CT enhancement mechanism from TiO2-Ag composite components. In comparison to the TiO2/Ag bilayer, the co-sputtered TiO2-Ag monolayer decreased the aggregation of Ag particles and led to the formation of small Ag particles, which showed that TiO2 could effectively inhibit the aggregation and growth of Ag nanoparticles.

  12. A Simple Method for the Preparation of TiO2 /Ag-AgCl@Polypyrrole Composite and Its Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Activity.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yao, Tongjie; Shi, Lei; Wang, Hao; Wang, Fangxiao; Wu, Jie; Zhang, Xiao; Sun, Jianmin; Cui, Tieyu

    2016-01-01

    A novel and facile method was developed to prepare a visible-light driven TiO2 /Ag-AgCl@polypyrrole (PPy) photocatalyst with Ag-AgCl nanoparticles supported on TiO2 nanofibers and covered by a thin PPy shell. During the synthesis, the PPy shell and Ag-AgCl nanoparticles were prepared simultaneously onto TiO2 nanofibers, which simplified the preparation procedure. In addition, because Ag-AgCl aggregates were fabricated via partly etching the Ag nanoparticles, their size was well controlled at the nanoscale, which was beneficial for improvement of the contact surface area. Compared with reference photocatalysts, the TiO2 /Ag-AgCl@PPy composite exhibited an enhanced photodegradation activity towards rhodamine B under visible-light irradiation. The superior photocatalytic property originated from synergistic effects between TiO2 nanofibers, Ag-AgCl nanoparticles and the PPy shell. Furthermore, the TiO2 /Ag-AgCl@PPy composite could be easily separated and recycled without obvious reduction in activity. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  13. A simple photolytic reactor employing Ag-doped ZnO nanowires for water purification

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Udom, Innocent; Zhang, Yangyang [Clean Energy Research Center, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620 (United States); Ram, Manoj K., E-mail: mkram@usf.edu [Clean Energy Research Center, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620 (United States); Stefanakos, Elias K. [Clean Energy Research Center, College of Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620 (United States); Hepp, Aloysius F. [Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, Fl 33620 (United States); Elzein, Radwan; Schlaf, Rudy [Department of Electrical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, Fl 33620 (United States); Goswami, D. Yogi [NASA Glenn Research Center, Research and Technology Directorate, MS 302-1, 21000 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, OH 44135 (United States)

    2014-08-01

    Well-aligned native zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver-doped ZnO (Ag-ZnO) films were deposited on borosilicate glass via a simple, low-cost, low-temperature, scalable hydrothermal process. The as-synthesized ZnO and Ag-ZnO films were characterized by X-ray diffraction; scanning electron microscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. A simple photolytic reactor was fabricated and later used to find the optimum experimental conditions for photocatalytic performance. The photodegradation of methyl orange in water was investigated using as-prepared ZnO and Ag-ZnO nanowires, and was compared to P25 (a commercial photocatalyst) in both visible and UV radiations. The P25 and Ag-ZnO showed a similar photodegradation performance under UV light, but Ag-ZnO demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity under visible irradiation. The optimized doping of Ag in Ag-ZnO enhanced photocatalytic activity in a simple reactor design and indicated potential applicability of Ag-ZnO for large-scale purification of water under solar irradiation. - Highlights: • Well-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver-doped ZnO (Ag-ZnO) nanowires were developed. • Simple and effective photolytic reactor was fabricated for water purification. • Ag-ZnO demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity under visible irradiation. • Amount of Ag atoms in Ag-ZnO nanowires is a key to increase photocatalytic activity.

  14. A simple photolytic reactor employing Ag-doped ZnO nanowires for water purification

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Udom, Innocent; Zhang, Yangyang; Ram, Manoj K.; Stefanakos, Elias K.; Hepp, Aloysius F.; Elzein, Radwan; Schlaf, Rudy; Goswami, D. Yogi

    2014-01-01

    Well-aligned native zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver-doped ZnO (Ag-ZnO) films were deposited on borosilicate glass via a simple, low-cost, low-temperature, scalable hydrothermal process. The as-synthesized ZnO and Ag-ZnO films were characterized by X-ray diffraction; scanning electron microscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. A simple photolytic reactor was fabricated and later used to find the optimum experimental conditions for photocatalytic performance. The photodegradation of methyl orange in water was investigated using as-prepared ZnO and Ag-ZnO nanowires, and was compared to P25 (a commercial photocatalyst) in both visible and UV radiations. The P25 and Ag-ZnO showed a similar photodegradation performance under UV light, but Ag-ZnO demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity under visible irradiation. The optimized doping of Ag in Ag-ZnO enhanced photocatalytic activity in a simple reactor design and indicated potential applicability of Ag-ZnO for large-scale purification of water under solar irradiation. - Highlights: • Well-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver-doped ZnO (Ag-ZnO) nanowires were developed. • Simple and effective photolytic reactor was fabricated for water purification. • Ag-ZnO demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity under visible irradiation. • Amount of Ag atoms in Ag-ZnO nanowires is a key to increase photocatalytic activity

  15. Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants over Flower-Like Bi2O2CO3 Dotted with Ag@AgBr

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shuanglong Lin

    2016-10-01

    Full Text Available A facile and feasible oil-in-water self-assembly approach was developed to synthesize flower-like Ag@AgBr/Bi2O2CO3 micro-composites. The photocatalytic activities of the samples were evaluated through methylene blue degradation under visible light irradiation. Compared to Bi2O2CO3, flower-like Ag@AgBr/Bi2O2CO3 micro-composites show enhanced photocatalytic activities. In addition, results indicate that both the physicochemical properties and associated photocatalytic activities of Ag@AgBr/Bi2O2CO3 composites are shown to be dependent on the loading quantity of Ag@AgBr. The highest photocatalytic performance was achieved at 7 wt % Ag@AgBr, degrading 95.18% methylene blue (MB after 20 min of irradiation, which is over 1.52 and 3.56 times more efficient than that of pure Ag@AgBr and pure Bi2O2CO3, respectively. Bisphenol A (BPA was also degraded to further demonstrate the degradation ability of Ag@AgBr/Bi2O2CO3. A photocatalytic mechanism for the degradation of organic compounds over Ag@AgBr/Bi2O2CO3 was proposed. Results from this study illustrate an entirely new approach to fabricate semiconductor composites containing Ag@AgX/bismuth (X = a halogen.

  16. Fabrication of Ag/ZnO heterostructure and the role of surface coverage of ZnO microrods by Ag nanoparticles on the photophysical and photocatalytic properties of the metal-semiconductor system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sarma, Bikash; Sarma, Bimal K., E-mail: sarmabimal@gmail.com

    2017-07-15

    Highlights: • Fabrication of Ag/ZnO heterostructure by facile chemical processes. • Decoration of plasmonic Ag nanoparticles on ZnO microrods through direct attachment. • Quenching of photoluminescence is observed in Ag/ZnO heterostructure. • Extent of surface coverage governs photophysical and photochemical properties. - Abstract: This report presents findings on microstructural, photophysical, and photocatalytic properties of Ag/ZnO heterostructure grown on flexible and silicon substrates. ZnO microrods are prepared by thermal decomposition method for different solute concentrations and Ag/ZnO heterostructure are fabricated by photo-deposition of Ag nanoparticles on ZnO microrods. X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy studies confirm that ZnO microrods belong to the hexagonal wurtzite structure and grown along [001] direction with random alignment showing that majority microrods are aligned with (100) face parallel to the sample surface. Plasmonic Ag nanoparticles are attached to different faces of ZnO. In the optical reflection spectra of Ag/ZnO heterostructure, the surface plasmon resonance peak due to Ag nanoparticles appears at 445 nm. Due to the oxygen vacancies the band gaps of ZnO microrods turn out to be narrower compared to that of bulk ZnO. The presence of Ag nanoparticles decreases the photoluminescence intensity which might be attributed to the non-radiative energy and direct electron transfer in the plasmon–exciton system. The quenching of photoluminescence in Ag/ZnO heterostructure at different growth conditions depend on the extent of surface coverage of ZnO by plasmonic Ag nanoparticles. Photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Ag/ZnO heterostructure is higher than that of ZnO microrods. The extent of surface coverage of ZnO microrods by Ag nanoparticles is crucial for the observed changes in photophysical and photochemical properties.

  17. Reducing strength prevailing at root surface of plants promotes reduction of Ag+ and generation of Ag(0/Ag2O nanoparticles exogenously in aqueous phase.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Peddisetty Pardha-Saradhi

    Full Text Available Potential of root system of plants from wide range of families to effectively reduce membrane impermeable ferricyanide to ferrocyanide and blue coloured 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP to colourless DCPIPH2 both under non-sterile and sterile conditions, revealed prevalence of immense reducing strength at root surface. As generation of silver nanoparticles (NPs from Ag+ involves reduction, present investigations were carried to evaluate if reducing strength prevailing at surface of root system can be exploited for reduction of Ag+ and exogenous generation of silver-NPs. Root system of intact plants of 16 species from 11 diverse families of angiosperms turned clear colorless AgNO3 solutions, turbid brown. Absorption spectra of these turbid brown solutions showed silver-NPs specific surface plasmon resonance peak. Transmission electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive X-ray confirmed the presence of distinct NPs in the range of 5-50 nm containing Ag. Selected area electron diffraction and powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the silver NPs showed Bragg reflections, characteristic of crystalline face-centered cubic structure of Ag(0 and cubic structure of Ag2O. Root system of intact plants raised under sterile conditions also generated Ag(0/Ag2O-NPs under strict sterile conditions in a manner similar to that recorded under non-sterile conditions. This revealed the inbuilt potential of root system to generate Ag(0/Ag2O-NPs independent of any microorganism. Roots of intact plants reduced triphenyltetrazolium to triphenylformazon and impermeable ferricyanide to ferrocyanide, suggesting involvement of plasma membrane bound dehydrogenases in reduction of Ag+ and formation of Ag(0/Ag2O-NPs. Root enzyme extract reduced triphenyltetrazolium to triphenylformazon and Ag+ to Ag(0 in presence of NADH, clearly establishing potential of dehydrogenases to reduce Ag+ to Ag(0, which generate Ag(0/Ag2O-NPs. Findings presented in this manuscript put

  18. Structure and photoluminescence properties of Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li Xiaozhu, E-mail: Lixiaozhu1019@21cn.com [Department of Physics, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, Guangdong 512005 (China) and Department of Physics and Key Laboratory of Acoustic and Photonic Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072 (China); Wang Yongqian [Engineering Research Center of Nano-Geomaterials of Ministry of Education (China University of Geosciences), Wuhan, Hubei 430074 (China)

    2011-05-12

    Highlights: > ZnO nano-needles were synthesized by thermal oxidation. > Their surfaces were coated with Ag by pulse electro-deposition technique. > The uncoated and coated ZnO nano-needles were characterized. > The results showed that the prepared ZnO nano-needles have been coated with Ag successfully. > The photoluminescence spectrums of ZnO nano-needles with Ag-coated and uncoated were analyzed, finding that the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles can increase the absorption of UV light. - Abstract: A large number of zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-needles were synthesized by thermal oxidation of pure zinc. The surfaces of ZnO nano-needles were coated with a layer of Ag by pulse electro-deposition technique. The uncoated and coated ZnO nano-needles were characterized by using the X-ray diffraction and the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that the uncoated samples were close-packed hexagonal structure, which showed needle-like morphology. Their average diameter is about 40 nm, lengths up to 5 {mu}m. At the same time we observed that the prepared ZnO nano-needles have been coated with Ag successfully. The photoluminescence spectrums of ZnO nano-needles with Ag-coated and uncoated were analyzed, finding that the uncoated ZnO nano-needles have two fluorescence peaks at 388 nm and 470.8 nm, respectively, the relative intensity of 143.4 and 93.61; and the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles showed a pair of strong peaks at 387.4 nm and 405.2 nm, the relative intensity of 1366 and 1305, respectively, indicating that the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles can increase the absorption of UV light.

  19. Ag modified LaCoO3 perovskite oxide for photocatalytic application

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jayapandi, S.; Prakasini, V. Anitha; Anitha, K.

    2018-04-01

    The present investigation has been carried out to develop a novel photocatalytic material based on lanthanum cobaltite (LaCoO3) and silver (Ag) doped LaCoO3 perovskite oxide. Pure LaCoO3 and 5 Mol% Ag doped LaCoO3 (Ag-LaCoO3) have been synthesized by simple co-precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and photoluminescence (PL) techniques and its photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photodegradation of methylene blue under sunlight irradiation. The observed XRD, UV and PL results indicate that Ag influences on the crystallite size and absorption coefficient of LaCoO3 perovskite oxide. The percentage of dye degradations was calculated as 60% and 99 % for LaCoO3 and 5 Mol% Ag-LaCoO3 pervoskite oxides respectively for 10 minutes (10 min) exposure to sunlight, which indicates that 5 mol% of Ag-LaCoO3, has better photodegradation activity. Hence, the present investigation confirms that Ag influences the photocatalytic activity of a material and the observations will be helpful for further developing new photocatalytic materials.

  20. Comparative Compton scattering studies in Cu2O and Ag2O

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bandyopadhyay, S.; Chatterjee, A.K.; Saha, S.K.; Chatterjee, A.

    1994-01-01

    Compton scattering studies in polycrystalline Cu 2 O and Ag 2 O with 59.54 keV γ radiation are reported. A comparison has been made between the valance Compton profiles of these two components scaled to lattice momentum by normalizing them to equal electron density for outer valence electrons, and this comparison shows some differences between the bonding characters of Cu 2 O and Ag 2 O. (author)

  1. Structure and photoluminescence properties of Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li Xiaozhu; Wang Yongqian

    2011-01-01

    Highlights: → ZnO nano-needles were synthesized by thermal oxidation. → Their surfaces were coated with Ag by pulse electro-deposition technique. → The uncoated and coated ZnO nano-needles were characterized. → The results showed that the prepared ZnO nano-needles have been coated with Ag successfully. → The photoluminescence spectrums of ZnO nano-needles with Ag-coated and uncoated were analyzed, finding that the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles can increase the absorption of UV light. - Abstract: A large number of zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-needles were synthesized by thermal oxidation of pure zinc. The surfaces of ZnO nano-needles were coated with a layer of Ag by pulse electro-deposition technique. The uncoated and coated ZnO nano-needles were characterized by using the X-ray diffraction and the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that the uncoated samples were close-packed hexagonal structure, which showed needle-like morphology. Their average diameter is about 40 nm, lengths up to 5 μm. At the same time we observed that the prepared ZnO nano-needles have been coated with Ag successfully. The photoluminescence spectrums of ZnO nano-needles with Ag-coated and uncoated were analyzed, finding that the uncoated ZnO nano-needles have two fluorescence peaks at 388 nm and 470.8 nm, respectively, the relative intensity of 143.4 and 93.61; and the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles showed a pair of strong peaks at 387.4 nm and 405.2 nm, the relative intensity of 1366 and 1305, respectively, indicating that the Ag-coated ZnO nano-needles can increase the absorption of UV light.

  2. Preparation of Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs composite photocatalysts for enhancement of ciprofloxacin degradation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Huiqin [School of Materials Science & Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Li, Jinze [School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Huo, Pengwei, E-mail: huopw1@163.com [School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Institute of Green Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Yan, Yongsheng [School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Institute of Green Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Guan, Qingfeng [School of Materials Science & Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China)

    2016-03-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs were prepared by calcination of the obtained precipitate. • The holes were main contributor for the degradation processes of ciprofloxacin. • The synergistic effect enhanced the activity and stability of composites. - Abstract: The Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNTs) composite photocatalysts were prepared by calcination of the obtained precipitate. The structures and morphology of as-prepared composite photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs composite photocatalysts exhibit higher degradation rate of ciprofloxacin (CIP) than the pure Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}, Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs under visible light irradiation. The amount of loaded Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} onto MWNTs and calcined time for Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs were systematically investigated, and the optimal amount of loaded Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and calcined time of Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs are 150 wt% and 10 min, respectively. The highest photocatalytic degradation rate of CIP could reach 76% under optimal conditions. The active species trapping experiments were also analyzed, the results show that the holes are main contributor for the degradation processes of CIP, furthermore the electrons, ·O{sub 2}{sup −} and ·OH are also crucially influenced the photocatalytic degradation processes of CIP. The possible photocatalytic processes of CIP with Ag{sub 2}O/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/MWNTs composite photocatalyst are also proposed.

  3. Direct in situ activation of Ag0 nanoparticles in synthesis of Ag/TiO2 and its photoactivity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jaafar, N.F.; Jalil, A.A.; Triwahyono, S.; Efendi, J.; Mukti, R.R.; Jusoh, R.; Jusoh, N.W.C.; Karim, A.H.; Salleh, N.F.M.; Suendo, V.

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag 0 loaded on TiO 2 was prepared by a direct in situ electrochemical method. • 5 wt% Ag–TiO 2 demonstrated the best photocatalytic degradation of 2-CP. • Isomorphous substitution of Ag with Ti occurred to form Ti−O−Ag bonds. • Ag 0 and oxygen vacancies trapped electrons to enhance e–H + separation. • Substitution of Ag in the TiO 2 structure decreased the number of oxygen vacancies. - Abstract: Metallic Ag nanoparticles (Ag 0 ) were successfully activated using a direct in situ electrochemical method before being supported on TiO 2 . Catalytic testing showed that 5 wt% Ag–TiO 2 gave the highest photodegradation (94%) of 50 mg L −1 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) at pH 5 using 0.375 g L −1 catalyst within 6 h, while under similar conditions, 1 wt% and 10 wt% Ag–TiO 2 only gave 75% and 78% degradation, respectively. Characterization results illustrated that the photoactivity was affected by the amount of Ag 0 and oxygen vacancies which act as an electrons trap to enhance the electron–hole separation. While, the Ag−O−Ti bonds formation reduced the photoactivity. The degradation followed a pseudo-first order Langmuir–Hinshelwood model where adsorption was the controlling step. Study on the effect of scavengers showed that the hole (H + ) and hydroxyl radical (OH·) play important roles in the photodegradation. The regenerated photocatalyst was still stable after five cycling runs

  4. Design of medium band gap Ag-Bi-Nb-O and Ag-Bi-Ta-O semiconductors for driving direct water splitting with visible light.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Limin; Cao, Bingfei; Kang, Wei; Hybertsen, Mark; Maeda, Kazuhiko; Domen, Kazunari; Khalifah, Peter G

    2013-08-19

    Two new metal oxide semiconductors belonging to the Ag-Bi-M-O (M = Nb, Ta) chemical systems have been synthesized as candidate compounds for driving overall water splitting with visible light on the basis of cosubstitution of Ag and Bi on the A-site position of known Ca2M2O7 pyrochlores. The low-valence band edge energies of typical oxide semiconductors prevents direct water splitting in compounds with band gaps below 3.0 eV, a limitation which these compounds are designed to overcome through the incorporation of low-lying Ag 4d(10) and Bi 6s(2) states into compounds of nominal composition "AgBiM2O7". It was found that the "AgBiTa2O7" pyrochlores are in fact a solid solution with an approximate range of Ag(x)Bi(5/6)Ta2O(6.25+x/2) with 0.5 semiconductors with the onset of strong direct absorption at 2.72 and 2.96 eV, respectively. Electronic structure calculations for an ordered AgBiNb2O7 structure show that the band gap reduction and the elevation of the valence band primarily result from hybridized Ag d(10)-O 2p orbitals that lie at higher energy than the normal O 2p states in typical pyrochlore oxides. While the minimum energy gap is direct in the band structure, the lowest energy dipole allowed optical transitions start about 0.2 eV higher in energy than the minimum energy transition and involve different bands. This suggests that the minimum electronic band gap in these materials is slightly smaller than the onset energy for strong absorption in the optical measurements. The elevated valence band energies of the niobate and tantalate compounds are experimentally confirmed by the ability of these compounds to reduce 2 H(+) to H2 gas when illuminated after functionalization with a Pt cocatalyst.

  5. Polyester fabric coated with Ag/ZnO composite film by magnetron sputtering

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yuan, Xiaohong, E-mail: yxhong1981_2004@126.com [Key Laboratory of Eco-Textiles, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu (China); Faculty of Clothing and Design, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350121, Fujian (China); Xu, Wenzheng, E-mail: xwz8199@126.com [Key Laboratory of Eco-Textiles, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu (China); Huang, Fenglin, E-mail: windhuang325@163.com [Key Laboratory of Eco-Textiles, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu (China); Chen, Dongsheng, E-mail: mjuchen@126.com [Faculty of Clothing and Design, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350121, Fujian (China); Wei, Qufu, E-mail: qfwei@jiangnan.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Eco-Textiles, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu (China)

    2016-12-30

    Highlights: • Ag/ZnO composite film was successfully deposited on polyester fabric by magnetron sputtering technique. • Ag film was easily oxidized into Ag{sub 2}O film in high vacuum oxygen environment. • The zinc film coated on the surface of Ag film before RF reactive sputtering could protect the silver film from oxidation. • Polyester fabric coated with Ag/ZnO composite film can obtained structural color. • The anti-ultraviolet and antistatic properties of polyester fabric coated with Ag/ZnO composite film all were good. - Abstract: Ag/ZnO composite film was successfully deposited on polyester fabric by using direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering and radio frequency (RF) magnetron reaction sputtering techniques with pure silver (Ag) and zinc (Zn) targets. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to examine the deposited film on the fabric. It was found that the zinc film coated on Ag film before RF reactive sputtering could protect the silver film from oxidation. Anti-ultraviolet property and antistatic property of the coated samples using different magnetron sputtering methods were also investigated. The experimental results showed that Ag film was oxidized into in Ag{sub 2}O film in high vacuum oxygen environment. The deposition of Zn film on the surface of the fabric coated with Ag film before RF reactive sputtering, could successfully obtained Ag/ZnO composite film, and also generated structural color on the polyester fabric.

  6. Photocatalytic properties of porous TiO2/Ag thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chang, C.-C.; Chen, J.-Y.; Hsu, T.-L.; Lin, C.-K.; Chan, C.-C.

    2008-01-01

    In this study, nanocrystalline TiO 2 /Ag composite thin films were prepared by a sol-gel spin-coating technique. By introducing polystyrene (PS) spheres into the precursor solution, porous TiO 2 /Ag thin films were prepared after calcination at a temperature of 500 deg. C for 4 h. Three different sizes (50, 200, and 400 nm) of PS spheres were used to prepare porous TiO 2 films. The as-prepared TiO 2 and TiO 2 /Ag thin films were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and by scanning electron microscopy to reveal structural and morphological differences. In addition, the photocatalytic properties of these films were investigated by degrading methylene blue under UV irradiation. When PS spheres of different sizes were introduced after calcination, the as-prepared TiO 2 films exhibited different porous structures. XRD results showed that all TiO 2 /Ag films exhibited a major anatase phase. The photodegradation of porous TiO 2 thin films prepared with 200 nm PS spheres and doped with 1 mol% Ag exhibited the best photocatalytic efficiency where ∼ 100% methylene blue was decomposed within 8 h under UV exposure

  7. Ozone decomposition on Ag/SiO{sub 2} and Ag/clinoptilolite catalysts at ambient temperature

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nikolov, Penko, E-mail: penmail@mail.bg [Institute of Catalysis, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia (Bulgaria); Genov, Krassimir; Konova, Petya [Institute of General and Inorganic Chemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia (Bulgaria); Milenova, Katya; Batakliev, Todor; Georgiev, Vladimir [Institute of Catalysis, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia (Bulgaria); Kumar, Narendra [Laboratory of Industrial Chemistry, Process Chemistry Centre, Abo Akademi University, Biskopsgatan 8, 20500 Abo/Turku (Finland); Sarker, Dipak K. [School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton BN2 4GJ (United Kingdom); Pishev, Dimitar [University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, 1756 Sofia (Bulgaria); Rakovsky, Slavcho [Institute of Catalysis, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia (Bulgaria)

    2010-12-15

    Silver modified zeolite (Bulgarian natural clinoptilolite) and Ag/silica catalysts were synthesized by ion exchange and incipient wet impregnation method respectively and characterized by different techniques. DC arc-AES was used for Ag detection. XRD spectra show that Ag is loaded over the surface of the SiO{sub 2} sample and that after the ion-exchange process the HEU type structure of clinoptilolite is retained. UV-VIS (specific reflection at 310 nm) and IR (band at 695 cm{sup -1}) spectroscopy analysis proved that silver is loaded as a T-atom into zeolite channels as Ag{sup +}, instead of Na{sup +}, Ca{sup 2+}, or K{sup +} ions, existing in the natural clinoptilolite form. The samples Ag/SiO{sub 2} and Ag-clinoptilolite were tested as catalysts for decomposition of gas phase ozone. Very high catalytic activity (up to 99%) was observed and at the same time the catalysts remained active over time at room temperature.

  8. Photodegradation properties and optics of Ag/TiO{sub 2} films; Propiedades de fotodegradacion y opticas de peliculas Ag/TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tirado G, S. [IPN, Escuela Superior de Fisica y Matematicas, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico); Valenzuela Z, M. A., E-mail: tirado@esfm.ipn.mx [IPN, Escuela Superior de Ingenieria Quimica e Industrias Extractivas, Laboratorio de Catalisis y Materiales, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07738 Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico)

    2016-10-15

    In the thin semiconductor films of Ag/TiO{sub 2} the topographic properties were recorded by atomic force microscopy and the main parameters of roughness were determined; the optical properties were also recorded when determining their transmittance degree, their refractive indexes, their thickness and the bandwidth of the semiconductor Eg, both for pure TiO{sub 2} films and the modified Ag/TiO{sub 2} films with various layers of the Ag catalyst. The Ag/TiO{sub 2} films that were grown by sol-gel and repeated immersion, chemical technique that has been used in the development of thin film technology, were carried out in photo catalysis, when are used in photo degradation of methyl orange at an aqueous concentration of 14 ppm, once they are characterized with several techniques required to be able to explain the possible photo catalytic reactions at the solid-aqueous interface, when irradiated with UV; with the possible application in water treatment. The photoluminescence spectra of the prepared Ag/TiO{sub 2} samples are reported, which resulted in a green emission, characteristic of the visible, in addition to emissions in the UV range. (Author)

  9. Bactericidal impact of Ag, ZnO and mixed AgZnO colloidal nanoparticles on H37Rv Mycobacterium tuberculosis phagocytized by THP-1 cell lines.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jafari, Alireza; Mosavari, Nader; Movahedzadeh, Farahnaz; Nodooshan, Saeedeh Jafari; Safarkar, Roya; Moro, Rossella; Kamalzadeh, Morteza; Majidpour, Ali; Boustanshenas, Mina; Mosavi, Tahereh

    2017-09-01

    The purpose of this research project was to infection of human macrophages (THP-1) cell lines by H 37 Rv strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H 37 RvMTB) and find out the ratio/dilution of mixture silver (Ag NPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) whose ability to eliminate phagocytized bacteria compared to rifampicin. The colloidal Ag NPs and ZnO NPs were synthesized and their characteristics were evaluated. The THP-1 cell lines were infected with different concentration of H 37 RvMTB. Next, the infected cells were treated with different ratios/dilutions of Ag NPs, ZnO NPs and rifampicin. The THP-1 were lysed and were cultured in Lowenstein-Jensen agar medium, for eight weeks. The TEM and AFM images of NPs and H 37 RvMTB were supplied. It is observed that Ag NPs, 2 Ag :8 ZnO and 8 Ag :2 ZnO did not have any anti-tubercular effects on phagocytized H 37 RvMTB. Conversely, ZnO NPs somehow eliminated 18.7 × 10 4  CFU ml -1 of H 37 RvMTB in concentration of ∼ 0.468 ppm. To compare with 40 ppm of rifampicin, ∼ 0.663 ppm of 5 Ag :5 ZnO had the ability to kill of H 37 RvMTB, too. Based on previous research, ZnO NPs had strong anti-tubercular impact against H 37 RvMTB to in-vitro condition, but it was toxic in concentration of ∼ 0.468 ppm to both of THP-1 and normal lung (MRC-5) cell lines. It also seems that 5 Ag :5 ZnO is justified because in concentration of ∼ 0.663 ppm of 5 Ag :5 ZnO , phagocytized H 37 RvMTB into the THP-1 had died without any toxicity effects against THP-1 and also MRC-5 cell lines. It is obvious that the mixture of colloidal silver and zinc oxide NPs with ratio of 5 Ag :5 ZnO would be trustworthy options as anti-tubercular nano-drugs in future researches. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  10. An oil-in-water self-assembly synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic properties of nano Ag@AgCl surface-sensitized K2Ti4O9

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liang, Yinghua; Lin, Shuanglong; Liu, Li; Hu, Jinshan; Cui, Wenquan

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • The plasmatic Ag@AgCl surface-sensitized K 2 Ti 4 O 9 composite photocatalysts. • Ag@AgCl greatly increased visible light absorption for K 2 Ti 4 O 9 . • The photocatalysts exhibited enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation. - Abstract: Nano-sized plasmonic Ag@AgCl surface-sensitized K 2 Ti 4 O 9 composite photocatalysts (hereafter designated as Ag@AgCl/K 2 Ti 4 O 9 ) was synthesized via a facile oil-in-water self-assembly method. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared materials for RhB (Rhodamine B) degradation was examined under visible light irradiation. The results reveal that the size of Ag@AgCl, which evenly dispersed on the surface of K 2 Ti 4 O 9 , distributes about 20–50 nm. The UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra indicate that Ag@AgCl/K 2 Ti 4 O 9 samples have a significantly enhanced optical absorption in 380–700 nm. The photocatalytic activities of the Ag@AgCl/K 2 Ti 4 O 9 samples increase first and then decrease with increasing amount of loading Ag@AgCl and the Ag@AgCl(20 wt.%)/K 2 Ti 4 O 9 sample exhibits the best photocatalytic activity and 94.47% RhB was degraded after irradiation for 2 h. Additionally, studies performed using radical scavengers indicated that O 2 · − and Cl 0 acted as the main reactive species. The electronic interaction was systematically studied and confirmed by the photo-electrochemical measurements

  11. Halloysite Nanotubes Supported Ag and ZnO Nanoparticles with Synergistically Enhanced Antibacterial Activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shu, Zhan; Zhang, Yi; Yang, Qian; Yang, Huaming

    2017-02-01

    Novel antimicrobial nanocomposite incorporating halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and silver (Ag) into zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles is prepared by integrating HNTs and decorating Ag nanoparticles. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with a size of about 100 and 8 nm, respectively, are dispersively anchored onto HNTs. The synergistic effects of ZnO NPs, Ag NPs, and HNTs led to the superior antibacterial activity of the Ag-ZnO/HNTs antibacterial nanocomposites. HNTs facilitated the dispersion and stability of ZnO NPs and brought them in close contact with bacteria, while Ag NPs could promote the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and enhanced the antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs. The close contact with cell membrane enabled the nanoparticles to produce the increased concentration of reactive oxygen species and the metal ions to permeate into the cytoplasm, thus induced quick death of bacteria, indicating that Ag-ZnO/HNTs antibacterial nanocomposite is a promising candidate in the antibacterial fields.

  12. Tri-functional Fe2O3-encased Ag-doped ZnO nanoframework: magnetically retrievable antimicrobial photocatalyst

    Science.gov (United States)

    Karunakaran, Chockalingam; Vinayagamoorthy, Pazhamalai

    2016-11-01

    Fe2O3-encased ZnO nanoframework was obtained by hydrothermal method and was doped with Ag through photoreduction process. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution TEM, selected area electron diffractometry, x-ray diffractometry and Raman spectroscopy were employed for the structural characterization of the synthesized material. While the charge transfer resistance of the prepared nanomaterial is larger than those of Fe2O3 and ZnO the coercivity of the nanocomposite is less than that of hydrothermally obtained Fe2O3 nanostructures. Although Fe2O3/Ag-ZnO exhibits weak visible light absorption its band gap energy does not differ from that of ZnO. The photoluminescence of the fabricated nanoframework is similar to that of ZnO. The radiative recombination of charge carriers is slightly slower in Fe2O3/Ag-ZnO than in ZnO. The synthesized Fe2O3-encased Ag-doped ZnO, under UV A light, exhibits sustainable photocatalytic activity to degrade dye and is magnetically recoverable. Also, the Fe2O3/Ag-ZnO nanocomposite disinfects bacteria effectively in absence of direct illumination.

  13. Building novel Ag/CeO2 heterostructure for enhancing photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Leng, Qiang; Yang, Dezhi; Yang, Qi; Hu, Chenguo; Kang, Yue; Wang, Mingjun; Hashim, Muhammad

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag nanoparticle is designed to building Schottky heterojunction on CeO 2 nanocube. • The photocatalytic activity of Ag/CeO 2 heterostructure is much enhanced. • 95.33% of MB can be effectively degraded within half an hour. • Ag as acceptor of photoelectrons blocks the recombination of electron–hole pairs. - Abstract: Stable and recyclable photocatalysts with high efficiency to degrade organic contamination are important and widely demanded under the threat of the environment pollution. Ag/CeO 2 heterostructure is designed as a photocatalyst to degrade organic dye under the simulated sunlight. The catalytic activity of CeO 2 nanocubes (NCs) to degrade methylene blue (MB) is obviously enhanced when Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are deposited on the surface of them. The weight ratio of Ag and CeO 2 in forming high efficiency catalyst, the amount of Ag/CeO 2 catalyst used in degradation process, and the dye concentration and pH value of the initial MB solution are examined systematically. 95.33% of MB can be effectively degraded within half an hour when 50 mg of Ag/CeO 2 catalyst in an optimal weight ratio of 1:3, is added to the 100 mL of MB solution (c 0 = 1 × 10 −5 mol L −1 , pH 6.2). The mechanism of the enhanced catalytic activity of Ag/CeO 2 heterostructure is discussed. The photocatalytic degradation rate is found to obey pseudo-first-order kinetics equations according to Langmuir–Hinshelwood model. The intermediate products in different stages during the degradation of MB are analyzed

  14. Evolution of local structure in Ag2O-TeO2 glasses with addition of Ag2O analyzed by pulsed neutron diffraction and Raman spectroscopy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Iwadate, Yasuhiko; Suzuki, Mineta; Hattori, Takeo; Fukushima, Kazuko; Nishiyama, Shin; Misawa, Masakatsu; Fukunaga, Toshiharu; Itoh, Keiji

    2005-01-01

    The local structure of Ag 2 O-TeO 2 glasses was studied by time-of-flight pulsed neutron diffraction (TOF-PND) and Raman spectroscopy. The results of Raman spectroscopy indicated that TeO 4 trigonal bipyramidal units (tbp) were converted to TeO 3 trigonal pyramidal units (tp) by addition of Ag 2 O to TeO 2 . Furthermore in PND, the structural parameters for each atomic pair were optimized in the Q-space, and the distances of the near neighbor Te-O correlations forming tbp units and tp units in the network were estimated with some accuracy

  15. Photoluminescence and photocatalytic activities of Ag/ZnO metal-semiconductor heterostructure

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sarma, Bikash; Deb, Sujit Kumar; Sarma, Bimal K.

    2016-01-01

    Present article focuses on the photocatalytic activities of ZnO nanorods and Ag/ZnO heterostructure deposited on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. ZnO nanorods are synthesized by thermal decomposition technique and Ag nanoparticles deposition is done by photo-deposition technique using UV light. X-ray diffraction studies reveal that the ZnO nanorods are of hexagonal wurtzite structure. Further, as-prepared samples are characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The surface plasmon resonance response of Ag/ZnO is found at 420 nm. The photocatalytic activities of the samples are evaluated by photocatalytic decolorization of methyl orange (MO) dye with UV irradiation. The degradation rate of MO increases with increase in irradiation time. The degradation of MO follows the first order kinetics. The photocatalytic activity of Ag/ZnO heterostructure is found to be more than that of ZnO nanorods. The PL intensity of ZnO nanorods is stronger than that of the Ag/ZnO heterostructure. The strong PL intensity indicates high recombination rate of photoinduced charge carriers which lowers the photocatalytic activity of ZnO nanorods. The charge carrier recombination is effectively suppressed by introducing Ag nanoparticles on the surface of the ZnO nanorods. This study demonstrates a strong relationship between PL intensity and photocatalytic activity. (paper)

  16. Crystal structure and thermal stability of AgIn(MoO4)2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Klevtsov, P.V.; Solodovnikov, S.F.; Perepelitsa, A.P.; Klevtsova, R.F.

    1984-01-01

    Tetragonal crystals of double molybdate AgIn(MoO 4 ) 2 are prepared bi crystallization from solution in Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 melt (a=4.998, c=36.725 A, space group I4 1 , Z=6). Its crystal structure is determined (autodaffractometer ''Syntex P2 1 '', MoKsub(α)-radiation, 876 reflections, R=0.054) in which along with Mo-tetrahedrons Mo-octahedrons are present. By mutual edges latter are united into bands forming fragments of wolframite structure alonside with (In, Ag) octahedrons. In the direction of c axis wolframite fragments alternate with scheelite fragments consisting of Mo-tetrahedrons and Ag-octavertices. The crystallochemical formula of the compound is Ag(Insub(0.75)Agsub(0.25))sub(2)Mosub(2)Osub(8) [MoO 4 ]. At a temperature of about 600 deq C AgIn-molybdate transforms into modification with NaIn(MoO 4 ) 2 structure NaIn(MoO 4 ) 2 and melts at 650 deg C decomposing into In 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 solid phase and Ag 2 MoO 4 melt

  17. 21 CFR 1140.32 - Format and content requirements for labeling and advertising.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Format and content requirements for labeling and advertising. 1140.32 Section 1140.32 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND... smokeless tobacco shall use only black text on a white background. This section does not apply to...

  18. Effect of heavy Ag doping on the physical properties of ZnO

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hou, Qingyu; Zhao, Chunwang; Jia, Xiaofang; Xu, Zhenchao

    2018-04-01

    The band structure, density of state and absorption spectrum of Zn1‑xAgxO (x = 0.02778, 0.04167) were calculated. Results indicated that a higher doping content of Ag led to a higher total energy, lower stability, higher formation energy, narrower bandgap, more significant red shift of the absorption spectrum, higher relative concentration of free hole, smaller hole effective mass, lower mobility and better conductivity. Furthermore, four types of model with the same doping content of double Ag-doped Zn1‑xAgxO (x = 0.125) but different manners of doping were established. Two types of models with different doping contents of double Ag-doped Zn1‑xAgxO (x = 0.0626, 0.0833) but the same manner of doping, were also established. Under the same doping content and different ordering occupations in Ag double doping, the doped system almost caused magnetic quenching upon the nearest neighbor -Ag-O-Ag- bonding at the direction partial to the a- or b-axis. Upon the next-nearest neighbor of -Ag-O-Zn-O-Ag- bonding at the direction partial to the c-axis, the total magnetic moment of the doped system increased, and the doped system reached a Curie temperature above the room-temperature. All these results indicated that the magnetic moments of Ag double-doped ZnO systems decreased with increased Ag doping content. Within the range of the mole number of the doping content of 0.02778-0.04167, a greater Ag doping content led to a narrower bandgap of the doped system and a more significant red shift in the absorption spectrum. The absorption spectrum of the doped ZnO system with interstitial Ag also shows a red shift.

  19. Photocatalytic properties of nanocrystalline TiO2 thin film with Ag additions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chang, C.-C.; Lin, C.-K.; Chan, C.-C.; Hsu, C.-S.; Chen, C.-Y.

    2006-01-01

    In the present study, nanocrystalline TiO 2 /Ag composite thin films were prepared by a sol-gel spin coating technique. While, by introducing polystyrene (PS) microspheres, porous TiO 2 /Ag films were obtained after calcining at a temperature of 500 o C. The as-prepared TiO 2 and TiO 2 /Ag thin films were characterized by X-ray diffractometry, and scanning electron microscopy to reveal the structural and morphological differences. In addition, the photocatalytic properties of these films were investigated by degrading methylene blue under UV irradiation. After 500 o C calcination, the microstructure of PS-TiO 2 film without Ag addition exhibited a sponge-like microstructure while significant sintering effect was noticed with Ag additions and the films exhibited a porous microstructure. Meanwhile, coalescence of nanocrystalline anatase-phase TiO 2 can be observed with respect to the sharpening of XRD diffraction peaks. The photodegradation of porous TiO 2 doped with 1 mol% Ag exhibited the best photocatalytic efficiency where 72% methylene blue can be decomposed after UV exposure for 12 h

  20. Enhanced photocatalytic performances and magnetic recovery capacity of visible-light-driven Z-scheme ZnFe2O4/AgBr/Ag photocatalyst

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Jie; Cheng, Yahui; Wang, Tianzhao; Feng, Deqiang; Zheng, Lingcheng; Shao, Dawei; Wang, Weichao; Wang, Weihua; Lu, Feng; Dong, Hong; Zheng, Rongkun; Liu, Hui

    2018-05-01

    High efficiency, high stability and easy recovery are three key factors for practical photocatalysts. Z-scheme heterostructure is one of the most promising photocatalytic systems to meet all above requirements. However, efficient Z-scheme photocatalysts which could absorb visible light are still few and difficult to implement at present. In this work, the composite photocatalysts ZnFe2O4/AgBr/Ag were prepared through a two-step method. A ∼92% photodegradation rate on methyl orange was observed within 30 min under visible light, which is much better than that of individual ZnFe2O4 or AgBr/Ag. The stability was also greatly improved compared with AgBr/Ag. The increased performance is resulted from the suitable band alignment of ZnFe2O4 and AgBr, and it is defined as Z-scheme mechanism which was demonstrated by detecting active species and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Besides, ZnFe2O4/AgBr/Ag is ferromagnetic and can be recycled by magnet. These results show that ZnFe2O4/AgBr/Ag is a potential magnetically recyclable photocatalyst which can be driven by visible light.

  1. Halloysite Nanotubes Supported Ag and ZnO Nanoparticles with Synergistically Enhanced Antibacterial Activity

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Zhan Shu

    2017-02-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Novel antimicrobial nanocomposite incorporating halloysite nanotubes (HNTs and silver (Ag into zinc oxide (ZnO nanoparticles is prepared by integrating HNTs and decorating Ag nanoparticles. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs and Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs with a size of about 100 and 8 nm, respectively, are dispersively anchored onto HNTs. The synergistic effects of ZnO NPs, Ag NPs, and HNTs led to the superior antibacterial activity of the Ag-ZnO/HNTs antibacterial nanocomposites. HNTs facilitated the dispersion and stability of ZnO NPs and brought them in close contact with bacteria, while Ag NPs could promote the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and enhanced the antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs. The close contact with cell membrane enabled the nanoparticles to produce the increased concentration of reactive oxygen species and the metal ions to permeate into the cytoplasm, thus induced quick death of bacteria, indicating that Ag-ZnO/HNTs antibacterial nanocomposite is a promising candidate in the antibacterial fields.

  2. Fabrication, characterization and photocatalytic properties of Ag nanoparticles modified TiO2 NTs

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Qingyao; Yang Xiuchun; Liu Dan; Zhao Jianfu

    2012-01-01

    Graphical abstract: The TiO 2 NTs were first treated with bi-functional mercaptoacetic acid linkers (HOOC–R–S). The –OH group on the surface of TiO 2 NT provides a strong affinity with the carboxylate group in the linker molecules. The thiol functional group in the linker molecules facilitates the binding with Ag from AgNO 3 solution. After Ag + ions were reduced by NaBH 4 , Ag nanoparticles formed by nucleation and growth. Highlights: ► Ag nanoparticles with an average diameter of 9.2 nm were filled in the TiO 2 nanotubes by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. ► Bi-functional mercaptoacetic acid linkers were used to bind TiO 2 nanotubes with Ag nanoparticles. ► Ag nanoparticles modification of TiO 2 NTs largely enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange under ultraviolet light irradiation. - Abstract: Ordered anatase TiO 2 nanotubes (TiO 2 NTs) on Ti substrate were synthesized by electrochemical anodization and subsequently vapor-thermal treatment. Ag nanoparticles were decorated on TiO 2 NTs by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used for the characterization of surface morphology, phase composition, and microstructure of the original TiO 2 NTs, the vapor-thermally treated TiO 2 NTs and the Ag nanoparticles decorated TiO 2 NTs. The results indicate that vapor-thermal treatment favors to the transformation of amorphous TiO 2 into anatase phase. Increasing the SILAR cycle times favors to increase the loaded amounts of Ag nanoparticles in TiO 2 NTs. Ag nanoparticles are uniformly distributed in the TiO 2 NTs, and the SILAR process does not damage the ordered tubular structure. A possible formation mechanism of Ag/TiO 2 NTs has also been proposed. The

  3. Effects of coating process on the characteristics of Ag-SnO2 contact materials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, X.M.; Wu, S.L.; Chu, Paul K.; Chung, C.Y.; Zheng, J.; Li, S.L.

    2006-01-01

    Good wettability between the SnO 2 and silver matrix can improve the electrical contact performance of Ag-SnO 2 materials. In this work, Ag was deposited onto the surface of Ti-doped SnO 2 particles using chemical plating to enhance the wettability. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the Ag-coated SnO 2 particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), conductivity tests, differential thermal analysis (DTA), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were performed on the Ag-SnO 2 materials. Our results reveal that the chemical plating process can enhance the wettability between the Ti-doped SnO 2 particles and Ag matrix, and the Ag-coated SnO 2 particles are uniformly distributed in the Ag matrix. Both the thermal and electrical conductivity of the Ag-SnO 2 materials are significantly improved

  4. A novel metal-to-metal bonding process through in-situ formation of Ag nanoparticles using Ag2O microparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hirose, Akio; Tatsumi, Hiroaki; Takeda, Naoya; Akada, Yusuke; Ogura, Tomo; Ide, Eiichi; Morita, Toshiaki

    2009-01-01

    The metal-to-metal bonding has been successfully achieved via the bonding process using Ag metallo-organic nanoparticles at a bonding temperature of around 300-, which can be alternative to the current microsoldering in electronics assembly using high-temperature solders. However, further reduction of bonding temperature and/or bonding pressure is needed. In the present research, a novel bonding process through in-situ formation of Ag nanoparticles instead of the filler material of the Ag metallo-organic nanoparticles has been developed. The Ag nanoparticles can form by the reduction of Ag 2 O particles. In this study, the Ag 2 O particles were mixed with triethylene glycol as a reducing agent to form a paste for bonding. The Au coated cylindrical specimens were bonded using the paste. The Ag nanoparticles formed at around 130 to 160 through the reduction process of Ag2O particles with triethylene glycol. The Ag nanoparticles were immediately sintered each other due to a great surface energy per volume. A transmission electron microscope observation revealed that the sintered Ag metallurgically bonded to the Au substrate at around 160 and a dense Ag layer formed after further heating. The tensile strength of the joint bonded at 250 under a bonding pressure of 5MPa was around 60MPa

  5. Two different mechanisms on UV emission enhancement in Ag-doped ZnO thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, Linhua; Zheng, Gaige; Zhao, Lilong; Pei, Shixin

    2015-01-01

    Ag-doped ZnO thin films were prepared by a sol–gel method. The structural, morphological and optical properties of the samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis and photoluminescence spectra. The results show that the Ag in the ZnO thin films annealed at 500 °C for 1 h substitutes for Zn and exists in the form of Ag + ion (Ag Zn ) while the Ag in the ZnO thin films without a post-annealing mainly exists in the form of simple substance (Ag 0 ). The incorporation of Ag indeed can improve the ultraviolet emission of ZnO thin films and suppress the visible emissions at the same time. However, the mechanisms on the ultraviolet emission enhancement in the annealed and unannealed Ag-doped ZnO thin films are very different. As for the post-annealed Ag-doped ZnO thin films, the UV emission enhancement maybe mainly results from more electron–hole pairs (excitons) due to Ag-doping while for the unannealed Ag-doped ZnO thin films; the UV emission enhancement is attributed to the resonant coupling between exciton emission in ZnO and localized surface plasmon in Ag nanoparticles. - Highlights: • Ag-doped ZnO thin films have been prepared by the sol–gel method. • Ag-doping can enhance ultraviolet emission of ZnO thin films and depress the visible emissions at the same time. • There are two different mechanisms on UV emission enhancement in Ag-doped ZnO thin films. • The UV emission enhancement from the resonant coupling between excitonic emissions and localized surface plasmon in Ag nanoparticle is very attractive

  6. Structure and properties of nanostructured ZnO arrays and ZnO/Ag nanocomposites fabricated by pulsed electrodeposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kopach, V. R.; Klepikova, K. S.; Klochko, N. P., E-mail: klochko-np@mail.ru; Khrypunov, G. S.; Korsun, V. E.; Lyubov, V. M.; Kirichenko, M. V.; Kopach, A. V. [National Technical University “Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute” (Ukraine)

    2017-03-15

    We investigate the structure, surface morphology, and optical properties of nanostructured ZnO arrays fabricated by pulsed electrodeposition, Ag nanoparticles precipitated from colloidal solutions, and a ZnO/Ag nanocomposite based on them. The electronic and electrical parameters of the ZnO arrays and ZnO/Ag nanocomposites are analyzed by studying the I–V and C–V characteristics. Optimal modes for fabricating the ZnO/Ag heterostructures with the high stability and sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation as promising materials for use in photodetectors, gas sensors, and photocatalysts are determined.

  7. Ag/PEPC/NiPc/ZnO/Ag thin film capacitive and resistive humidity sensors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Karimov, Kh. S.; Saleem, M.; Murtaza, Imran; Farooq, M.; Cheong, Kuan Yew; Noor, Ahmad Fauzi Mohd

    2010-01-01

    A thin film of blended poly-N-epoxypropylcarbazole (PEPC) (25 wt.%), nickel phthalocyanine (NiPc) (50 wt.%) and ZnO nano-powder (25 wt.%) in benzene (5 wt.%) was spin-coated on a glass substrate with silver electrodes to produce a surface-type Ag/PEPC/NiPc/ZnO/Ag capacitive and resistive sensor. Sensors with two different PEPC/NiPc/ZnO film thicknesses (330 and 400 nm) were fabricated and compared. The effects of humidity on capacitance and resistance of the Ag/PEPC/NiPc/ZnO/Ag sensors were investigated at two frequencies of the applied voltage: 120 Hz and 1 kHz. It was observed that at 120 Hz under humidity of up to 95% RH the capacitance of the sensors increased by 540 times and resistance decreased by 450 times with respect to humidity conditions of 50% RH. It was found that the sensor with a thinner semiconducting film (330 nm) was more sensitive than the sensor with a thicker film (400 nm). The sensitivity was improved when the sensor was used at a lower frequency as compared with a high frequency. It is assumed that the humidity response of the sensors is associated with absorption of water vapors and doping of water molecules in the semiconductor blend layer. This had been proven by simulation of the capacitance-humidity relationship. (semiconductor devices)

  8. Effects of Ag loading on structural and photocatalytic properties of flower-like ZnO microspheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Xiaodong, E-mail: fatzhxd@126.com [Environment and Low-Carbon Research Center, School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093 (China); Wang, Yuxin, E-mail: wyx790914@aliyun.com [Institute of Applied Biotechnology, Taizhou Vocation & Technical College, Taizhou Zhejiang 318000 (China); Hou, Fulin; Li, Hongxin; Yang, Yang [Environment and Low-Carbon Research Center, School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093 (China); Zhang, Xinxin [Institute of Applied Biotechnology, Taizhou Vocation & Technical College, Taizhou Zhejiang 318000 (China); Yang, Yiqiong; Wang, Yin [Environment and Low-Carbon Research Center, School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093 (China)

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Unique flower-like Ag/ZnO spheres were synthesized by simple hydrothermal method. • Depositing with moderate Ag improved visible light response and activity. • Photoexcited electrons transfer from Ag to ZnO due to surface plasmon resonance. • Ag/ZnO was stable even after recycling many times. - Abstract: Flower-like Ag/ZnO samples were successfully fabricated via a simple and cost efficient method without surfactants. The morphologies, structural and optical properties of Ag/ZnO samples with various Ag content were investigated. The samples were systematically characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), N{sub 2} adsorption-desorption isotherm, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). It was found that ZnO was wurtzite phase and metallic Ag particles were wrapped by ZnO nanosheets. Compared with pure metallic Ag, the binding energy of Ag 3d for the Ag/ZnO samples distinctly shifted to the lower binding energy, which was attributed to the interaction between ZnO and Ag. With the increase of Ag content, surface plasmon absorption band of Ag/ZnO samples was obviously widened; meanwhile, PL intensity was decreased. The photocatalytic performance of Ag/ZnO samples were carried out by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) solution under visible light irradiation. The deposition of a certain amount of Ag was beneficial to the improvement of photocatalytic activity. The degradation rate of the Ag/ZnO sample with Ag/Zn ratio 1/20 was greater than fourfold times faster than that of ZnO. It was suggested that photoexcited electrons transferred from Ag to ZnO due to surface plasmon resonance (SPR), which could effectively reduce the recombination of electron–hole pairs and prolong lifetime of the electron–holes pairs, promoting the degradation efficiency. The deposition of a large amount of Ag

  9. Enhanced catalyst activity by decorating of Au on Ag@Cu2O nanoshell

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Lei; Liu, Maomao; Zhao, Yue; Kou, Qiangwei; Wang, Yaxin; Liu, Yang; Zhang, Yongjun; Yang, Jinghai; Jung, Young Mee

    2018-03-01

    We successfully synthesized Au-decorated Ag@Cu2O heterostructures via a simple galvanic replacement method. As the Au precursor concentration increased, the density of the Au nanoparticles (NPs) on the Ag@Cu2O surface increased, which changed the catalytic activity of the Ag@Cu2O-Au structure. The combination of Au, Ag, and Cu2O exhibited excellent catalytic properties, which can further effect on the catalyst activity of the Ag@Cu2O-Au structure. In addition, the proposed Ag@Cu2O-Au nanocomposite was used to transform the organic, toxic pollutant, 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), into its nontoxic and medicinally important amino derivative via a catalytic reduction to optimize the material performance. The proposed Au-decorated Ag@Cu2O exhibited excellent catalytic activity, and the catalytic reduction time greatly decreased (5 min). Thus, three novel properties of Ag@Cu2O-Au, i.e., charge redistribution and transfer, adsorption, and catalytic reduction of organic pollutants, were ascertained for water remediation. The proposed catalytic properties have potential applications for photocatalysis and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR)- and peroxidase-like catalysis.

  10. The leader peptide of mutacin 1140 has distinct structural components compared to related class I lantibiotics.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Escano, Jerome; Stauffer, Byron; Brennan, Jacob; Bullock, Monica; Smith, Leif

    2014-12-01

    Lantibiotics are ribosomally synthesized peptide antibiotics composed of an N-terminal leader peptide that promotes the core peptide's interaction with the post translational modification (PTM) enzymes. Following PTMs, mutacin 1140 is transported out of the cell and the leader peptide is cleaved to yield the antibacterial peptide. Mutacin 1140 leader peptide is structurally unique compared to other class I lantibiotic leader peptides. Herein, we further our understanding of the structural differences of mutacin 1140 leader peptide with regard to other class I leader peptides. We have determined that the length of the leader peptide is important for the biosynthesis of mutacin 1140. We have also determined that mutacin 1140 leader peptide contains a novel four amino acid motif compared to related lantibiotics. PTM enzyme recognition of the leader peptide appears to be evolutionarily distinct from related class I lantibiotics. Our study on mutacin 1140 leader peptide provides a basis for future studies aimed at understanding its interaction with the PTM enzymes. © 2014 The Authors. MicrobiologyOpen published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  11. Optical and structural properties of TiO2/Ti/Ag/TiO2 and TiO2/ITO/Ag/ITO/TiO2 metal-dielectric multilayers by RF magnetron sputtering for display application

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Jang-Hoon; Lee, Seung-Hyu; Hwangbo, Chang-Kwon; Lee, Kwang-Su

    2004-01-01

    Electromagnetic-interference (EMI) shielding and near-infrared (NIR) cutoff filters for plasma display panels, based on fundamental structures (ITO/Ag/ITO), (TiO 2 /Ti/Ag/TiO 2 ) and (TiO 2 /ITO/Ag/ITO/TiO 2 ), were designed and prepared by RF-magnetron sputtering. The optical, structural and electrical properties of the filters were investigated by using spectrophotometry, Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and four-point-probe measurements. The results show that ITO films as the barriers and base layers lead to higher transmittance in the visible spectrum and smoother surface roughness than Ti metal barriers, while maintaining high NIR cutoff characteristics and chemical stability, which may be attributed to the lower absorption in the interfacial layers and better protection of the Ag layers by the ITO layers.

  12. Synthesis and photoactivity of the highly efficient Ag species/TiO2 nanoflakes photocatalysts

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu Yong; Hu Juncheng; Li Jinlin

    2011-01-01

    Research highlights: → Highly efficient Ag species-TiO 2 nanoflakes catalyst was prepared. → The variety and relative amount of Ag species in TiO 2 can be well tuned. → The enhanced photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the Ag species. - Abstract: Ag species/TiO 2 nanoflakes photocatalysts with different relative contents (Ag + , Ag 2+ , Ag 0 ) have been successfully synthesized by a simple template-free synthetic strategy. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra indicated that the dopant ions (Ag + or Ag 2+ ) were partly incorporated into the titanium dioxide nanoflakes. Meanwhile, part of the silver ions migrated to the surface after the subsequent calcination and aggregated into ultra-small metallic Ag nanoclusters (NCs) (1-2 nm), which are well dispersed on the surface of TiO 2 nanoflakes. The photocatalytic activities of the Ag species/TiO 2 materials obtained were evaluated by testing the photodegradation of the azo dye reactive brilliant X-3B (X-3B) under near UV irradiation. Interestingly, it was found that the maximum photocatalytic efficiency was observed when Ag species coexisted in three valence states (Ag + , Ag 2+ , Ag 0 NCs), which was higher than that of Degussa P25. The high photocatalytic activity of the Ag species/TiO 2 can be attributed to the synergy effect of the three Ag species.

  13. Photodegradation properties and optics of Ag/TiO2 films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tirado G, S.; Valenzuela Z, M. A.

    2016-10-01

    In the thin semiconductor films of Ag/TiO 2 the topographic properties were recorded by atomic force microscopy and the main parameters of roughness were determined; the optical properties were also recorded when determining their transmittance degree, their refractive indexes, their thickness and the bandwidth of the semiconductor Eg, both for pure TiO 2 films and the modified Ag/TiO 2 films with various layers of the Ag catalyst. The Ag/TiO 2 films that were grown by sol-gel and repeated immersion, chemical technique that has been used in the development of thin film technology, were carried out in photo catalysis, when are used in photo degradation of methyl orange at an aqueous concentration of 14 ppm, once they are characterized with several techniques required to be able to explain the possible photo catalytic reactions at the solid-aqueous interface, when irradiated with UV; with the possible application in water treatment. The photoluminescence spectra of the prepared Ag/TiO 2 samples are reported, which resulted in a green emission, characteristic of the visible, in addition to emissions in the UV range. (Author)

  14. Vancomycin-modified Fe3O4@SiO2@Ag microflowers as effective antimicrobial agents

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wang C

    2017-04-01

    Full Text Available Chongwen Wang,1,2,* Kehan Zhang,2,* Zhe Zhou,2,* Qingjun Li,2 Liting Shao,2 Rong Zhang Hao,3 Rui Xiao,2 Shengqi Wang1,2 1College of Life Sciences & Bio-Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, 2Beijing Key Laboratory of New Molecular Diagnosis Technologies for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 3Institute for Disease Control and Prevention, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China *These authors contributed equally to this work Abstract: Nanomaterials combined with antibiotics exhibit synergistic effects and have gained increasing interest as promising antimicrobial agents. In this study, vancomycin-modified magnetic-based silver microflowers (Van/Fe3O4@SiO2@Ag microflowers were rationally designed and prepared to achieve strong bactericidal ability, a wide antimicrobial spectrum, and good recyclability. High-performance Fe3O4@SiO2@Ag microflowers served as a multifunction-supporting matrix and exhibited sufficient magnetic response property due to their 200 nm Fe3O4 core. The microflowers also possessed a highly branched flower-like Ag shell that provided a large surface area for effective Ag ion release and bacterial contact. The modified-vancomycin layer was effectively bound to the cell wall of bacteria to increase the permeability of the cell membrane and facilitate the entry of the Ag ions into the bacterium, resulting in cell death. As such, the fabricated Van/Fe3O4@SiO2@Ag microflowers were predicted to be an effective and environment-friendly antibacterial agent. This hypothesis was verified through sterilization of Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 10 and 20 µg mL-1, respectively. The microflowers also showed enhanced effect compared with bare Fe3O4@SiO2@Ag microflowers and free-form vancomycin, confirming the synergistic effects of the combination of the

  15. The Optical and Electrical Properties of ZnO/Ag/ZnO Films on Flexible Substrate

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Xiaojing; Zhang, Dongyan; Wang, Pangpang; Murakami, Ri-Ichi; Ding, Bingjun; Song, Xiaoping

    The deposition of ZnO/Ag/ZnO film on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate was fabricated by DC magnetron sputtering method. The thicknesses of ZnO layers were 30 nm and Ag films' thicknesses were changed from 1 nm to 6 nm by controlled the sputtering time. This kind of film can be used as transparent conductive oxide (TCO) materials. The electrical and optical properties of composite layers were determined by Ag films. The optimum sputtering time of Ag thin films was found to be 20 s for the high optical transmittance with good electrical conductivity. The ZnO/Ag(20 s)/ZnO layer, which has high optical transmittance of 73% at 550 nm, shows sheet resistance as low as 6.7 ohm/sq. These multilayer transparent films had low electrical resistance as the widely used transparent conductive oxide electrodes. SEM, XRD, the UV-Vis-NIR and Hall Effect measurement system were used to characterize properties of fabricated films. The reasons for the change of transmittance and resistance will also be interpreted.

  16. Optical and photoelectrochemical studies on Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} double-layer thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Chuan, E-mail: cli10@yahoo.com [Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan 11221 (China); Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taoyuan, Taiwan 32001 (China); Hsieh, J.H. [Department of Materials Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, Taishan, Taipei, Taiwan 24301 (China); Cheng, J.C. [Department of Electronic Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan 10608 (China); Huang, C.C. [Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan 11221 (China)

    2014-11-03

    When two different oxides films stacked together, if the absorption (upper) layer has both its conduction and valence bands more negatively lower than that of the layer underneath, then the photo-excited electrons can be forwarded to the underneath layer to become an effect of energy storage. Recent studies discovered that the double-layers of Cu{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} films possess such capacity. In order to investigate this specific phenomenon, we use a DC magnetron reactive sputtering to deposit a double-layer of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} films on glass substrate. The film thicknesses of the double-layer are 300 nm and 200 nm respectively. X-Ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and UV–VIS–NIR photospectrometer and photoluminance tests were used to study the structure, morphology, optical absorption and band gaps of the stacked films. From XRD and SEM, we can confirm the microstructures of each layer. The UV–VIS–NIR spectrum revealed that the optical absorption of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} fell in between the single film of Ag{sub 2}O and TiO{sub 2}. Further, two band gaps were estimated for Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} films based on the Beer-Lambert law and Tauc plot. Photoluminance and photoelectrochemical tests indicated that delayed emission by electron-hole recombination and photoelectrical current was effectively support the mechanism of electrons transfer from Ag{sub 2}O to TiO{sub 2} at Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} interface in the double-layer films. - Highlights: • A double-layer of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} films was deposited on glass substrate by sputtering. • XRD confirms the nanocrystalline structures of the stack deposited films. • UV–VIS–NIR spectroscopy shows the enhanced of optical absorption in Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2}. • Photoluminance and photoelectrochemical tests show electron-hole separation effect.

  17. Enhanced Raman scattering and nonlinear conductivity in Ag-doped hollow ZnO microspheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tringe, Joseph W.; Levie, Harold W.; McCall, Scott K.; Teslich, Nick E.; Wall, Mark A.; Orme, Christine A.; Matthews, Manyalibo J. [Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA (United States)

    2012-10-15

    Hollow spherical ZnO particles doped with Ag were synthesized with a two-step oxidation and sublimation furnace annealing process. Ag nanoparticle precipitates, as observed by transmission electron microscopy, were present in the polycrystalline ZnO matrix at Ag concentrations below 0.02 mol%, significantly below the 0.8 mol% solubility limit for Ag in ZnO. Enhanced Raman scattering of ZnO phonon modes is observed, increasing with Ag nanoparticle concentration. A further enhancement in Raman scattering due to resonance effects was observed for LO phonons excited by 2.33-eV photons as compared with Raman scattering under 1.96-eV excitation. Room-temperature photoluminescence spectra showed both a near-band-edge emission due to free exciton transitions and a mid-gap transition due to the presence of singly ionized oxygen vacancies. ZnO:Ag particles were measured electrically in a packed column and in monolithic form, and in both cases displayed nonlinear current-voltage characteristics similar to those previously observed in sintered ZnO:Ag monoliths where Ag-enhanced disorder at grain boundaries is thought to control current transport. We demonstrate therefore that Ag simultaneously modifies the electrical and optical properties of ZnO particles through the introduction of vacancies and other defects. (orig.)

  18. AgCuO2: Preparationand Electrochemical Behaviors in Alkaline Electrolytes%AgCuO2:制备及其在碱性溶液中的电化学行为

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    张婷锦; 张校刚; 胡风平

    2005-01-01

    The silver cuprate AgCuO2 powder was prepared by a chemical co-precipitation method and characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM techniques. The electrochemical behaviors of AgCuO2 electrodes and AgCuO2 modified by sulfur were studied by means of galvanostatic discharge and line sweep voltammetry experiments. The resuits indicated that the specific capacity of AgCuO2 could reach 422.32 mAh·g-1 at middle discharge rate and the addition of sulfur could significantly improve the discharge performance of AgCuO2. The mechanism for this modified effect was also discussed.

  19. Photocatalytic degradation of textile dye direct orange 26 by using CoFe2O4/Ag2O

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Azhdari, F.; Mehdipour Ghazi, M.

    2016-01-01

    The magnetic and recyclable nanoparticles of CoFe 2 O 4 were synthesized by a reverse co-precipitation process. Sonication was used to couple the CoFe 2 O 4 surface with Ag 2 O. The characteristics and optical properties of the catalyst were studied by powder X-ray diffraction, UV–visible reflectance spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Pure CoFe 2 O 4 and CoFe 2 O 4 /Ag 2 O were utilized to determine the visible light photo catalytic degradation of Direct Orange 26. The effects of p H, the initial concentration of catalyst and initial dye concentration on the photo catalytic process were investigated. It was found that the presence of Ag 2 O remarkably improved the photo catalytic adsorption capacity and degradation efficiency of CoFe 2 O 4 /Ag 2 O when compared with the pure CoFe 2 O 4 . Moreover, due to the magnetic behavior of CoFe 2 O 4 , these coupled nanoparticles can be easily separated from the aqueous solution by applying an external magnetic field. The prepared Ag 2 O-modified CoFe 2 O 4 exhibited much higher (about 40%) photo catalytic activity than the unmodified one. The results showed that the loading of the Ag 2 O significantly improved the photo catalytic performance of the CoFe 2 O 4 in which the Ag 2 O acted as a charge carrier to capture the delocalized electrons.

  20. Highly flexible, conductive and transparent MoO3/Ag/MoO3 multilayer electrode for organic photovoltaic cells

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Abachi, T.; Cattin, L.; Louarn, G.; Lare, Y.; Bou, A.; Makha, M.; Torchio, P.

    2013-01-01

    MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 (MAM) multilayer structures were deposited by vacuum evaporation on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. We demonstrate that, as in the case of glass substrate, the sheet resistance of such structures depends significantly on the Ag film deposition rate. When it is deposited between 0.2 and 0.4 nm/s, an Ag thickness of 11 nm allows achieving sheet resistance of 13 Ω/sq and an averaged transmission of 74%. A study of the influence of the PET substrate on the optimum MoO 3 thicknesses was done. A good qualitative agreement between the theoretical calculations of the variation of the optical transmittance of the MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 structures is obtained. The optimum MAM structures MoO 3 (17.5 nm)/Ag (11 nm)/MoO 3 (35 nm) has a factor of merit F M = 4.21 10 −3 (Ω/sq) −1 . Proven by the scotch test the MAM structures exhibit a good adhesion to the PET substrates. The MAM structures were also submitted to bending tests. For outer bending, the samples exhibit no variation of their resistance value, while for inner bending there is a small increase of the resistance of the MAM structures. However this increasing is smaller than that exhibited by Indium Tin Oxide. When the PET/MAM structures are used as anode in organic photovoltaic cells, it is shown that the need to use thicker Ag films inside the multilayer and to cover the MAM with Au to obtain promising Current density vs Voltage characteristics is due to the heating of the PET substrate during the deposition process. - Highlights: • MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 structures deposited on polyethylene terephthalate substrate. • MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 structures deposited by vacuum evaporation. • The Ag deposition rate influences the properties of the structures. • The MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 optimum structure has a factor of merit F M = 4.21 10 −3 (Ω/sq) −1 . • The MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 structures exhibit a high flexibility

  1. Building novel Ag/CeO{sub 2} heterostructure for enhancing photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Leng, Qiang; Yang, Dezhi; Yang, Qi [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Hu, Chenguo, E-mail: hucg@cqu.edu.cn [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Kang, Yue; Wang, Mingjun [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Hashim, Muhammad [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Applied Physics Department, Federal Urdu University of Arts Science and Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan)

    2015-05-15

    Highlights: • Ag nanoparticle is designed to building Schottky heterojunction on CeO{sub 2} nanocube. • The photocatalytic activity of Ag/CeO{sub 2} heterostructure is much enhanced. • 95.33% of MB can be effectively degraded within half an hour. • Ag as acceptor of photoelectrons blocks the recombination of electron–hole pairs. - Abstract: Stable and recyclable photocatalysts with high efficiency to degrade organic contamination are important and widely demanded under the threat of the environment pollution. Ag/CeO{sub 2} heterostructure is designed as a photocatalyst to degrade organic dye under the simulated sunlight. The catalytic activity of CeO{sub 2} nanocubes (NCs) to degrade methylene blue (MB) is obviously enhanced when Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are deposited on the surface of them. The weight ratio of Ag and CeO{sub 2} in forming high efficiency catalyst, the amount of Ag/CeO{sub 2} catalyst used in degradation process, and the dye concentration and pH value of the initial MB solution are examined systematically. 95.33% of MB can be effectively degraded within half an hour when 50 mg of Ag/CeO{sub 2} catalyst in an optimal weight ratio of 1:3, is added to the 100 mL of MB solution (c{sub 0} = 1 × 10{sup −5} mol L{sup −1}, pH 6.2). The mechanism of the enhanced catalytic activity of Ag/CeO{sub 2} heterostructure is discussed. The photocatalytic degradation rate is found to obey pseudo-first-order kinetics equations according to Langmuir–Hinshelwood model. The intermediate products in different stages during the degradation of MB are analyzed.

  2. CuO and Ag2O effect on electrical properties of barium vanadate glasses

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bogomolova, L.D.; Glasova, M.N.; Kalygina, V.M.; Spasibkina, S.N.; Khorikov, A.A.

    1987-01-01

    Effect of CuO on barium vanadate glass (BVG) conductivity on direct and alternating currents in the frequency range (10 2 -10 4 )Hz has been studied. Effect of Ag 2 O has been also studied for comparison, as Ag and Cu have idendical structure of external electron shells (d 10 , S 1 ). CuO introduction to binary barium vanadate glasses as a modificator results in the conductivity improvement on direct and alternating currents conditioned with reducing activation energy of small radius polaron jump, apparently, owing to exchange (ferromagnetic) interaction between V(IV) and Cu(II). Jump activation energy in barium vanadate glasses with Ag 2 O increases and conductivity drops due to the distance increase between vanadium atoms

  3. Synthesis, Antibacterial and Thermal Studies of Cellulose Nanocrystal Stabilized ZnO-Ag Heterostructure Nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mohd Zobir Hussein

    2013-05-01

    Full Text Available Synthesis of ZnO-Ag heterostructure nanoparticles was carried out by a precipitation method with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs as a stabilizer for antimicrobial and thermal studies. ZnO-Ag nanoparticles were obtained from various weight percentages of added AgNO3 relative to Zn precursors for evaluating the best composition with enhanced functional properties. The ZnO-Ag/CNCs samples were characterized systematically by TEM, XRD, UV, TGA and DTG. From the TEM studies we observed that ZnO-Ag heterostructure nanoparticles have spherical shapes with size diameters in a 9–35 nm range. The antibacterial activities of samples were assessed against the bacterial species Salmonella choleraesuis and Staphylococcus aureus. The CNC-stabilized ZnO-Ag exhibited greater bactericidal activity compared to cellulose-free ZnO-Ag heterostructure nanoparticles of the same particle size. The incorporation of ZnO-Ag hetreostructure nanoparticles significantly increased the thermal stability of cellulose nanocrystals.

  4. Direct in situ activation of Ag{sup 0} nanoparticles in synthesis of Ag/TiO{sub 2} and its photoactivity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jaafar, N.F. [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Jalil, A.A., E-mail: aishah@cheme.utm.my [Institute of Hydrogen Economy, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Triwahyono, S. [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Ibnu Sina Institute for Fundamental Science Studies, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Efendi, J. [Department of Chemistry, Universitas Negeri Padang, Jl. Prof. Hamka, Air Tawar, Padang, West Sumatera (Indonesia); Mukti, R.R. [Division of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jl Ganesha No. 10, Bandung 40132 (Indonesia); Jusoh, R.; Jusoh, N.W.C. [Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Karim, A.H. [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Salleh, N.F.M. [Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Suendo, V. [Division of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jl Ganesha No. 10, Bandung 40132 (Indonesia)

    2015-05-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag{sup 0} loaded on TiO{sub 2} was prepared by a direct in situ electrochemical method. • 5 wt% Ag–TiO{sub 2} demonstrated the best photocatalytic degradation of 2-CP. • Isomorphous substitution of Ag with Ti occurred to form Ti−O−Ag bonds. • Ag{sup 0} and oxygen vacancies trapped electrons to enhance e–H{sup +} separation. • Substitution of Ag in the TiO{sub 2} structure decreased the number of oxygen vacancies. - Abstract: Metallic Ag nanoparticles (Ag{sup 0}) were successfully activated using a direct in situ electrochemical method before being supported on TiO{sub 2}. Catalytic testing showed that 5 wt% Ag–TiO{sub 2} gave the highest photodegradation (94%) of 50 mg L{sup −1} 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) at pH 5 using 0.375 g L{sup −1} catalyst within 6 h, while under similar conditions, 1 wt% and 10 wt% Ag–TiO{sub 2} only gave 75% and 78% degradation, respectively. Characterization results illustrated that the photoactivity was affected by the amount of Ag{sup 0} and oxygen vacancies which act as an electrons trap to enhance the electron–hole separation. While, the Ag−O−Ti bonds formation reduced the photoactivity. The degradation followed a pseudo-first order Langmuir–Hinshelwood model where adsorption was the controlling step. Study on the effect of scavengers showed that the hole (H{sup +}) and hydroxyl radical (OH·) play important roles in the photodegradation. The regenerated photocatalyst was still stable after five cycling runs.

  5. Antifungal mechanisms of ZnO and Ag nanoparticles to Sclerotinia homoeocarpa

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Junli; Sang, Hyunkyu; Guo, Huiyuan; Popko, James T.; He, Lili; White, Jason C.; Parkash Dhankher, Om; Jung, Geunhwa; Xing, Baoshan

    2017-04-01

    Fungicides have extensively been used to effectively combat fungal diseases on a range of plant species, but resistance to multiple active ingredients has developed in pathogens such as Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, the causal agent of dollar spot on cool-season turfgrasses. Recently, ZnO and Ag nanoparticles (NPs) have received increased attention due to their antimicrobial activities. In this study, the NPs’ toxicity and mechanisms of action were investigated as alternative antifungal agents against S. homoeocarpa isolates that varied in their resistance to demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides. S. homoeocarpa isolates were treated with ZnO NPs and ZnCl2 (25-400 μg ml-1) and Ag NPs and AgNO3 (5-100 μg ml-1) to test antifungal activity of the NPs and ions. The mycelial growth of S. homoeocarpa isolates regardless of their DMI sensitivity was significantly inhibited on ZnO NPs (≥200 μg ml-1), Ag NPs (≥25 μg ml-1), Zn2+ ions (≥200 μg ml-1), and Ag+ ions (≥10 μg ml-1) amended media. Expression of stress response genes, glutathione S-transferase (Shgst1) and superoxide dismutase 2 (ShSOD2), was significantly induced in the isolates by exposure to the NPs and ions. In addition, a significant increase in the nucleic acid contents of fungal hyphae, which may be due to stress response, was observed upon treatment with Ag NPs using Raman spectroscopy. We further observed that a zinc transporter (Shzrt1) might play an important role in accumulating ZnO and Ag NPs into the cells of S. homoeocarpa due to overexpression of Shzrt1 significantly induced by ZnO or Ag NPs within 3 h of exposure. Yeast mutants complemented with Shzrt1 became more sensitive to ZnO and Ag NPs as well as Zn2+ and Ag+ ions than the control strain and resulted in increased Zn or Ag content after exposure. This is the first report of involvement of the zinc transporter in the accumulation of Zn and Ag from NP exposure in filamentous plant pathogenic fungi. Understanding the molecular

  6. Tuning of Ag doped core−shell ZnO NWs/Cu2O grown by electrochemical deposition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Makhlouf, Houssin; Messaoudi, Olfa; Souissi, Ahmed; Ben Assaker, Ibtissem; Oueslati, Mihrez; Bechelany, Mikhael; Chtourou, Radhouane

    2015-01-01

    ZnO nanowires (NWs)/Cu 2 O–Ag core–shell nanostructures (NSs) have been synthesized by electrochemical deposition method on ITO-coated glass substrates in order to improve the efficiency of the type-II transition of core–shell ZnO NWs/Cu 2 O–Ag NSs. The morphologies of the obtained NSs were studied by scanning electron microscopy confirming the presence of core–shell NSs. The crystalline proprieties were analyzed by x-ray diffraction and micro-Raman measurement: wurtzite ZnO and cuprit Cu 2 O phase were founded. The presence of Ag content in core–shell NS was detected by EDX. Optical measurement reveals an additional contribution δE at about 1.72 eV attributed to the type-II interfacial transition between the valance band of cuprit−Cu 2 O and the conduction band of W−ZnO. The effect of the Ag doping into the type-II transition was investigated. A red shift of the type-II transition was detected according to the Ag concentration. These materials could have potential applications in photocatalytic and photovoltaic fields. (paper)

  7. Ternary ZnO/AgI/Ag2CO3 nanocomposites: Novel visible-light-driven photocatalysts with excellent activity in degradation of different water pollutants

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Golzad-Nonakaran, Behrouz; Habibi-Yangjeh, Aziz

    2016-01-01

    ZnO/AgI/Ag 2 CO 3 nanocomposites with different Ag 2 CO 3 contents were fabricated by a facile ultrasonic-irradiation method. The resultant samples were fairly characterized using XRD, EDX, SEM, TEM, UV–vis DRS, FT-IR, and PL techniques to reveal their microstructure, purity, morphology, and spectroscopic properties. Photocatalytic activity of the prepared samples was investigated by photodegradation of four dye pollutants (rhodamine B, methyl orange, methylene blue, and fuchsine) under visible-light irradiation. The photocatalytic experiments in degradation of rhodamine B showed that the ternary ZnO/AgI/Ag 2 CO 3 (30%) nanocomposite has an enhanced activity nearly 19 and 14 times higher than those of the binary ZnO/Ag 2 CO 3 and ZnO/AgI photocatalysts, respectively. Based on the obtained results, the highly enhanced activity was attributed to generation of more electron-hole pairs under visible-light irradiation and separation of the photogenerated charge carriers due to formation of tandem n-n heterojunctions between counterparts of the nanocomposite. The active species trapping experiments were also examined and it was showed that superoxide ion radicals play a vital role in the photocatalytic degradation reaction. More importantly, the ternary photocatalyst demonstrated good photostability. - Highlights: • ZnO/AgI/Ag 2 CO 3 nanocomposites were fabricated by an ultrasonic-irradiation method. • The activity was investigated by photodegradation of four dyes under visible light. • ZnO/AgI/Ag 2 CO 3 (30%) nanocomposite has the best activity under visible light. • Activity is 19 and 14-folds higher than ZnO/Ag 2 CO 3 and ZnO/AgI in degradation of RhB.

  8. Enhanced apatite-forming ability and antibacterial activity of porous anodic alumina embedded with CaO-SiO2-Ag2O bioactive materials.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ni, Siyu; Li, Xiaohong; Yang, Pengan; Ni, Shirong; Hong, Feng; Webster, Thomas J

    2016-01-01

    In this study, to provide porous anodic alumina (PAA) with bioactivity and anti-bacterial properties, sol-gel derived bioactive CaO-SiO2-Ag2O materials were loaded onto and into PAA nano-pores (termed CaO-SiO2-Ag2O/PAA) by a sol-dipping method and subsequent calcination of the gel-glasses. The in vitro apatite-forming ability of the CaO-SiO2-Ag2O/PAA specimens was evaluated by soaking them in simulated body fluid (SBF). The surface microstructure and chemical property before and after soaking in SBF were characterized. Release of ions into the SBF was also measured. In addition, the antibacterial properties of the samples were tested against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The results showed that CaO-SiO2-Ag2O bioactive materials were successfully decorated onto and into PAA nano-pores. In vitro SBF experiments revealed that the CaO-SiO2-Ag2O/PAA specimens dramatically enhanced the apatite-forming ability of PAA in SBF and Ca, Si and Ag ions were released from the samples in a sustained and slow manner. Importantly, E. coli and S. aureus were both killed on the CaO-SiO2-Ag2O/PAA (by 100%) samples compared to PAA controls after 3 days of culture. In summary, this study demonstrated that the CaO-SiO2-Ag2O/PAA samples possess good apatite-forming ability and high antibacterial activity causing it to be a promising bioactive coating candidate for implant materials for orthopedic applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Ag/SiO2 surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrate for plasticizer detection

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Ming-Chung; Lin, Ming-Pin; Lin, Ting-Han; Su, Wei-Fang

    2018-04-01

    In this study, we demonstrated a simple method of fabricating a high-performance surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate. Monodispersive SiO2 colloidal spheres were self-assembled on a silicon wafer, and then a silver layer was coated on it to obtain a Ag/SiO2 SERS substrate. The Ag/SiO2 SERS substrates were used to detect three kinds of plasticizer with different concentrations, namely, including bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The enhancement of Raman scattering intensity caused by surface plasmon resonance can be observed using the Ag/SiO2 SERS substrates. The Ag/SiO2 SERS substrate with a 150-nm-thick silver layer can detect plasticizers, and it satisfies the detection limit of plasticizers at 100 ppm. The developed highly sensitive Ag/SiO2 SERS substrates show a potential for the design and fabrication of functional sensors to identify the harmful plasticizers that plastic products release in daily life.

  10. Synergetic effect of Ag_2O as co-catalyst for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of phenol on N-TiO_2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chu, Haipeng; Liu, Xinjuan; Liu, Junying; Li, Jinliang; Wu, Tianyang; Li, Haokun; Lei, Wenyan; Xu, Yan; Pan, Likun

    2016-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Ag_2O/N-TiO_2 composites were synthesized via a co-precipitation method for visible light photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutions with excellent photocatalytic activity. - Highlights: • Ag_2O/N-TiO_2 composites were synthesized via a facile precipitation method. • Ag_2O/N-TiO_2 composites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity. • Ag_2O acts as co-catalyst to separate the photo-generated electron-hole pairs. - Abstract: A facile precipitation method was developed to synthesize the Ag_2O/N-TiO_2 composites. Their morphology, structure and photocatalytic performance in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and phenol under visible light irradiation were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence spectroscopy and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that the Ag_2O/N-TiO_2 composites exhibit excellent photocatalytic performance. The maximum degradation rates of MB and phenol are about 8.9 and 2.9 times that of pure N-TiO_2, respectively. The excellent photocatalytic performance is mainly ascribed to the synergetic effects of Ag_2O and N-TiO_2 including the increased light absorption and the reduced electron-hole pair recombination in N-TiO_2 with the presence of Ag_2O.

  11. Emission of ZnO:Ag nanorods obtained by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Velázquez Lozada, E., E-mail: evlozada5@yahoo.com.mx [ESIME – Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México D.F. 07738 (Mexico); Torchynska, T.V.; Casas Espinola, J.L. [ESFM – Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México D.F. 07738 (Mexico); Pérez Millan, B. [UPIITA – Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México D.F. 07738 (Mexico)

    2014-11-15

    Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), X ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL) and its temperature dependence have been studied in ZnO:Ag nanorods (NRs) prepared by the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) method. The time variation at the growth of ZnO:Ag films permits modifying the ZnO phase from the amorphous to crystalline, to change the size of ZnO:Ag NRs and to vary their emission spectra. PL spectra of ZnO:Ag NRs versus temperature has been investigated. This study reveals that the PL band related to the acceptor Ag{sub Zn} (LO phonon replicas of an acceptor bound exciton, ABE (2.877 eV)), and its second-order diffraction peak (1.44 eV) disappeared in the temperature range of 10–170 K with the formation of free exciton (FX). The PL intensity of defect related PL bands decreases monotonously in the range 10–300 K with the activation energy of 13 meV. The PL band (3.22 eV), related to the LO phonon replica of free exciton (FX-2LO) and its second-order diffraction peak (1.61 eV) increase monotonously in the range 10–300 K. FX related peak dominates in PL spectra at room temperature that testifies on the high quality of ZnO:Ag films prepared by the USP technology.

  12. Ag loading induced visible light photocatalytic activity for pervoskite SrTiO3 nanofibers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Yeqiu; He, Tao

    2018-06-01

    The synthesis and photocatalytic activities of Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers were reported in this work. The fabricated Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers were characterized by TG-DSC, XRD, IR, XPS, SEM, TEM, DRS and ESR techniques. The XRD and IR results show that Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers have a perovskite structure after the heat treatment at 700 °C. The XPS result shows that Ag element exists as Ag0 in the fabricated Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers. The SEM and TEM images indicate the obtaining of nanofibers with porous structure. The photocatalytic activity of Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers was evaluated by degrading RhB and MB under visible light irradiation. The Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers show excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation because of the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag0. In the photocatalysis process of RhB and MB, lots of hydroxyl radicals were generated, which plays the key role in the decomposition of organic pollutants.

  13. Luminescence properties of Ag-, Ga-doped ZnO and ZnO-ZnS thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kushnirenko, V.I.; Khomchenko, V.S.; Zavyalova, L.V. [V. Lashkarev Institute of Semiconductor Physics, NAS of Ukraine, Pr. Nauki 45, 03028 Kiev (Ukraine); Zashivailo, T.V. [National Technical University of Ukraine ' ' KPI' ' , Pr. Pobedy 37, 03056 Kiev (Ukraine)

    2012-08-15

    Thin films of ZnS were grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) method under atmospheric pressure onto glass substrates. ZnO-ZnS:[Ag, Ga] and ZnO:[Ag, Ga] thin films were prepared by oxidation and Ag, Ga doping of ZnS films at temperatures of 700-775 C for 0.5-1 h. Crystalline quality and luminescent properties were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and photoluminescence. It is found that the doped films have a polycrystalline structure without preferred orientation and consist of small grains gathered into conglomerates. The shape of photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the films depends strongly on the preparation conditions. The ZnO-ZnS:[Ag, Ga] films exhibited the blue and green emission connected with the presence of silver and oxygen, respectively. The ZnO:[Ag, Ga] films revealed the white emission originated from different defect-related transitions. The possible origin of radiative centers is discussed (copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  14. Synthesis of Ag-loaded SrTiO_3/TiO_2 heterostructure nanotube arrays for enhanced photocatalytic performances

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hu, Zijun; Chen, Da; Zhan, Xiaqiang; Wang, Fang; Qin, Laishun; Huang, Yuexiang

    2017-01-01

    In this work, the effect of loading Ag nanoparticles on the photocatalytic activity of SrTiO_3/TiO_2 nanotube arrays (TNTAs) was investigated. TNTAs were partially transformed to SrTiO_3 through a hydrothermal treatment, which could preserve the tubular structure of TNTAs, and then, Ag nanoparticles were well deposited on the surface of SrTiO_3/TNTAs heterostructure by a chemical reduction process. Compared to the TNTAs sample, the Ag-loaded SrTiO_3/TNTAs sample showed significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities for photodegradation of rhodamine B. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag-loaded SrTiO_3/TNTAs could be attributed to the increased optical absorption as well as the efficient charge transfer and separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs induced by the SrTiO_3/TNTAs heterojunction and the Schottky barrier between metallic Ag and SrTiO_3/TNTAs. On the basis of the trapping experiments, the possible photocatalytic mechanism was also discussed. (orig.)

  15. Ag-Decorated Fe3O4@SiO2 Nanorods: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications in Degradation of Organic Dyes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Chao Li

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Well-dispersed Ag nanoparticles (NPs are successfully decorated on Fe3O4@SiO2 nanorods (NRs via a facile step-by-step strategy. This method involves coating α-Fe2O3 NRs with uniform silica layer, reduction in 10% H2/Ar atmosphere at 450°C to obtain Fe3O4@SiO2 NRs, and then depositing Ag NPs on the surface of Fe3O4@SiO2 NRs through a sonochemical step. It was found that the as-prepared Ag-decorated magnetic Fe3O4@SiO2 NRs (Ag-MNRs exhibited a higher catalytic efficiency than bare Ag NPs in the degradation of organic dye and could be easily recovered by convenient magnetic separation, which show great application potential for environmental protection applications.

  16. Phase relations in the M2MoO4 - Ag2MoO4 - Hf(MoO4)2 (M=Li, Na) systems

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bazarova, Zh.G.; Bazarov, B.G.; Balsanova, L.V.

    2002-01-01

    The M 2 MoO 4 - Ag 2 MoO 4 - Hf(MoO 4 ) 2 (M=Li, Na) systems were studied by X-ray diffraction and differential thermal analyses in the subsolidus area (450 - 500 Deg C) for the first time. The formation of the binary compound with the variable composition Li 4-x Hf 1+0.2x (MoO 4 ) 4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.6) in the Li 2 MoO 4 - Hf(MoO 4 ) 2 system and the ternary molybdates Li 4 Ag 2 Hf(MoO 4 ) 5 (S 1 ) and Na 2 Ag 2 Hf(MoO 4 ) 4 (S 2 ) was established and the thermal characteristics of the prepared compounds were examined. The new binary molybdate Ag 2 Hf(MoO 4 ) 3 was prepared by the reaction between Ag 2 MoO 4 and Hf(MoO 4 ) 2 [ru

  17. Plasmonics effect of Ag nanoislands covered n-Al:ZnO/p-Si heterostructure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Venugopal, N., E-mail: venu369@gmail.com; Kaur, Gurpreet, E-mail: gkaurdnt@iitr.ernet.in; Mitra, Anirban, E-mail: mitrafph@iitr.ernet.in

    2014-11-30

    Highlights: • Effect of Ag plasmonic nanoislands on n-aluminum doped zinc oxide (Al:ZnO)/p-silicon (p-Si) heterostructure device. • Morphology of Ag nanoisland in consequence with the optical (absorbance and photoluminescence) and electrical properties of the device. • Ag nanoisland/Al:ZnO heterostructure shows remarkable improvement of absorbance in both visible and UV region compare to the bare silicon. • Near band edge emission in photoluminescence has been enhanced with the deposition of Ag nanoisland. • Dark and illumination current density also increases with the deposition of Ag nanoisland. - Abstract: A plasmonic heterostructure of Ag (nanoisland)/n-Al:ZnO/p-Si is fabricated using pulsed laser deposition and thermal evaporation method. In this structure Al:ZnO plays an important role of transparent conductive oxide (spacer layer) as well as the rectifying junction with silicon. By introducing the silver nanoislands on Al:ZnO, light harvesting has been enhanced because of plasmonic and light scattering effect. Morphology of Ag nanoparticles in consequence with the optical and electrical properties of the device has been studied. Optical reflection measurement of the device with Ag nanoisland shows remarkable improvement in both visible and UV regions compared to the bare n-Al:ZnO/p-Si heterostructure. Near band edge emission in photoluminescence has been enhanced with the deposition of Ag nanoislands. Dark and illumination current density has also been increased with the deposition of Ag nanoisland. Our experimental results suggest that integration of Ag nanoislands may help to improve the efficiency of hybrid silicon based photonic devices.

  18. Architecture of poly(o-phenylenediamine)–Ag nanoparticle composites for a hydrogen peroxide sensor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Li; Zhu Haozhi; Song Yonghai; Liu Li; He Zhifang; Wan Lingli; Chen Shouhui; Xiang Ying; Chen Shusheng; Chen Jie

    2012-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Schematic representation of the formation process of AgNPs/PoPD/GCE via a two-step procedure consisting of electropolymerization of o-PD and electrodeposition of AgNPs and their application in H 2 O 2 detection. Highlights: ► o-Phenylenediamine (o-PD) was electropolymerized on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). ► The conductive PoPD film was three-dimensional (3D) porous structure. ► Ag NPs formed by electrodepositing and uniformly dispersed on the 3D PoPD film. ► AgNPs/PoPD/GCE displayed good electrocatalytic activity to the reduction of H 2 O 2 . - Abstract: A novel strategy to fabricate a hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) sensor was developed by electrodepositing Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) on a poly(o-phenylenediamine) (PoPD) film modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Firstly, the o-phenylenediamine was polymerized on a GCE by potential cycling to produce PoPD film. Then the AgNPs were electrodeposited on the PoPD film to form AgNPs/PoPD/GCE. The morphology of the electropolymerized PoPD film and the electrodeposited AgNPs were characterized by atomic force microscopy. The results showed the PoPD film was porous and the AgNPs dispersed uniformly on the PoPD film. Cylic voltammetry and amperometry were used to evaluate electrocatalytic properties of the AgNPs/PoPD/GCE. The electrode displayed good electrocatalytic activity in the reduction of H 2 O 2 and could be used as a sensor for H 2 O 2 detection. The sensor exhibited fast amperometric response to H 2 O 2 with high selectivity, good reproducibility and stability. The linear range was 6.0 μM to 67.3 mM with a detection limit of 1.5 μM. Thus, it is considered to be an ideal candidate for practical application.

  19. Core–shell-typed Ag-SiO2 nanoparticles as solar selective coating materials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gao, Tao; Jelle, Bjørn Petter; Gustavsen, Arild

    2013-01-01

    Silver (Ag) nanoparticles with typical diameter of about 50 nm have been prepared via a polyol process. The as-prepared Ag nanoparticles are well crystallized and exhibit a characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band centered at ∼423 nm. The SPR band shows a strong dependence on the sizes of Ag nanoparticles and the types of the dielectric medium. Core–shell-typed Ag-SiO 2 nanoparticles have also been prepared by depositing a thin layer (∼25 nm) of silica on Ag nanoparticles. The core–shell-typed Ag-SiO 2 nanoparticles show similar optical behaviors (absorption, transmission, and reflection) but enhanced stability compared to those of the Ag nanoparticles, indicating that the core–shell-typed Ag-SiO 2 nanoparticles may be used as solar selective coating materials for architectural window applications.

  20. Fabrication, characterization and photocatalytic properties of Ag nanoparticles modified TiO{sub 2} NTs

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang Qingyao [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804 (China); Yang Xiuchun, E-mail: yangxc@tongji.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804 (China); Liu Dan; Zhao Jianfu [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804 (China)

    2012-06-25

    Graphical abstract: The TiO{sub 2} NTs were first treated with bi-functional mercaptoacetic acid linkers (HOOC-R-S). The -OH group on the surface of TiO{sub 2} NT provides a strong affinity with the carboxylate group in the linker molecules. The thiol functional group in the linker molecules facilitates the binding with Ag from AgNO{sub 3} solution. After Ag{sup +} ions were reduced by NaBH{sub 4}, Ag nanoparticles formed by nucleation and growth. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ag nanoparticles with an average diameter of 9.2 nm were filled in the TiO{sub 2} nanotubes by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Bi-functional mercaptoacetic acid linkers were used to bind TiO{sub 2} nanotubes with Ag nanoparticles. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ag nanoparticles modification of TiO{sub 2} NTs largely enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange under ultraviolet light irradiation. - Abstract: Ordered anatase TiO{sub 2} nanotubes (TiO{sub 2} NTs) on Ti substrate were synthesized by electrochemical anodization and subsequently vapor-thermal treatment. Ag nanoparticles were decorated on TiO{sub 2} NTs by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used for the characterization of surface morphology, phase composition, and microstructure of the original TiO{sub 2} NTs, the vapor-thermally treated TiO{sub 2} NTs and the Ag nanoparticles decorated TiO{sub 2} NTs. The results indicate that vapor-thermal treatment favors to the transformation of amorphous TiO{sub 2} into anatase phase. Increasing the SILAR cycle times favors to increase the loaded amounts of Ag nanoparticles in TiO{sub 2} NTs. Ag nanoparticles are uniformly distributed in the TiO{sub 2} NTs, and

  1. Atomic structure and orientation relations of interfaces between Ag and ZnO

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Vellinga, W.P.; Hosson, de J.Th.M.

    1997-01-01

    This paper presents the results of investigations of Ag-ZnO interfaces, produced by internal oxidation of an Ag-Zn alloy. ZnO precipitates with the wurtzite structure were found exhibiting mainly one orientation relation with the Ag matrix. However, closely related ORs were found, rotated by small

  2. Synthesis and photocatalytic properties of MgBi2O6 with Ag additions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhong, Liansheng; Hu, Chaohao; Zhu, Binqing; Zhong, Yan; Zhou, Huaiying

    2018-02-01

    Ag-doped MgBi2O6 photocatalysts were synthesized by the low temperature hydrothermal method in combination with heat treatment reaction using NaBiO3·2H2O, MgCl2·6H2O, and AgNO3 as raw materials. The products were characterized by using power X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy dispersive X-ray detector (EDS), and UV-Vis diffusion reflectance spectra. The photocatalytic activity of MgBi2O6 with Ag additions was evaluated by degrading MB (10 mg/L) under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). The results showed that in comparison with pure MgBi2O6, the photocatalytic activity of MgBi2O6 with about 5% Ag concentration is increased by about 24% after 120 min reaction. The enhancement of catalytic activity of Ag-doped MgBi2O6 photocatalysts should be related to the band structure, morphology and larger specific surface area.

  3. CO oxidation catalyzed by ag nanoparticles supported on SnO/CeO2

    KAUST Repository

    Khan, Inayatali

    2015-01-01

    Ag-Sn/CeO2 catalysts were synthesized by the co-precipitation method with different Ag-Sn wt.% loadings and were tested for the oxidation of CO. The catalysts were characterized by powder X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) techniques. UV-Vis measurements were carried out to elucidate the ionic states of the silver particles, and the temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) technique was employed to check the reduction temperature of the catalyst supported on CeO2. There are peaks for silver crystallites in the X-ray diffraction patterns and the presence of SnO was not well evidenced by the XRD technique due to sintering inside the 3D array channels of CeO2 during the calcination process. The Ag-Sn/CeO2 (4%) catalyst was the most efficient and exhibited 100% CO oxidation at 100 °C due to small particle size and strong electronic interaction with the SnO/CeO2 support. © 2015 Sociedade Brasileira de Química.

  4. Sulfonated graphene oxide-ZnO-Ag photocatalyst for fast photodegradation and disinfection under visible light.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gao, Peng; Ng, Kokseng; Sun, Darren Delai

    2013-11-15

    Synthesis of efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst is urgent but challenging for environmental remediation. In this work, for the first time, the hierarchical plasmonic sulfonated graphene oxide-ZnO-Ag (SGO-ZnO-Ag) composites were prepared through nanocrystal-seed-directed hydrothermal method combining with polyol-reduction process. The results indicated that SGO-ZnO-Ag exhibited much faster rate in photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) and disinfection of Escherichia coli (E. coli), than ZnO, SGO-ZnO and ZnO-Ag. SGO-ZnO-Ag totally degraded RhB dye and kill 99% of E. coli within 20 min under visible light irradiation. The outstanding performances of SGO-ZnO-Ag were attributed to the synergetic merits of SGO sheets, ZnO nanorod arrays and Ag nanoparticles. Firstly, the light absorption ability of SGO-ZnO-Ag composite in the visible region was enhanced due to the surface plasmon resonance of Ag. In addition, the hierarchical structure of SGO-ZnO-Ag composite improved the incident light scattering and reflection. Furthermore, SGO sheets facilitated charge transfer and reduce electron-hole recombination rate. Finally, the tentative mechanism was proposed and verified by the photoluminescence (PL) measurement as well as the theoretical finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation. In view of above, this work paves the way for preparation of multi-component plasmonic composites and highlights the potential applications of SGO-ZnO-Ag in photocatalytic wastewater treatment field. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Electrically conductive nanostructured silver doped zinc oxide (Ag:ZnO) prepared by solution-immersion technique

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Afaah, A. N.; Asib, N. A. M.; Aadila, A.; Khusaimi, Z.; Mohamed, R.; Rusop, M.

    2016-01-01

    p-type ZnO films have been fabricated on ZnO-seeded glass substrate, using AgNO_3 as a source of silver dopant by facile solution-immersion. Cleaned glass substrate were seeded with ZnO by mist-atomisation, and next the seeded substrates were immersed in Ag:ZnO solution. The effects of Ag doping concentration on the Ag-doped ZnO have been investigated. The substrates were immersed in different concentrations of Ag dopant with variation of 0, 1, 3, 5 and 7 at. %. The surface morphology of the films was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). In order to investigate the electrical properties, the films were characterized by Current-Voltage (I-V) measurement. FESEM micrographs showed uniform distribution of nanostructured ZnO and Ag:ZnO. Besides, the electrical properties of Ag-doped ZnO were also dependent on the doping concentration. The I-V measurement result indicated the electrical properties of 1 at. % Ag:ZnO thin film owned highest electrical conductivity.

  6. Synthesis and visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of p–n heterojunction Ag_2O/NaTaO_3 nanocubes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yang, Songbo; Xu, Dongbo; Chen, Biyi; Luo, Bifu; Yan, Xu; Xiao, Lisong; Shi, Weidong

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • We firstly report a facile way to prepare the visible-light-driven Ag_2O/NaTaO_3p–n heterojunction by chemical precipitation method. • The Ag_2O/NaTaO_3 heterojunction shows the highest photocatalytic activity than the pure NaTaO_3 and Ag_2O nanoparticles under visible light. • The enhancement of the heterojunction photocatalytic activity was discussed and the photocatalytic mechanism was tested in our paper. • In summary, we think that the Ag_2O/NaTaO_3 heterojunction with the strong visible light absorption and efficient photocatalytic activity have been extended application in photocatalysis for organic dyes pollutants degradation and purification of water. - Abstract: The constructing of p–n heterojunction photocatalytic system has received much attention in environmental purification and hydrogen generation from water. In this study, an efficient visible-light-driven p–n heterojunction Ag_2O/NaTaO_3 was successfully prepared by chemical precipitation method at room temperature. It showed an enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation, much higher than those of either individual Ag_2O or NaTaO_3. The reactive species scavenger results indicated the superoxide anion radicals (·O"2"−) played key roles in RhB decoloration. From the experimental results and the relative band gap position of these semiconductors, a detailed possible photocatalytic mechanism of the Ag_2O/NaTaO_3 heterojunction under visible light was proposed. The enhancement of the photocatalytic activity was attributed to the interfacial electronic interaction between NaTaO_3 and Ag_2O and the high migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers.

  7. The new silver borate Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sohr, Gerhard; Falkowski, Viktoria; Huppertz, Hubert, E-mail: hubert.huppertz@uibk.ac.at

    2015-05-15

    Single crystals of Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9} were obtained via high-pressure synthesis at 3 GPa and 600 °C, using a Walker-type multianvil high-pressure device. Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9} crystalizes with a=674.7(2), b=943.5(2), c=1103.5(2) pm, V=0.7025(2) nm{sup 3}, and Z=4 in the noncentrosymmetric space group P2{sub 1}2{sub 1}2{sub 1} (no. 19). The orthorhombic structure was refined from 3740 independent reflections with R1=0.0496 and wR2=0.587 (all data). It is built up from infinite corner-sharing chains of BO{sub 4} tetrahedra along the a axis, which are interconnected by BO{sub 3} groups to form a network. In the structure, three crystallographically independent sites are occupied with Ag{sup +} cations exhibiting argentophillic interactions. The synthetic conditions as well as the results of the single crystal structure analysis are presented. - Graphical abstract: Noncentrosymmetric silver borate: During investigations in the system Ag–B–O, a new noncentrosymmetric silver borate Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9} was discovered. The new structure type is built up from corner-sharing BO{sub 3} and BO{sub 4} groups, forming a network. Argentophillic interactions are clearly indicated by the Ag{sup +}⋯Ag{sup +} distances present in the structure. - Highlights: • A noncentrosymmetric borate Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9} is accessible via high-pressure synthesis. • Ag{sub 3}B{sub 5}O{sub 9} is the second high-pressure silver borate. • Ag{sup +}⋯Ag{sup +} distances in Ag3B5O9 clearly indicate the presence of argentophillic interactions.

  8. 21 CFR 524.1140 - Imidacloprid and ivermectin.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Imidacloprid and ivermectin. 524.1140 Section 524... Imidacloprid and ivermectin. (a) Specifications. The product is available in unit applicator tubes containing 0.4, 1.0, 2.5, or 4.0 milliliters (mL). Each mL of solution contains 100 milligrams (mg) imidacloprid...

  9. Ag-Coated Heterostructures of ZnO-TiO2/Delaminated Montmorillonite as Solar Photocatalysts

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carolina Belver

    2017-08-01

    Full Text Available Heterostructures based on ZnO-TiO2/delaminated montmorillonite coated with Ag have been prepared by sol–gel and photoreduction procedures, varying the Ag and ZnO contents. They have been thoroughly characterized by XRD, WDXRF, UV–Vis, and XPS spectroscopies, and N2 adsorption, SEM, and TEM. In all cases, the montmorillonite was effectively delaminated with the formation of TiO2 anatase particles anchored on the clay layer’s surface, yielding porous materials with high surface areas. The structural and textural properties of the heterostructures synthesized were unaffected by the ZnO incorporated. The photoreduction led to solids with Ag nanoparticles decorating the surface. These materials were tested as photocatalysts for the degradation of several emerging contaminants with different nitrogen-bearing chemical structures under solar light. The catalysts yielded high rates of disappearance of the starting pollutants and showed quite stable performance upon successive applications.

  10. Manipulation of surface morphology of flower-like Ag/ZnO nanorods to enhance photocatalytic performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    U-thaipan, Kasira; Tedsree, Karaked

    2018-06-01

    The surface morphology of flower-like Ag/ZnO nanorod can be manipulated by adopting different synthetic routes and also loading different levels of Ag in order to alter their surface structures to achieve the maximum photocatalytic efficiency. In a single-step preparation method Ag/ZnO was prepared by heating directly a mixture of Zn2+ and Ag+ precursors in an aqueous NaOH-ethylene glycol solution, while in the two-step preparation method an intermediate of flower-shaped ZnO nanorod was obtained by a hydrothermal process before depositing Ag particles on the ZnO surfaces by chemical reduction. The structure, morphology and optical properties of the synthesized samples were characterized using TEM, SEM, XRD, DRS and PL techniques. The sample prepared by single-step method are characterized with agglomeration of Ag atoms as clusters on the surface of ZnO, whereas in the sample prepared by two-step method Ag atoms are found uniformly dispersed and deposited as discrete Ag nanoparticles on the surface of ZnO. A significant enhancement in the adsorption of visible light was evident for Ag/ZnO samples prepared by two-step method especially with low Ag content (0.5 mol%). The flower-like Ag/ZnO nanorod prepared with 0.5 mol% Ag by two-step process was found to be the most efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of phenol, which can decompose 90% of phenol within 120 min.

  11. The green synthesis of Ag/ZnO in montmorillonite with enhanced photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sohrabnezhad, Sh.; Seifi, A.

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag/ZnO was loaded in MMT support by green synthesis method. • MMT support increased absorption of dye and separation of electron-hole in ZnO. • Ag nanoparticles improved photocatalytic properties of ZnO-MMT. • The particles size of Ag in ZnO-MMT was 2–4 nm. • In contrast ZnO-MMT, Ag/ZnO-MMT was a visible light driven photocatalyst. - Abstract: The Ag/ZnO-MMT nanocomposite was prepared using urtica dioica leaf extract. To improve the photocatalytic properties of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite, silver metal nanoparticles was deposited over nanocomposite. Zn(CH 3 COO) 2 , AgNO 3 and Urtica dioica leaf extract were used as a zinc, silver precursor and reducing agent, respectively. The nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The powder X-ray diffraction showed that Ag/ZnO nanoparticles located on the surface MMT layers. The diffuse reflectance spectra of nanocomposite indicated a strong surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption band in the visible region, resulting from metallic Ag nanoparticles. TEM image demonstrated the presence of silver nanoparticles with an average size of 2–4 nm over both MMT and flower-shape ZnO. The photocatalytic activity of nanocomposite was studied for destructive reaction methylene blue dye under visible light. In addition, the effects of different parameters such as amount of nanocomposite, concentration of the dye and pH of the solution were studied. The results showed that modiffication of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite with silver nanoparticles increased the percentage of discoloration methylene blue (MB) from 38.95 to 91.95. MMT matrix showed an important role in the reduction of recombination of electron-hole in nanocomposite.

  12. The green synthesis of Ag/ZnO in montmorillonite with enhanced photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sohrabnezhad, Sh., E-mail: sohrabnezhad@guilan.ac.ir; Seifi, A.

    2016-11-15

    Highlights: • Ag/ZnO was loaded in MMT support by green synthesis method. • MMT support increased absorption of dye and separation of electron-hole in ZnO. • Ag nanoparticles improved photocatalytic properties of ZnO-MMT. • The particles size of Ag in ZnO-MMT was 2–4 nm. • In contrast ZnO-MMT, Ag/ZnO-MMT was a visible light driven photocatalyst. - Abstract: The Ag/ZnO-MMT nanocomposite was prepared using urtica dioica leaf extract. To improve the photocatalytic properties of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite, silver metal nanoparticles was deposited over nanocomposite. Zn(CH{sub 3}COO){sub 2}, AgNO{sub 3} and Urtica dioica leaf extract were used as a zinc, silver precursor and reducing agent, respectively. The nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The powder X-ray diffraction showed that Ag/ZnO nanoparticles located on the surface MMT layers. The diffuse reflectance spectra of nanocomposite indicated a strong surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption band in the visible region, resulting from metallic Ag nanoparticles. TEM image demonstrated the presence of silver nanoparticles with an average size of 2–4 nm over both MMT and flower-shape ZnO. The photocatalytic activity of nanocomposite was studied for destructive reaction methylene blue dye under visible light. In addition, the effects of different parameters such as amount of nanocomposite, concentration of the dye and pH of the solution were studied. The results showed that modiffication of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite with silver nanoparticles increased the percentage of discoloration methylene blue (MB) from 38.95 to 91.95. MMT matrix showed an important role in the reduction of recombination of electron-hole in nanocomposite.

  13. Synthesis of Ag-Cu and Ag-Cu{sub 2}O alloy nanoparticles using a seed-mediated polyol process, thermodynamic and kinetic aspects

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Niknafs, Yasaman; Amirjani, Amirmostafa; Marashi, Pirooz, E-mail: pmarashi@aut.ac.ir; Fatmehsari, Davoud Haghshenas

    2017-03-01

    In this paper, Ag, Ag-Cu and Ag-Cu{sub 2}O nanoparticles were synthesized using a modified polyol method. Size, shape and composition of the obtained nanostructures were effectively controlled by adjusting the kinetic and thermodynamic conditions. Response surface methodology was employed to consider the interaction of parameters and to develop a polynomial equation for predicting the size of the silver nanoparticles. The precisely controlled silver nanoaprticles were used as the seeds for the formation of alloyed nanoparticles. By manipulating the involved parameters, both spherical and cubical Ag-Cu and Ag-Cu{sub 2}O nanostructures are obtainable in the size range of 90–100 nm. The morphological, optical and compositional characteristics of the obtained nanostructures were studied using SEM, FE-SEM, UV–Vis, EDS and XRD. - Highlights: • Synthesis of Ag, Ag-Cu and Ag-Cu{sub 2}O alloy nanostructures. • RSM was successfully employed for predicting the size of the AgNPs. • Size and composition tuning by adjusting the kinetic and thermodynamic conditions.

  14. Synthesis of spindle-shaped AgI/TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles with enhanced photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yang, Liu; Gao, Minggang; Dai, Bin; Guo, Xuhong; Liu, Zhiyong; Peng, Banghua, E-mail: banghuapeng@hotmail.com

    2016-11-15

    Highlights: • Nanoporous spindle-shaped AgI/TiO{sub 2} was synthesized by the solvothermal approach. • The spindle-shaped TiO{sub 2} was an excellent support for loading nanoparticles, such as AgI, transferring electrons quickly from AgI, which is beneficial for stabilizing the AgI. • AgI/TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles showed enhanced absorption intensity in the visible region and exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity. - Abstract: A novel synthetic route has been developed to prepare silver iodide (AgI) loaded spindle-shaped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (NPs). The morphology and crystallinity characterization revealed that small AgI NPs, with an average diameter of 15 nm were dispersed on the surface and interior of nanoporous anatase TiO{sub 2} support. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to identify the nanoporous structure of TiO{sub 2} and the existence of AgI NPs. Diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) showed that AgI/TiO{sub 2} composite exhibited a remarkable enhancement of visible light absorption, which is ascribed to the addition of AgI. For illustrating the superior property of this hybrid as photocatalyst, the degradation experiments were carried out for processing rhodamine B (RhB) solution under visible light irradiation and it was found that the photocatalytic activity was dramatically improved for AgI/TiO{sub 2} compared with nanoporous TiO{sub 2} and commercial P25 TiO{sub 2}. The enhanced photocatalytic properties could be attributed to the large surface area of porous TiO{sub 2}, good stability of AgI particles, and the effective charge separation due to the synergetic effect between AgI and TiO{sub 2} that can facilitate the separation of electron-hole pairs. Our novel composite based on nanoporous spindle-shaped TiO{sub 2} represents a promising new pathway for the design of high-performance photocatalysts for environmental

  15. Synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation of nanostructures ZrO2:AG against staphylococcus aureus by hydrothermal method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nova, C.V.; Reis, K.H.; Galico, D.A.; Venturini, J.; Pontes, F.M.L.; Pinheiro, A.L. [Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), SP (Brazil); Longo, E. [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), SP (Brazil)

    2016-07-01

    Nanostructures of zirconia (ZrO2) has shown great prominence in the area of advanced materials and shows excellent properties such as chemical stability, mechanical strength, electrical and optical properties. When certain metals are supported on the compound, such as Fe, Ag, Au and Al, a potentiation of some properties, such as bactericide and fungicide can occur. Thus, this work deals with the synthesis and characterization of ZrO2 and ZrO2:Ag (1% and 10 % of Ag) nanostructures and the study of the influence of the antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. X-ray powder diffractograms of the zirconia and silver with zirconia shown the formation of well defined peaks of tetragonal zirconia in all the samples. Although the ZrO2:Ag (10 % of Ag) shown the characteristics peaks of cubic silver, these peaks do not appear in ZrO2:Ag (1 % of Ag) due to the small amount of silver in comparison with zirconium. The crystal size was estimated by the Scherrer equation and the calculated values for zirconia were 12.84, 12.27 and 12.61 nm for ZrO2, ZrO2 : Ag (1%) and ZrO2 : Ag (10%) respectively and the silver crystal size was 8,09 nm. Diffuse reflectance of the silver particles shown a broad plasmon band at 405 and 424 nm for the ZrO2 : Ag (1%) and ZrO2 : Ag (10%). Antimicrobial assay demonstrated that ZrO2 showed a bacteriostatic effect (61 %) and the inclusion of the silver in the ZrO2 matrix enhanced this effect to 65-72 %. Both particles with different silver content shown similar effect {[ZrO2:Ag 1%] = [ZrO2:Ag 10%]>[ZrO2]}.(author)

  16. Photocatalytic activity and interfacial carrier transfer of Ag-TiO2 nanoparticle films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xin Baifu; Ren Zhiyu; Hu Haiyuan; Zhang Xiangyu; Dong Chunlei; Shi Keying; Jing Liqiang; Fu Honggang

    2005-01-01

    The electrodes of Ag-TiO 2 with different Ag content are prepared by a modified sol-gel method. The photochemical properties of Ag-TiO 2 with different Ag content are characterized by surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPS). The results show that the SPS intensity decreased with increasing Ag contents. This demonstrates that the doping Ag plays the roles trapping photoinduced electrons, which inhibiting the recombination of photoinduced electrons and holes. The photoelectrochemical properties of Ag-TiO 2 electrodes with different Ag content are performed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) under high-pressure mercury lamp (160 W) illuminating, and photocatalytic degradation of RhB are studied at the same time. The experimental results indicate that the process of charge transfer is a controlled-step of photocatalytic reaction. The SPS intensity and the electrical impedance values of EIS equivalent circuits are contrary to photocatalytic degradation ratio of RhB

  17. Ag/AgCl nanoparticles-modified CdSnO3·3H2O nanocubes photocatalyst for the degradation of methyl orange and antibiotics under visible light irradiation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Shi-Feng; Niu, Cheng-Gang; Huang, Da-Wei; Zhang, Huan; Zeng, Guang-Ming

    2017-11-01

    CdSnO 3 ·3H 2 O (CSH) nanocubes modified with Ag/AgCl nanoparticles were constructed via the ultrasonic-assisted precipitation-photoreduction method. The obtained samples were characterized using various analytical techniques. Methyl orange (MO), tetracycline (TC), and oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTC-HCl) were degraded as target pollutants under visible light irradiation to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared samples. Compared with pure CSH and Ag/AgCl nanoparticles, the developed composite of which 5mL of AgNO 3 was added on the synthesis, labelled as 5-Ag/AgCl/CSH, occupied the best photocatalytic activity. The corresponding degradation rate for MO was 94% within 40min. 94% of TC and 90% of OTC-HCl were also degraded by 5-Ag/AgCl/CSH catalyst within 60min, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity might arise from the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag/AgCl nanoparticles and efficient separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. Meanwhile, a possible photocatalytic mechanism over 5-Ag/AgCl/CSH sample was proposed based on the experiment and theoretical analysis. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  18. Enhanced photocatalytic activity of Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}–Ag{sub 2}O hybrid photocatalysts

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Xinjuan, E-mail: lxj669635@126.com [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Liu, Junying [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, Department of Physics, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 China (China); Chu, Haipeng [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Li, Jinliang; Yu, Wei [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, Department of Physics, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 China (China); Zhu, Guang [Anhui Key Laboratory of Spin Electron and Nanomaterials, Suzhou University, Suzhou 234000 (China); Niu, Lengyuan [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Sun, Zhuo [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, Department of Physics, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 China (China); Pan, Likun, E-mail: lkpan@phy.ecnu.edu.cn [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, Department of Physics, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 China (China); Sun, Chang Q. [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2015-08-30

    Graphical abstract: Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}–Ag{sub 2}O composites were fabricated for visible light photocatalytic degradation of phenol with a high degradation rate of 92% for 60 min. - Highlights: • Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}–Ag{sub 2}O composites were synthesized via a co-precipitation method. • The photocatalytic activity for the degradation of phenol is investigated. • A high degradation rate of 92% for 60 min is achieved under visible light irradiation. - Abstract: Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}–Ag{sub 2}O hybrid photocatalysts were successfully synthesized via a co-precipitation method. The morphology, structure and photocatalytic performance in the degradation of phenol were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, electrochemical impedance spectra and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}–Ag{sub 2}O hybrid photocatalysts exhibit enhanced photocatalytic performance in the degradation of phenol with a maximum degradation rate of 92% for 60 min under visible light irradiation compared with pure Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} (57%), which is ascribed to the increase in light adsorption and the reduction in electron–hole pair recombination with the introduction of Ag{sub 2}O.

  19. Novel Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite synthesized by electrochemically active biofilm for nonenzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Khan, Mohammad Mansoob; Ansari, Sajid Ali; Lee, Jintae; Cho, Moo Hwan

    2013-01-01

    A novel nonenzymatic sensor for H 2 O 2 was developed based on an Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite synthesized using a simple and cost effective approach with an electrochemically active biofilm. The optical, structural, morphological and electrochemical properties of the as-prepared Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite were examined by UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite was fabricated on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and their electrochemical performance was analyzed by CV, differential pulse voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite modified GCE (Ag@TiO 2 /GCE) displayed excellent performance towards H 2 O 2 sensing at − 0.73 V in the linear response range from 0.83 μM to 43.3 μM, within a detection limit and sensitivity of 0.83 μM and ∼ 65.2328 ± 0.01 μAμM −1 cm −2 , respectively. In addition, Ag@TiO 2 /GCE exhibited good operational reproducibility and long term stability. - Graphical abstract: Synthesis of Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite by electrochemically active biofilm for H 2 O 2 sensing. - Highlights: • Electrochemically active biofilm (EAB) • EAB mediated synthesis of Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite • Ag@TiO 2 nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrode • Ag@TiO 2 /GCE for H 2 O 2 sensing • Nonenzymatic sensor for H 2 O 2

  20. 9 CFR 11.40 - Prohibitions and requirements concerning persons involved in transportation of certain horses.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... concerning persons involved in transportation of certain horses. 11.40 Section 11.40 Animals and Animal Products ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANIMAL WELFARE HORSE... certain horses. (a) Each person who ships, transports, or otherwise moves, or delivers or receives for...

  1. Optical and structural properties of TiO{sub 2}/Ti/Ag/TiO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2}/ITO/Ag/ITO/TiO{sub 2} metal-dielectric multilayers by RF magnetron sputtering for display application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Jang-Hoon; Lee, Seung-Hyu; Hwangbo, Chang-Kwon [Inha University, Incheon (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Kwang-Su [Quantum Photonic Science Research Center, Hanyang University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2004-03-15

    Electromagnetic-interference (EMI) shielding and near-infrared (NIR) cutoff filters for plasma display panels, based on fundamental structures (ITO/Ag/ITO), (TiO{sub 2}/Ti/Ag/TiO{sub 2}) and (TiO{sub 2}/ITO/Ag/ITO/TiO{sub 2}), were designed and prepared by RF-magnetron sputtering. The optical, structural and electrical properties of the filters were investigated by using spectrophotometry, Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and four-point-probe measurements. The results show that ITO films as the barriers and base layers lead to higher transmittance in the visible spectrum and smoother surface roughness than Ti metal barriers, while maintaining high NIR cutoff characteristics and chemical stability, which may be attributed to the lower absorption in the interfacial layers and better protection of the Ag layers by the ITO layers.

  2. Ag-loaded TiO2/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Vasilaki, E.; Georgaki, I.; Vernardou, D.; Vamvakaki, M.; Katsarakis, N.

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag nanoparticles were loaded on TiO 2 by chemical reduction. • TiO 2 /Ag and TiO 2 samples were deposited on reduced graphene oxide (rGO). • Their performance was evaluated via methylene blue removal under visible-light. • TiO 2 /Ag/rGO presented superior activity compared to TiO 2 , TiO 2 /Ag and TiO 2 /rGO. - Abstract: In this work, Ag nanoparticles were loaded by chemical reduction onto TiO 2 P25 under different loadings ranging from 1 up to 4 wt% and hydrothermally deposited on reduced graphene oxide sheets. Chemical reduction was determined to be an effective preparation approach for Ag attachment to titania, leading to the formation of small silver nanoparticles with an average diameter of 4.2 nm. The photocatalytic performance of the hybrid nanocomposite materials was evaluated via methylene blue (MB) dye removal under visible-light irradiation. The rate of dye decolorization was found to depend on the metal loading, showing an increase till a threshold value of 3 wt%, above which the rate drops. Next, the as prepared sample of TiO 2 /Ag of better photocatalytic response, i.e., at a 3 wt% loading value, was hydrothermally deposited on a platform of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) of tunable content (mass ratio). TiO 2 /Ag/rGO coupled nanocomposite presented significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity compared to the TiO 2 /Ag, TiO 2 /rGO composites and bare P25 titania semiconductor photocatalysts. In particular, after 45 min of irradiation almost complete decolorization of the dye was observed for the TiO 2 /Ag/rGO nanocatalyst, while the respective removal efficiency was 92% for TiO 2 /Ag, 93% for TiO 2 /rGO and only 80% for the bare TiO 2 nanoparticles. This simple step by step preparation strategy allows for optimum exploitation of the advanced properties of metal plasmonic effect and reduced graphene oxide as the critical host for boosting the overall photocatalytic activity towards visible-light.

  3. NCBI nr-aa BLAST: CBRC-OPRI-01-1140 [SEVENS

    Lifescience Database Archive (English)

    Full Text Available CBRC-OPRI-01-1140 ref|YP_002519420.1| NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 [Bombus hypocrita... sapporoensis] gb|ABY75171.1| NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 [Bombus hypocrita sapporoensis] YP_002519420.1 0.30 22% ...

  4. Spectral properties of hydrothermally-grown Nd:LuAG, Yb:LuAG, and Yb:Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3} laser materials

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Brown, David C., E-mail: DBrown@snakecreeklasers.com [Snake Creek Lasers LLC, Friendsville, PA 18818 (United States); McMillen, Colin D.; Moore, Cheryl; Kolis, Joseph W. [Department of Chemistry and Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0973 (United States); Envid, Victoria [Snake Creek Lasers LLC, Friendsville, PA 18818 (United States)

    2014-04-15

    We have investigated the hydrothermal growth of, and spectrally characterized, the lutetium based laser materials Nd:LuAG, Yb:LuAG, and Yb:Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Absorption cross-section data are presented for Nd:LuAG at 83, 175, and 295 K. Absorption cross-section data was also obtained for Yb:LuAG at 83, 175, and 295 K; the 295 K data was used to generate emission cross-sections using the method of reciprocity. For Yb:Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}, we present absorption cross-sections at 295 K as well as emission cross-sections derived using reciprocity. -- Highlights: • We present spectral properties for hydrothermally-grown laser crystals. • Absorption cross-section data are presented for Nd:LuAG and Yb:LuAG at 83, 175, and 295 K. • Emission cross-sections are presented for Yb:LuAG at 295 K derived by reciprocity. • We present absorption cross-sections at 295 K as well as emission cross-sections derived using reciprocity for the laser material Yb:Lu{sub 2}O{sub 3}.

  5. Fabrication of TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructure with enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activities under visible light irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Bingkun, E-mail: liubk2015@zzuli.edu.cn [School of Material and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Mu, Lilong; Han, Bing [School of Material and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Zhang, Jingtao [School of Food and Bioengineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Shi, Hengzhen, E-mail: shihz@zzuli.edu.cn [School of Material and Chemical Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450002 (China)

    2017-02-28

    Highlights: • TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O composite photocatalyst was synthesized successfully. • The composites show better photocatalytic activity for MB under visible light. • The composites also possess good antibacterial properties. • The mechanism of enhanced photocatalytic activities was investigated. - Abstract: TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructure prepared by a facile in situ precipitation route was used as an effective visible light-driven photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue (MB) and inactivation of E. coli. X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles were well distributed on the surface of TiO{sub 2} microspheres. The TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O composite with optimal mass ratio of TiO{sub 2} and Ag{sub 2}O displayed extremely good photodegradation ability and antibacterial capability under visible light irradiation, which was mainly ascribed to the synergistic effect between Ag{sub 2}O and TiO{sub 2,} including highly dispersed smaller Ag{sub 2}O particles, increased visible light absorption and efficient separation of photo-induced charge carriers. Meanwhile, the roles of the radical species in the photocatalysis process were investigated. Our results showed that the TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O could be used as a dual functional material in water treatment of removing the organic pollutant and killing the bacterium at the same time.

  6. Ag@ZnO core-shell nanoparticles study by first principle: The structural, magnetic and optical properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cheng, Hai-Xia [Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Wang, Xiao-Xu [Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Beijing Computing Center, Beijing 100094 (China); Hu, Yao-Wen [Department of Physics, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China); Song, Hong-Quan; Huo, Jin-Rong; Li, Lu [Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Qian, Ping, E-mail: ustbqianp@163.com [Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Song, Yu-Jun [Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China)

    2016-12-15

    Ag@ZnO core-shell nanoparticles of around 72 atoms have been investigated by the density functional theory, revealing proving for the first time that the core-shell structure exhibits a shrinkage phenomenon from outer shell in agreement with the other studies in literatures. Our calculations predict that the Ag@ZnO core-shell structure is a ferromagnetic spin polarized state, and the magnetism mainly stems from the spin splitting of 2p electrons of O atoms. In addition, the total and partial DOS of Ag@ZnO indicate that the nanostructure is a half-metallic nanoparticle and has the characters of the p-type semiconductor. Furthermore, the optical properties calculations show that the absorption edge of Ag@ZnO have a red shift and good photocatalysis compare to that of the bulk ZnO. These results of the Ag@ZnO core-shell structure obtain a well agreement with the experimental measurement. - Graphical abstract: Geometric structure of (a) Ag@ZnO core-shell nanostructure; (b) the core of Ag; (c) the shell of ZnO The core-shell nanoparticle Ag@ZnO contains Ag inner core of radius of 4 Å and ZnO outer shell with thickness of 2 Å. Ag@ZnO core-shell nanoparticles of around 72 atoms have been proved for the first time that the core-shell structure exhibit a shrinkage phenomenon from outer shell. Our calculations predict that the Ag@ZnO core-shell structure is a half-metallic nanoparticle and has the characters of the p-type semiconductor. The absorption edge of Ag@ZnO have a red shift and get good photo-catalysis compare to that of the bulk ZnO.

  7. Synthesis of Ag-TiO2 composite nano thin film for antimicrobial application

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Binyu; Leung, Kar Man; Guo, Qiuquan; Lau, Woon Ming; Yang, Jun

    2011-03-01

    TiO2 photocatalysts have been found to kill cancer cells, bacteria and viruses under mild UV illumination, which offers numerous potential applications. On the other hand, Ag has long been proved as a good antibacterial material as well. The advantage of Ag-TiO2 nanocomposite is to expand the nanomaterial's antibacterial function to a broader range of working conditions. In this study neat TiO2 and Ag-TiO2 composite nanofilms were successfully prepared on silicon wafer via the sol-gel method by the spin-coating technique. The as-prepared composite Ag-TiO2 and TiO2 films with different silver content were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to determine the topologies, microstructures and chemical compositions, respectively. It was found that the silver nanoparticles were uniformly distributed and strongly attached to the mesoporous TiO2 matrix. The morphology of the composite film could be controlled by simply tuning the molar ratio of the silver nitrate aqueous solution. XPS results confirmed that the Ag was in the Ag0 state. The antimicrobial effect of the synthesized nanofilms was carried out against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 29425) by using an 8 W UV lamp with a constant relative intensity of 0.6 mW cm - 2 and in the dark respectively. The synthesized Ag-TiO2 thin films showed enhanced bactericidal activities compared to the neat TiO2 nanofilm both in the dark and under UV illumination.

  8. Synthesis of Ag-TiO2 composite nano thin film for antimicrobial application

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yu Binyu; Guo Qiuquan; Yang Jun; Leung, Kar Man; Lau, Woon Ming

    2011-01-01

    TiO 2 photocatalysts have been found to kill cancer cells, bacteria and viruses under mild UV illumination, which offers numerous potential applications. On the other hand, Ag has long been proved as a good antibacterial material as well. The advantage of Ag-TiO 2 nanocomposite is to expand the nanomaterial's antibacterial function to a broader range of working conditions. In this study neat TiO 2 and Ag-TiO 2 composite nanofilms were successfully prepared on silicon wafer via the sol-gel method by the spin-coating technique. The as-prepared composite Ag-TiO 2 and TiO 2 films with different silver content were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to determine the topologies, microstructures and chemical compositions, respectively. It was found that the silver nanoparticles were uniformly distributed and strongly attached to the mesoporous TiO 2 matrix. The morphology of the composite film could be controlled by simply tuning the molar ratio of the silver nitrate aqueous solution. XPS results confirmed that the Ag was in the Ag 0 state. The antimicrobial effect of the synthesized nanofilms was carried out against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 29425) by using an 8 W UV lamp with a constant relative intensity of 0.6 mW cm -2 and in the dark respectively. The synthesized Ag-TiO 2 thin films showed enhanced bactericidal activities compared to the neat TiO 2 nanofilm both in the dark and under UV illumination.

  9. Interpretation of dc and ac conductivity of Ag2O–SeO2–MoO3 glass-nanocomposite-semiconductor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bhattacharya, Sanjib; Kundu, Ranadip; Das, Anindya Sundar; Roy, Debasish

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Polaron hopping. • Dc and ac conductivity. • Mott's model and Greave's model. • Ag 2 MoO 4 , Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 and Ag 6 Mo 10 O 33 nanoparticles and SeO 3 and SeO 4 nanoclusters. • XRD and FESEM studies. - Abstract: A new type of semiconducting glass-nanocomposites 0.3Ag 2 O–0.7 (xMoO 3 –(1 − x) SeO 2 ) is prepared by melt-quenching route. The formation of Ag 2 MoO 4 , Ag 2 Mo 2 O 7 and Ag 6 Mo 10 O 33 nanoparticles and SeO 3 and SeO 4 nanoclusters in glass-nanocomposites has been confirmed from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopic (FESEM) studies. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is employed to find out Se−O stretching vibration as well as stretching vibrations of Mo 2 O 7 2− ions. The dc conductivity of them is studied on the light of polaron hopping approach in a wide temperature range. At low temperatures, variable range hopping model (Mott's model) is employed to analyze the conductivity data. Greave's model is used to predict temperature dependent variable range hopping in the high temperature region. Frequency dependent ac conductivity is well explained on the basis of tunneling. I–V characteristics of the as-prepared samples have also been investigated

  10. Graphene–Ag/ZnO nanocomposites as high performance photocatalysts under visible light irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ahmad, M.; Ahmed, E.; Hong, Z.L.; Khalid, N.R.; Ahmed, W.; Elhissi, A.

    2013-01-01

    Highlights: •Synthesis of Graphene–Ag/ZnO composite photocatalysts by facile one-step nontoxic approach. •Enhanced visible light absorption and efficient charge separation of ZnO by graphene modification and silver doping. •Effective utilization of photo-induced conduction band electron and valance band hole to photocatalytic degradation process. •Excellent photocatalytic performance of composites over pure ZnO. •The reduction in COD and TOC confirms the destruction of the organic molecules in the effluents along with colour removal. -- Abstract: Visible-light-responsive Graphene–Ag/ZnO nanocomposites were fabricated using a facile, one-pot, nontoxic solvothermal process for the photodegradation of organic dyes. During the solvothermal process reduction of graphene oxide and loading of Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles on two-dimensional graphene sheets were achieved. Electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, BET surface area measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction were used to confirm that the Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles as randomly dispersed and effectively decorated on graphene sheets via covalent bonds between Zn and C atoms. Optical properties studied using UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy confirmed that the absorption edge of Ag-doped ZnO shifted to visible-light region with the incorporation of graphene. The as-synthesized Graphene–Ag/ZnO nanocomposites showed unprecedented photodecomposition efficiency compared to the Ag-doped ZnO, pristine ZnO and commercial ZnO under visible-light. The textile mill effluent containing organic substances was also treated using photocatalysis and the reduction in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the treated effluent revealed a complete destruction of the organic molecules along with colour removal. This dramatically enhanced photoactivity of the composite which is attributed to retarded charge recombination rate

  11. High mobility of the strongly confined hole gas in AgTaO3/SrTiO3

    KAUST Repository

    Nazir, Safdar

    2012-05-18

    A theoretical study of the two-dimensional hole gas at the (AgO)−/(TiO2)0 p-type interface in the AgTaO3/SrTiO3 (001) heterostructure is presented. The Ag 4d states strongly hybridize with the O 2p states and contribute to the hole gas. It is demonstrated that the holes are confined to an ultra thin layer (∼4.9Å) with a considerable carrier density of ∼1014cm−2. We estimate a hole mobility of 18.6 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is high enough to enable device applications.

  12. High mobility of the strongly confined hole gas in AgTaO3/SrTiO3

    KAUST Repository

    Nazir, Safdar; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo; Upadhyay Kahaly, M.

    2012-01-01

    A theoretical study of the two-dimensional hole gas at the (AgO)−/(TiO2)0 p-type interface in the AgTaO3/SrTiO3 (001) heterostructure is presented. The Ag 4d states strongly hybridize with the O 2p states and contribute to the hole gas. It is demonstrated that the holes are confined to an ultra thin layer (∼4.9Å) with a considerable carrier density of ∼1014cm−2. We estimate a hole mobility of 18.6 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is high enough to enable device applications.

  13. Synthesis and characterization of Ag doped TiO{sub 2} heterojunction films and their photocatalytic performances

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Demirci, Selim, E-mail: selim.demirci@marmara.edu.tr [Marmara University, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Kadiköy, 34722 Istanbul (Turkey); Dikici, Tuncay [Izmir Katip Celebi University, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Cigli, 35620 Izmir (Turkey); Yurddaskal, Metin [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 Izmir (Turkey); Center for Fabrication and Application of Electronic Materials, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 Izmir (Turkey); Gultekin, Serdar [Department of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 İzmir (Turkey); Experimental Science Applications and Research Center, Celal Bayar University, 45140 Manisa (Turkey); Toparli, Mustafa; Celik, Erdal [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 Izmir (Turkey); Department of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 İzmir (Turkey); Center for Fabrication and Application of Electronic Materials, Dokuz Eylul University, 35390 Izmir (Turkey)

    2016-12-30

    Highlights: • Ag doped TiO{sub 2} films were successfully synthesized by sol–gel spin coating method. • Ag in TiO{sub 2} lattice enters in intermediate states to decrease TiO{sub 2} bandgap energy. • Ag dopants increase the photoactivity and superhydrophilicity. • The degradation kinetics of methylene blue was studied. • The 0.7 mol% of Ag was found to be the optimum concentration. - Abstract: In this study, undoped and silver (Ag) doped titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}) films were successfully synthesized by sol-gel spin coating technique on the Si substrates. Photocatalytic activities of the TiO{sub 2} films with different Ag content were investigated for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV light irradiation. The crystal phase structure, surface morphology, chemical and optical properties of Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} films were characterized using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis spectrophotometer, and FTIR spectrophotometer. The results showed that the Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} films calcined at 500 °C had the crystalline anatase phases and the surface morphologies with some cracks. Ag substitution into TiO{sub 2} matrix enhanced the photocatalytic activity of TiO{sub 2} films under UV light irradiation as compared to the undoped TiO{sub 2} film. Furthermore, the results indicated that the 0.7% Ag doped TiO{sub 2} film exhibited a superior photocatalytic activity than that of undoped and other Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} films. This study demonstrated the potential of an application of Ag doped films to efficiently treat dissolved organic contaminants in water.

  14. Ag nanodots decorated SiO2 coated ZnO core-shell nanostructure with enhanced luminescence property as potential imaging agent

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gupta, Jagriti; Barick, K. C.; Hassan, P. A.; Bahadur, Dhirendra

    2018-04-01

    Ag decorated silica coated ZnO nanocomposite (Ag@SiO2@ZnO NCs) has been synthesized by soft chemical approach. The physico-chemical properties of Ag@SiO2@ZnO NCs are investigated by various sophisticated characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-visible absorption and photoluminescent spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction confirms the phase formation of ZnO and Ag in nanocomposite. TEM micrograph clearly shows that Ag nanodots are well decorated over silica coated ZnO NCs. The photoluminescent study reveals the enhancement in the photoluminance property when the Ag nanodots are decorated over silica coated ZnO nanocomposite due to an electromagnetic coupling between excitons and plasmons. Furthermore, the photoluminescent property is an important tool for bio-imaging application, reveal that NCs give green and red emission after excitation with 488 and 535 nm. Therefore, low cytotoxicity and excellent fluorescence stability in vitro makes it a more suitable material for both cellular imaging and therapy for biomedical applications.

  15. Ionic liquid-assisted photochemical synthesis of ZnO/Ag_2O heterostructures with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhao, Shuo; Zhang, Yiwei; Zhou, Yuming; Zhang, Chao; Fang, Jiasheng; Sheng, Xiaoli

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • ZnO/Ag_2O heterostructures have been successfully fabricated by a photochemical route. • Ionic liquids were used as template for shape-controllable ZnO nanomaterials. • The type of ionic liquid played an important role in the growth of ZnO nanoparticles. • ZnO/Ag_2O heterostructures had the enhanced photocatalytic ability. • Photocatalytic activity is a result of the combination of various factors. - Abstract: ZnO/Ag_2O heterostructures have been successfully fabricated using ionic liquids (ILs) as templates by a simple photochemical route. The influence of the type of ionic liquid and synthetic method on the morphology of ZnO, as well as the photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline (TC) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) under ultraviolet and visible light irradiation was studied. The samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, PL and UV–vis DRS. The results established that the type of ionic liquid and synthetic method played an important role in the growth of ZnO nanoparticles. And as-fabricated ZnO/Ag_2O materials exhibited self-assembled flower-like architecture whose size was about 3 μm. Moreover, as-prepared ZnO/Ag_2O exhibited the enhanced photocatalytic activity than ZnO sample, which may be due to the special structure, heterojunction, enhanced adsorption capability of dye, the improved separation rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. According to the results of radical trapping experiments, it can be found that • OH and h"+ were the main active species for the photocatalytic degradation of RhB. It is valuable to develop this facile route preparing the highly dispersive flower-like ZnO/Ag_2O materials, which can be beneficial for environmental protection.

  16. Fabrication of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} with enhanced photocatalytic performances for dye pollutants degradation by a pH-induced method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ren, Hai-Tao, E-mail: renhaitaomail@163.com; Yang, Qing

    2017-02-28

    Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} was synthesized by a pH-induced chemical precipitation method. • Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} showed good activities in the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange. • Hydroxyl radicals played the predominant role in methyl orange photodegradation. - Abstract: Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} composites synthesized in this study were applied into the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) under UV and visible light irradiation. X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope analysis demonstrated that Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles were well distributed on the surface of TiO{sub 2} and the heterostructure of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} was formed. Compared with the pure TiO{sub 2} and Ag{sub 2}O, the 3% and 50% Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} composite displayed much higher photocatalytic activities in MO degradation under UV and visible light irradiation, respectively. The degradation rate constant of 50% composite was 0.01508 min{sup −1} under visible light, which was almost 20.1 and 1.2 times more than that of the pure TiO{sub 2} and Ag{sub 2}O, respectively. Moreover, the formation of Ag(0) on the surface of Ag{sub 2}O under illumination contributed to the high stability of Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} photocatalysts. It was also found that hydroxyl radicals during the photocatalytic process played the predominant role in MO degradation. The enhanced photochemical activities were attributed to the formation of the heterostructure between Ag{sub 2}O and TiO{sub 2}, the strong visible light absorption and the high separation efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole pairs resulted from the highly dispersed Ag{sub 2}O particles.

  17. Three-dimensional Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O heterostructures for improving photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    He, Xiaoyu [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100 (China); Hu, Chenguo, E-mail: hucg@cqu.edu.cn [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Xi, Yi; Zhang, Kaiyou; Hua, Hao [Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China)

    2014-02-01

    Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O 3D network heterostructures are prepared via a simple precipitatation method. • Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O networks exhibit much enhanced photocatalytic activity. • High photocatalytic activity is attributed to its heterostructure and 3D architectures. - Abstract: Three-dimensional Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O heterostructures were fabricated by loading Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles on WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O 3D networks via a simple chemical precipitation method. The Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O heterostructures exhibited much enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under simulated solar light irradiation. The optimal molar ratio of Ag{sub 2}O and WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O is 1:2. The outstanding photocatalytic activity of the Ag{sub 2}O/WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O can be attributed to its large surface area of the three-dimensional networks, the enhanced sunlight absorption and the prevention of electrons–holes combination from the heterostructures. The experiment result demonstrates that wide band gap semiconductor (WO{sub 3}·0.33H{sub 2}O) modified by narrow band gap metal oxide (Ag{sub 2}O) with 3D architecture will be an effective route to enhance its photocatalytic activity.

  18. Synthesis, characterization and catalytic property of CuO and Ag/CuO nanoparticles for the epoxidation of styrene

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lashanizadegan, Maryam; Erfaninia, Nasrin [Alzahra University, Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2013-11-15

    CuO nanorodes, CuO nanoplates and Ag/CuO nanoparticles were synthesized in the presence of polyethylene glycol by depositional in alkaline environment. Oxide nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared absorption spectra (FT-IR). CuO and Ag/CuO nanoparticles show high catalytic activity for the selective epoxidation of styrene to styrene oxide by TBHP. Under the optimized reaction condition, the oxidation of styrene catalyzed by CuO nanorods gave 100% conversion with 60 and 35% styrene oxide and benzaldehyde, respectively. Ag/CuO gave 99% conversion and styrene oxide (71%) and benzaldehyde (12%) being the major product.

  19. Ternary ZnO/AgI/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} nanocomposites: Novel visible-light-driven photocatalysts with excellent activity in degradation of different water pollutants

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Golzad-Nonakaran, Behrouz; Habibi-Yangjeh, Aziz, E-mail: ahabibi@uma.ac.ir

    2016-12-01

    ZnO/AgI/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} nanocomposites with different Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} contents were fabricated by a facile ultrasonic-irradiation method. The resultant samples were fairly characterized using XRD, EDX, SEM, TEM, UV–vis DRS, FT-IR, and PL techniques to reveal their microstructure, purity, morphology, and spectroscopic properties. Photocatalytic activity of the prepared samples was investigated by photodegradation of four dye pollutants (rhodamine B, methyl orange, methylene blue, and fuchsine) under visible-light irradiation. The photocatalytic experiments in degradation of rhodamine B showed that the ternary ZnO/AgI/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} (30%) nanocomposite has an enhanced activity nearly 19 and 14 times higher than those of the binary ZnO/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and ZnO/AgI photocatalysts, respectively. Based on the obtained results, the highly enhanced activity was attributed to generation of more electron-hole pairs under visible-light irradiation and separation of the photogenerated charge carriers due to formation of tandem n-n heterojunctions between counterparts of the nanocomposite. The active species trapping experiments were also examined and it was showed that superoxide ion radicals play a vital role in the photocatalytic degradation reaction. More importantly, the ternary photocatalyst demonstrated good photostability. - Highlights: • ZnO/AgI/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} nanocomposites were fabricated by an ultrasonic-irradiation method. • The activity was investigated by photodegradation of four dyes under visible light. • ZnO/AgI/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} (30%) nanocomposite has the best activity under visible light. • Activity is 19 and 14-folds higher than ZnO/Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and ZnO/AgI in degradation of RhB.

  20. Photoelectric properties of ZnO/Ag2S heterostructure and its photoelectric ethanol sensing characteristics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Yu; Liu Bingkun; Wang Dejun; Lin Yanhong; Xie Tengfeng; Zhai Jiali

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► The ZnO/Ag 2 S heterostructure shows good photoelectric properties under visible-light irradiation. ► Transient photovoltage results reveal the separation process of photo-generated charges and give further evidence of interfacial effects. ► Photoelectric ethanol sensing characteristics have been found for the ZnO/Ag 2 S heterostructure at room temperature. - Abstract: The photoelectric properties of ZnO microspheres, ZnO/Ag 2 S heterogeneous microspheres and Ag 2 S hollow microspheres were investigated systematically by surface photovoltage, transient photovoltage and surface photocurrent techniques. The ZnO/Ag 2 S heterostructure shows superior photoelectric properties in visible-light region compared with pure Ag 2 S. Transient photovoltage results reveal the separation processes of photo-generated charge carriers in the samples. The photoelectric ethanol sensing property induced by visible light for the ZnO/Ag 2 S heterostructure has been found, which should be valuable for the practical application of semiconductor gas sensors at room temperature.

  1. Seed-mediated photodeposition route to Ag-decorated SiO2@TiO2 microspheres with ideal core-shell structure and enhanced photocatalytic activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ma, Jianqi; Guo, Xiaohua; Ge, Hongguang; Tian, Guanghui; Zhang, Qiang

    2018-03-01

    Ag-decorated SiO2@TiO2 microspheres (SiO2@TiO2-Ag) with ideal core-shell structure and enhanced photocatalytic activity were successfully fabricated by combining both coating anatase TiO2 on the surface of SiO2 spheres and subsequent depositing face-centered cubic Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on the coated TiO2 surface via novel sol-gel method and Ag-seed-mediated photodeposition (PD) route, respectively. The morphology, structure, composition and optical properties of the resulting composites were characterized in detail. The results reveal that the monodisperse SiO2 spheres of ∼260 nm were covered uniformly and perfectly by the TiO2 nanoparticle coating layer with the thickness of ca. 55 nm by the novel sol-gel method. Further, homogeneously and highly dispersed Ag NPs with an average size of 8 ± 1.5 nm were strongly anchored onto the TiO2 surface in SiO2@TiO2 core-shell spheres by the modified PD process (Ag-seed-mediated PD route), whereas polydispersed Ag aggregates and detached Ag NPs were irregularly deposited over the TiO2 surface in previous works, which is the inherent problem and has not been effectively solved for depositing noble metal NPs such as Au, Ag, Pt, Pd on TiO2 surface by conventional PD method. The formation mechanism of small and uniformly dispersed Ag NPs with narrow size distribution via the modified PD method is tentatively explained by both nucleation kinetics and growth kinetics. The key reason is that the pre-deposited seeds firmly tethered on SiO2@TiO2 spheres served as nucleation sites and anchoring points for the further nucleation and subsequent growth of Ag via photoreduction of Ag+.

  2. Visible-light photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue with laser-induced Ag/ZnO nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Whang, Thou-Jen; Hsieh, Mu-Tao; Chen, Huang-Han

    2012-01-01

    The preparation of Ag doped ZnO nanoparticles conducted through the method of laser-induction is presented in this work. The Ag/ZnO nanoparticles attained from various weight percentages of added AgNO 3 relative to ZnO were applied under visible-light irradiation for evaluating the heterogeneous photocatalytic degradations of methylene blue (MB) solutions. It was shown that the catalytic behavior of Ag/ZnO nanoparticles in the visible-light range is notably improved through the Ag deposition onto ZnO nanoparticles by the method of laser-induction with a maximum effectiveness of 92% degradation. The properties of the nanoparticles were characterized by the employments of UV-vis spectroscopy (UV-vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and selected-area electron diffraction (SAED).

  3. Ag nanocrystals anchored CeO2/graphene nanocomposite for enhanced supercapacitor applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Vanitha, M.; Keerthi; Cao, P.; Balasubramanian, N.

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Quasi spherical Ag and CeO 2 nanoparticles were decorated on rGO matrix. • The Ag/CeO 2 /rGO nanocomposite exhibits specific capacitance of 710 F g −1 . • Ag plays an imperative role in improving the electrochemical performance. - Abstract: A novel ternary Ag decorated CeO 2 /reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as surface directing agent and was designed as an electrode material for supercapacitors application. The structure and morphology of the nanocomposites were analyzed by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The synergistic effect between the CeO 2 nanoparticles wrapped rGO matrix with Ag nanoparticles gives rise to a nanostructure, empowering the material with enhanced electrochemical performance. The electrochemical characterization was performed using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic studies in 3 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. The nanocomposite electrode materials possess a high specific capacitance of 710.42 F g −1 at an applied current density of 0.2 A g −1 , which was nearly two fold higher than CeO 2 /rGO nanocomposite. This work endows a new route for building Ag/CeO 2 /rGO ternary nanocomposite which will have some impact on the exploitation of novel ternary electrode materials for supercapacitor applications

  4. Exploring the Optical and Morphological Properties of Ag and Ag/TiO2 Nanocomposites Grown by Supersonic Cluster Beam Deposition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Emanuele Cavaliere

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available Nanocomposite systems and nanoparticle (NP films are crucial for many applications and research fields. The structure-properties correlation raises complex questions due to the collective structure of these systems, often granular and porous, a crucial factor impacting their effectiveness and performance. In this framework, we investigate the optical and morphological properties of Ag nanoparticles (NPs films and of Ag NPs/TiO2 porous matrix films, one-step grown by supersonic cluster beam deposition. Morphology and structure of the Ag NPs film and of the Ag/TiO2 (Ag/Ti 50-50 nanocomposite are related to the optical properties of the film employing spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE. We employ a simple Bruggeman effective medium approximation model, corrected by finite size effects of the nano-objects in the film structure to gather information on the structure and morphology of the nanocomposites, in particular porosity and average NPs size for the Ag/TiO2 NP film. Our results suggest that SE is a simple, quick and effective method to measure porosity of nanoscale films and systems, where standard methods for measuring pore sizes might not be applicable.

  5. Synthesis and Characterization of Ag-Modified V2O5 Photocatalytic Materials

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dora Alicia Solis-Casados

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available V2O5 powders modified with different theoretical silver contents (1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% as Ag2O were obtained with acicular morphologies observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM. Shcherbinaite crystalline phase is transformed into the Ag0.33V2O5 crystalline one with the incorporation and increase in silver content as was suggested by X-ray diffraction (XRD and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS analysis. With further increase in silver contents the Ag2O phase appears. Catalysts were active in photocatalytic degradation of malachite green dye under simulated solar light, which is one of the most remarkable facts of this work. It was found that V2O5-20Ag was the most active catalytic formulation and its activity was attributed to the mixture of coupled semiconductors that promotes the slight decrease in the rate of the electron-hole pair recombination.

  6. Structural, morphological, optical and photocatalytic investigation of Ag-doped TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kundu, Virender Singh; Tanwar, Amit [Department of Electronic Science, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra-136119 (India); Singh, Davender, E-mail: Davender-kadian@rediffmail.com; Maan, A. S. [Departments of Physics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124001 (India)

    2016-05-06

    The pure and Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were prepared by using Titanium isoproxide (TTIP), silver nitrate sodium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. The calcined nanoparticles at 400°C were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD analyses reveal that the nanoparticles of various doping concentration were having anatase phase. The particle size was calculated by Scherrer formula and was found 11.08 nm for pure TiO{sub 2} and 8.86 nm for 6 mol % Ag doped TiO{sub 2}. The morphology and nature of nanoparticles was analyzed by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), the optical absorption spectra of pure TiO{sub 2} and Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles showed that absorption edge increases towards longer wavelength from 390 nm (pure) to 450 nm (doped), also band gap energy calculated from Tauc’s plot decrease from 3.20eV to 2.92eV with increase in doing. The measurement of photocatalytic properties of pure TiO{sub 2} and Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles showed that Ag-doped TiO{sub 2} degrades MB dye more efficiently than pure TiO{sub 2}.

  7. Preparation and self-sterilizing properties of Ag@TiO2-styrene-acrylic complex coatings.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhou, Xiang-dong; Chen, Feng; Yang, Jin-tao; Yan, Xiao-hui; Zhong, Ming-qiang

    2013-04-01

    In this study, we report a simple and cost-effective method for self-sterilized complex coatings obtained by Ag@TiO2 particle incorporation into styrene-acrylic latex. The Ag@TiO2 particles were prepared via a coupling agent modification process. The composite latices characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study were highly homogeneous at the nanometric scale, and the Ag@TiO2 particles were well dispersed and exhibited an intimate contact between both the organic and inorganic components. The Ag@TiO2 nanoparticles significantly enhanced the absorption in the visible region and engendered a good heat-insulating effect of the complex coatings. Moreover, the Ag@TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation into this polymer matrix renders self-sterilized nanocomposite materials upon light excitation, which are tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The complex coatings display an impressive performance in the killing of all micro-organisms with a maximum for a Ag@TiO2 loading concentration of 2-5 wt.%. The weathering endurance of the complex coating was also measured. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Synergetic effect of Ag{sub 2}O as co-catalyst for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of phenol on N-TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chu, Haipeng [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Liu, Xinjuan, E-mail: lxj669635@126.com [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Liu, Junying [Research Center for Combustion and Environment Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240 (China); Li, Jinliang [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 (China); Wu, Tianyang; Li, Haokun; Lei, Wenyan; Xu, Yan [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Pan, Likun, E-mail: lkpan@phy.ecnu.edu.cn [Engineering Research Center for Nanophotonics & Advanced Instrument, Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Materials Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062 (China)

    2016-09-15

    Graphical abstract: Ag{sub 2}O/N-TiO{sub 2} composites were synthesized via a co-precipitation method for visible light photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutions with excellent photocatalytic activity. - Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}O/N-TiO{sub 2} composites were synthesized via a facile precipitation method. • Ag{sub 2}O/N-TiO{sub 2} composites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity. • Ag{sub 2}O acts as co-catalyst to separate the photo-generated electron-hole pairs. - Abstract: A facile precipitation method was developed to synthesize the Ag{sub 2}O/N-TiO{sub 2} composites. Their morphology, structure and photocatalytic performance in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and phenol under visible light irradiation were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence spectroscopy and UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that the Ag{sub 2}O/N-TiO{sub 2} composites exhibit excellent photocatalytic performance. The maximum degradation rates of MB and phenol are about 8.9 and 2.9 times that of pure N-TiO{sub 2}, respectively. The excellent photocatalytic performance is mainly ascribed to the synergetic effects of Ag{sub 2}O and N-TiO{sub 2} including the increased light absorption and the reduced electron-hole pair recombination in N-TiO{sub 2} with the presence of Ag{sub 2}O.

  9. Preparation of mesoporous Ag-containing TiO{sub 2} heterojunction film and its photocatalytic property

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Q. Y., E-mail: wangqingyao0532@163.com [Ludong University, School of Chemistry and Materials Science (China); Qiao, J. L. [Jilin Agricultural University, College of Horticulture (China); Cui, X. Y. [Mudanjiang Medical University, School of Public Health (China); Zhong, J. S. [Hangzhou Dianzi University, College of Materials and Environmental Engineering (China); Xu, Y. B.; Zhang, S. H.; Zhang, Q. H.; Chang, P.; Li, M.; Zhang, C.; Gao, S. M., E-mail: gaosm@ustc.edu [Ludong University, School of Chemistry and Materials Science (China)

    2015-03-15

    Mesoporous Ag/TiO{sub 2} heterojunction films (Ag-MTHF) with enhanced photocatalytic activity were synthesized by a three-step approach including an electrochemical anodization technique followed by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) and solvothermal methods. The distribution of Ag nanoparticles on the inner structure of the mesoporous TiO{sub 2} film was confirmed by field emission scanning electron (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopes (TEM). The formation progress of the novel mesoporous Ag/TiO{sub 2} nanojunction film with Ag average diameter of 17 nm was illuminated. The formed nanojunction between Ag and TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles largely enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orangey (MO), and the corresponding mechanism was proposed.

  10. Heterogeneous Ag-TiO2-SiO2 composite materials as novel catalytic systems for selective epoxidation of cyclohexene by H2O2.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xin Wang

    Full Text Available TiO2-SiO2 composites were synthesized using cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB as the structure directing template. Self-assembly hexadecyltrimethyl- ammonium bromide TiO2-SiO2/(CTAB were soaked into silver nitrate (AgNO3 aqueous solution. The Ag-TiO2-SiO2(Ag-TS composite were prepared via a precipitation of AgBr in soaking process and its decomposition at calcination stage. Structural characterization of the materials was carried out by various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, transmission electron microscopy (TEM, N2 adsorption-desorption and ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis. Characterization results revealed that Ag particles were incorporated into hierarchical TiO2-SiO2 without significantly affecting the structures of the supports. Further heating-treatment at 723 K was more favorable for enhancing the stability of the Ag-TS composite. The cyclohexene oxide was the major product in the epoxidation using H2O2 as the oxidant over the Ag-TS catalysts. Besides, the optimum catalytic activity and stability of Ag-TS catalysts were obtained under operational conditions of calcined at 723 K for 2 h, reaction time of 120 min, reaction temperature of 353 K, catalyst amount of 80 mg, aqueous H2O2 (30 wt.% as oxidant and chloroform as solvent. High catalytic activity with conversion rate up to 99.2% of cyclohexene oxide could be obtainable in water-bathing. The catalyst was found to be stable and could be reused three times without significant loss of catalytic activity under the optimized reaction conditions.

  11. Metal Fe3+ ions assisted synthesis of highly monodisperse Ag/SiO2 nanohybrids and their antibacterial activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Nianchun; Xue, Feng; Yu, Xiang; Zhou, Huihua; Ding, Enyong

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: TEM images of the Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids. The homogeneous and more mono-disperse Ag nanoparticles deposit on SiO 2 spheres. Through this method, Ag nanoparticles are easily formed on the surface of SiO 2 compared to other methods. Highlights: ► We prepared homogeneous and mono-dispersed Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids by adding Fe 3+ ions. ► The Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids had core(SiO 2 )-shell(Ag) structure. ► The Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against bacteria. ► The reaction temperature was lower and the yield of Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids were higher. - Abstract: Highly monodispersed Ag/SiO 2 nanohybrids with excellent antibacterial property were synthesized by using DMF as a reducing agent and employing an additional redox potential of metal Fe 3+ ion as a catalytic agent. The obtained Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids of about 240 nm were highly monodispersity and uniformity by adding trace Fe 3+ ions into the reaction which Ag + reacted with N,N-dimethyl formamide (DMF) at 70 °C. Compared to the conventional techniques, which need long time and high temperature for silica coating of Ag nanoparticles, this new method was capable of synthesizing monodispersed, uniform, high yield Ag/SiO 2 nanohybrids. The electron was transferred from the Fe 2+ ion to the Ag + ion to accelerate the nucleation of silver nanoparticles. The chemical structures, morphologies and properties of the Ag/SiO 2 nanohybrids were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), (High-resolution, Scanning transmission) transmission electron microscopy (TEM, HRTEM and STEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV–vis spectroscopy (UV–vis) and test of antibacterial. The results demonstrated that the silver nanoparticles supported on the surface of SiO 2 spheres in Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrids structure, the Ag nanoparticles were homogeneous and monodispersed. The results also indicated that the Ag/SiO 2 -2 nanohybrid had excellent antibacterial.

  12. Facile synthesis of the flower-like ternary heterostructure of Ag/ZnO encapsulating carbon spheres with enhanced photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Xiaohua [School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Henan Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials and Pollution Control, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China); School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China); Su, Shuai; Wu, Guangli; Li, Caizhu [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China); Qin, Zhe [School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Henan Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials and Pollution Control, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China); Lou, Xiangdong [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China); Zhou, Jianguo, E-mail: zhoujgwj@163.com [School of Environment, Key Laboratory of Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, Henan Engineering Laboratory of Environmental Functional Materials and Pollution Control, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007 (China)

    2017-06-01

    Highlights: • Flower-like Ag/ZnO encapsulating carbon spheres (Ag/ZnO@C) was synthesized. • A green facile synthesis method was used. • Ag/ZnO@C exhibited better photocatalytic performance than Ag/ZnO, ZnO@C, and ZnO. • Dye and metronidazole both can be decomposed by Ag/ZnO@C. - Abstract: To utilize sunlight more effectively in photocatalytic reactions, the flower-like ternary heterostructure of Ag/ZnO encapsulating carbon spheres (Ag/ZnO@C) was successfully synthesized by a green and facile one-pot hydrothermal method. The carbon spheres (CSs) were wrapped by ZnO nanosheets, forming flower-like microstructures, and Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were deposited on the surface of the ZnO nanosheets. The Ag/ZnO@C ternary heterostructure exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity compared to those of Ag/ZnO, ZnO@C and pure ZnO for the degradation of Reactive Black GR and metronidazole under sunlight and visible light irradiation. This was attributed to the enhanced visible light absorption and effective charge separation based on the synergistic effect of ZnO, Ag NPs, and CSs. Due to the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag NPs and surface photosensitizing effect of CSs, Ag/ZnO@C exhibited enhanced visible light absorption. Meanwhile, Ag NPs and CSs can both act as rapid electron transfer units to improve the separation of photogenerated charge carriers in Ag/ZnO@C. The primary active species were determined, and the photocatalytic mechanism was proposed. This work demonstrates an effective way to improve the photocatalytic performance of ZnO and provides information for the facile synthesis of noble metal/ZnO@C ternary heterostructure.

  13. Band gap-engineered ZnO and Ag/ZnO by ball-milling method and their photocatalytic and Fenton-like photocatalytic activities

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Choi, Young In; Jung, Hye Jin; Shin, Weon Gyu; Sohn, Youngku

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag/ZnO hybrid materials were prepared by a ball-milling method. • Adsorption and photocatalytic dye degradation were tested for pure RhB under visible light. • Adsorption and photocatalytic dye degradation were tested for mixed dye (MO + RhB + MB) under visible light. • Fenton-like photocatalytic activity (H 2 O 2 addition effects) was examined. - Abstract: The hybridization of ZnO with Ag has been performed extensively to increase the efficiency of ZnO in various applications, including catalysis. In this study, a wet (w) and dry (d) ball-milling method was used to hybridize Ag with ZnO nanoparticles, and their physicochemical properties were examined. Visible light absorption was enhanced and the band gap was engineered by ball-milling and Ag hybridization. Their photocatalytic activities were tested with rhodamine B (RhB) and a mixed dye (methyl orange + RhB + methylene blue) under visible light irradiation. For pure RhB, the photocatalytic activity was decreased by ball-milling and was observed in the order of ZnO(d) < Ag/ZnO(d) < ZnO(w) < Ag/ZnO(w) ≤ ZnO(ref). For the degradation of RhB and methylene blue (MB) in the mixed dye (or the simulated real contaminated water), the photocatalytic activity was observed in the order of Ag/ZnO(d) < ZnO(d) < ZnO(w) < Ag/ZnO(w) ≤ ZnO(ref). When the photodegradation tested with H 2 O 2 addition, however, the Fenton-like photocatalytic activity was reversed and the ZnO(ref) showed the poorest activity for the degradation of RhB and methylene blue (MB). In the mixed dye over all the catalysts, methyl orange (MO) was degraded most rapidly. The relative degradation rates of RhB and MB were found to be dependent on the catalyst and reaction conditions.

  14. Synthesis and visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of p–n heterojunction Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3} nanocubes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yang, Songbo [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Xu, Dongbo [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Chen, Biyi; Luo, Bifu [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Yan, Xu [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Xiao, Lisong, E-mail: xiaolisong123@sina.com [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Shi, Weidong, E-mail: swd1978@ujs.edu.cn [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China)

    2016-10-15

    Highlights: • We firstly report a facile way to prepare the visible-light-driven Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3}p–n heterojunction by chemical precipitation method. • The Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3} heterojunction shows the highest photocatalytic activity than the pure NaTaO{sub 3} and Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles under visible light. • The enhancement of the heterojunction photocatalytic activity was discussed and the photocatalytic mechanism was tested in our paper. • In summary, we think that the Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3} heterojunction with the strong visible light absorption and efficient photocatalytic activity have been extended application in photocatalysis for organic dyes pollutants degradation and purification of water. - Abstract: The constructing of p–n heterojunction photocatalytic system has received much attention in environmental purification and hydrogen generation from water. In this study, an efficient visible-light-driven p–n heterojunction Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3} was successfully prepared by chemical precipitation method at room temperature. It showed an enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation, much higher than those of either individual Ag{sub 2}O or NaTaO{sub 3}. The reactive species scavenger results indicated the superoxide anion radicals (·O{sup 2−}) played key roles in RhB decoloration. From the experimental results and the relative band gap position of these semiconductors, a detailed possible photocatalytic mechanism of the Ag{sub 2}O/NaTaO{sub 3} heterojunction under visible light was proposed. The enhancement of the photocatalytic activity was attributed to the interfacial electronic interaction between NaTaO{sub 3} and Ag{sub 2}O and the high migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers.

  15. Preparation of ZnO/Ag nanocomposite and coating on polymers for anti-infection biomaterial application.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sadeghi, Babak

    2014-01-24

    ZnO/Ag nanocomposites coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were prepared by chemical reduction method, for anti-infection biomaterial application. There is a growing interest in attempts in using biomolecular as the templates to grow inorganic nanocomposites in controlled morphology and structure. By optimizing the experiment conditions, we successfully fabricated high yield of ZnO/Ag nanocomposite with full coverage of high-density polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating. More importantly, ZnO/Ag nanocomposites were shown to significantly inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus in solution. It was further shown that ZnO/Ag nanocomposites induced thiol depletion that caused death of S. aureus. The coatings were fully characterized using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Most importantly, compared to uncoated metals, the coatings on PVC promoted healthy antibacterial activity. Importantly, compared to ZnO-Ag -uncoated PVC, the ZnO/Ag nanocomposites coated was approximately triplet more effective in preventing bacteria attachment. The result of Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) indicates that, the ZnO/Ag nanocomposites are chemically stable in the temperature range from 50 to 900°C. This result, for the first time, demonstrates the potential of using ZnO/Ag nanocomposites as a coating material for numerous anti-bacterial applications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Synthesis and visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of p-n heterojunction Ag2O/NaTaO3 nanocubes

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Songbo; Xu, Dongbo; Chen, Biyi; Luo, Bifu; Yan, Xu; Xiao, Lisong; Shi, Weidong

    2016-10-01

    The constructing of p-n heterojunction photocatalytic system has received much attention in environmental purification and hydrogen generation from water. In this study, an efficient visible-light-driven p-n heterojunction Ag2O/NaTaO3 was successfully prepared by chemical precipitation method at room temperature. It showed an enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation, much higher than those of either individual Ag2O or NaTaO3. The reactive species scavenger results indicated the superoxide anion radicals (rad O2-) played key roles in RhB decoloration. From the experimental results and the relative band gap position of these semiconductors, a detailed possible photocatalytic mechanism of the Ag2O/NaTaO3 heterojunction under visible light was proposed. The enhancement of the photocatalytic activity was attributed to the interfacial electronic interaction between NaTaO3 and Ag2O and the high migration efficiency of photogenerated carriers.

  17. Excellent selector performance in engineered Ag/ZrO2:Ag/Pt structure for high-density bipolar RRAM applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Chao; Song, Bing; Zeng, Zhongming

    2017-12-01

    A high-performance selector with bidirectional threshold switching (TS) characteristics of Ag/ZrO2/Pt structure was prepared by incorporating metallic Ag into the ZrO2 matrix. The bidirectional TS device exhibited excellent switching uniformity, forming-free behavior, ultra-low off current of selectivity (from 102 to 107). The experiment results confirmed that metallic Ag clusters were penetrated into the ZrO2 matrix during the annealing process, which would function as an effective active source responsible for the bidirectional TS. The volatile behavior could be explained by the self-dissolution of unstable filaments caused by minimization of the interfacial energy and thermal effect. Furthermore, a bipolar-type one selector-one resistor (1S-1R) memory device was successfully fabricated and exhibited significant suppression of the undesired sneak current, indicating the great potential as selector in a cross-point array.

  18. Ionic liquid-assisted photochemical synthesis of ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructures with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Shuo; Zhang, Yiwei, E-mail: zhangchem@seu.edu.cn; Zhou, Yuming, E-mail: ymzhou@seu.edu.cn; Zhang, Chao; Fang, Jiasheng; Sheng, Xiaoli

    2017-07-15

    Highlights: • ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructures have been successfully fabricated by a photochemical route. • Ionic liquids were used as template for shape-controllable ZnO nanomaterials. • The type of ionic liquid played an important role in the growth of ZnO nanoparticles. • ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructures had the enhanced photocatalytic ability. • Photocatalytic activity is a result of the combination of various factors. - Abstract: ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructures have been successfully fabricated using ionic liquids (ILs) as templates by a simple photochemical route. The influence of the type of ionic liquid and synthetic method on the morphology of ZnO, as well as the photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline (TC) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) under ultraviolet and visible light irradiation was studied. The samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, PL and UV–vis DRS. The results established that the type of ionic liquid and synthetic method played an important role in the growth of ZnO nanoparticles. And as-fabricated ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O materials exhibited self-assembled flower-like architecture whose size was about 3 μm. Moreover, as-prepared ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O exhibited the enhanced photocatalytic activity than ZnO sample, which may be due to the special structure, heterojunction, enhanced adsorption capability of dye, the improved separation rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. According to the results of radical trapping experiments, it can be found that • OH and h{sup +} were the main active species for the photocatalytic degradation of RhB. It is valuable to develop this facile route preparing the highly dispersive flower-like ZnO/Ag{sub 2}O materials, which can be beneficial for environmental protection.

  19. ITO-free flexible organic photovoltaics with multilayer MoO3/LiF/MoO3/Ag/MoO3 as the transparent electrode

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, Shilin; Dai, Yunjie; Zhang, Hongmei; Zhao, Dewei

    2016-01-01

    We present efficient flexible organic photovoltaics (OPVs) with multiple layers of molybdenum oxide (MoO 3 )/LiF/MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 as the transparent electrode, where the thin Ag layer yields high conductivity and the dielectric layer MoO 3 /LiF/MoO 3 has high transparency due to optical interference, leading to improved power conversion efficiency compared with indium tin oxide (ITO) based devices. The MoO 3 contacting organic active layer is used as a buffer layer for good hole extraction. Thus, the multilayer MoO 3 /LiF/MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 can improve light transmittance and also facilitate charge carrier extraction. Such an electrode shows excellent mechanical bendability with a 9% reduction of efficiency after 1000 cycles of bending due to the ductile nature of the thin metal layer and dielectric layer used. Our results suggest that the MoO 3 /LiF/MoO 3 /Ag/MoO 3 multilayer electrode is a promising alternative to ITO as an electrode in OPVs. (paper)

  20. Synthesis and morphology of AgReO{sub 4} plates, rods, and stars

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bruetsch, Lennart; Feldmann, Claus [Institut fuer Anorganische Chemie, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe (Germany)

    2017-07-03

    AgReO{sub 4} nanoplates and micron-sized AgReO{sub 4} rods and stars are obtained for the first time from controlled particle growth in THF. [NBu{sub 4}][ReO{sub 4}] or [NMe{sub 4}][ReO{sub 4}] and Ag(OTf) (OTf: triflate) are used as the starting materials. The crystal growth is directed by the presence (i.e., plates) or absence (i.e., rods, stars) of trioctylphosphine (TOP) as a coordinating agent as well as by the temperature of the reaction (i.e., plates, rods in refluxing THF; stars at room temperature). Altogether, the growth of the respective morphology can be attributed to the availability and diffusion rate of dissolved Ag{sup +} that is influenced by the reaction temperature and the presence of TOP. The differently shaped AgReO{sub 4} particles are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. (copyright 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  1. A bamboo-inspired hierarchical nanoarchitecture of Ag/CuO/TiO_2 nanotube array for highly photocatalytic degradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Xuhong; Wang, Longlu; Liu, Chengbin; Ding, Yangbin; Zhang, Shuqu; Zeng, Yunxiong; Liu, Yutang; Luo, Shenglian

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Bamboo-like architecture of ternary photocatalyst. • High simulated solar light photocatalytic activity. • Integration of p-n heterojunction and Schottky junction. • Excellent stable recycling performance. - Abstract: The optimized geometrical configuration of muitiple active materials into hierarchical nanoarchitecture is essential for the creation of photocatalytic degradation system that can mimic natural photosynthesis. A bamboo-like architecture, CuO nanosheets and Ag nanoparticles co-decorated TiO_2 nanotube arrays (Ag/CuO/TiO_2), was fabricated by using simple solution-immersion and electrodeposition process. Under simulated solar light irradiation, the 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) photocatalytic degradation rate over Ag/CuO/TiO_2 was about 2.0, 1.5 and 1.2 times that over TiO_2 nanotubes, CuO/TiO_2 and Ag/TiO_2, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of ternary Ag/CuO/TiO_2 photocatalyst was ascribed to improved light absorption, reduced carrier recombination and more exposed active sites. Moreover, the excellent stability and reliability of the Ag/CuO/TiO_2 photocatalyst demonstrated a promising application for organic pollutant removal from water.

  2. Ag and CdS nanoparticles co-sensitized TiO2 nanotubes for enhancing visible photoelectrochemical performance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Qingyao; Yang Xiuchun; Liu Dan; Chi Lina; Hou Junwei

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► Ag and CdS nanoparticles co-sensitized TiO 2 nanotubes were fabricated by the SILAR method. ► The co-sensitization expands the photoresponse range of TiO 2 NTs to 668.7 nm. ► Visible light photocurrents and photocatalytic activities of CdS–Ag/TiO 2 NTs were studied. ► The electron transfer mechanism of CdS–Ag/TiO 2 NTs was proposed. - Abstract: The Ag and CdS nanoparticles co-sensitization of TiO 2 nanotubes (CdS–Ag/TiO 2 NTs) were prepared by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The phase composition, morphology and optical property were characterized by the X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV–vis diffusion reflection spectroscopy (DRS). The co-modification of Ag and CdS nanoparticles expanded the photoresponse range of TiO 2 NTs from ultraviolet region to 668.7 nm, and the CdS–Ag/TiO 2 NTs prepared by SILAR deposition of 5 cycles exhibited higher visible photocurrent and stability against photocorrosion. The detailed electrons transfer mechanism of CdS–Ag/TiO 2 NTs was proposed, and photocatalytic activity toward degradation of methyl orange (MO) under visible-light irradiation was also investigated.

  3. Gamma radiation effects on nano composites of Ag nanoparticles in Zn O matrices; Efectos de la radiacion gamma en nanocompositos de nanoparticulas de Ag en matrices de ZnO

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Villasenor C, L. S.

    2015-07-01

    The study of gamma radiation effects in nano composites of silver nanoparticles in a Zn O matrix has been performed in this work. First, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by colloidal methods, with two different mean average sizes, 48 nm and 24 nm respectively. These nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (Tem) and UV-Vis spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Then, with the synthesized AgNPs, nano composites in a matrix of Zn O were prepared. The first nano composite was prepared with the 48 nm AgNPs at 9.5 weight % of silver (Ag) and the second nano composite with the 24 nm nanoparticles at 1.0 weight % of Ag. Both nano composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (Sem). The formation of the Zn O phase in the nano composite was corroborated through X-ray diffraction analysis. It was observed that the presence of AgNPs during the formation of the AgNPs/Zn O nano composite modified the size and morphology of the structures obtained compared to those of the pure Zn O without nanoparticles, however both exhibit a radial structure. Then, the nano composite at 9.5 weight % of Ag was irradiated with gamma rays at doses of 1, 20 and 50 kGy. Samples were analyzed by Sem and the Bet technique, before and after being irradiated, in order to determine the effect of gamma radiation in the morphology, porosity and surface area of the studied material. Even when there are changes in porosity and Surface area, this difference is not very significant for some applications, however it will have to be considered during the design of a specific application of the nano composites. On the other hand, no morphology modifications were identified on the samples irradiated at the studied doses, with the electron microscopy techniques used. (Author)

  4. Bimetallic AgCu/Cu2O hybrid for the synergetic adsorption of iodide from solution.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mao, Ping; Liu, Ying; Liu, Xiaodong; Wang, Yuechan; Liang, Jie; Zhou, Qihang; Dai, Yuexuan; Jiao, Yan; Chen, Shouwen; Yang, Yi

    2017-08-01

    To further improve the capacity of Cu 2 O to absorb I - anions from solution, and to understand the difference between the adsorption mechanisms of Ag/Cu 2 O and Cu/Cu 2 O adsorbents, bimetallic AgCu was doped into Cu 2 O through a facile solvothermal route. Samples were characterized and employed to adsorb I - anions under different experimental conditions. The results show that the Cu content can be tuned by adding different volumes of Ag sols. After doping bimetallic AgCu, the adsorption capacity of the samples can be increased from 0.02 mmol g -1 to 0.52 mmol g -1 . Moreover, the optimal adsorption is reached within only 240 min. Meanwhile, the difference between the adsorption mechanisms of Ag/Cu 2 O and Cu/Cu 2 O adsorbents was verified, and the cooperative adsorption mechanism of the AgCu/Cu 2 O hybrid was proposed and verified. In addition, the AgCu/Cu 2 O hybrid showed excellent selectivity, e.g., its adsorption efficiencies are 85.1%, 81.9%, 85.9% and 85.7% in the presence of the Cl - , CO 3 2- , SO 4 2- and NO 3 - competitive anions, respectively. Furthermore, the AgCu/Cu 2 O hybrid can worked well in other harsh environments (e.g., acidic, alkaline and seawater environments). Therefore, this study is expected to promote the development of Cu 2 O into a highly efficient adsorbent for the removal of iodide from solution. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Synthesis of Ag-loaded SrTiO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} heterostructure nanotube arrays for enhanced photocatalytic performances

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hu, Zijun; Chen, Da; Zhan, Xiaqiang; Wang, Fang; Qin, Laishun; Huang, Yuexiang [China Jiliang University, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hangzhou, Zhejiang (China)

    2017-06-15

    In this work, the effect of loading Ag nanoparticles on the photocatalytic activity of SrTiO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (TNTAs) was investigated. TNTAs were partially transformed to SrTiO{sub 3} through a hydrothermal treatment, which could preserve the tubular structure of TNTAs, and then, Ag nanoparticles were well deposited on the surface of SrTiO{sub 3}/TNTAs heterostructure by a chemical reduction process. Compared to the TNTAs sample, the Ag-loaded SrTiO{sub 3}/TNTAs sample showed significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities for photodegradation of rhodamine B. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag-loaded SrTiO{sub 3}/TNTAs could be attributed to the increased optical absorption as well as the efficient charge transfer and separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs induced by the SrTiO{sub 3}/TNTAs heterojunction and the Schottky barrier between metallic Ag and SrTiO{sub 3}/TNTAs. On the basis of the trapping experiments, the possible photocatalytic mechanism was also discussed. (orig.)

  6. Photocatalytic deposition of Ag nanoparticles on TiO2: Metal precursor effect on the structural and photoactivity properties

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    E. Albiter

    2015-09-01

    Full Text Available A series of 1 wt.% Ag–TiO2 photocatalysts were obtained by photodeposition using different organic (acetylacetonate, Ag-A and inorganic (nitrate, Ag-N, and perchlorate, Ag-C silver precursors in order to determinate the influence of the silver precursor on final properties of the photocatalysts. The resulting photocatalytic materials were characterized by different techniques (UV–Vis DRS, TEM/HRTEM and XPS and their photocatalytic activity was evaluated in the degradation of rhodamine B (used as model pollutant in aqueous solution under simulated solar light. The photocatalytic reduction of Ag species to Ag0 on TiO2 was higher with silver nitrate as precursor compared to acetylacetonate or perchlorate. All the Ag-modified TiO2 photocatalysts exhibited a surface plasmon resonance effect in the visible region (400–530 nm indicating different metal particle sizes depending on the Ag precursor used in their synthesis. A higher photocatalytic activity was obtained with all the Ag/TiO2 samples compared with non-modified TiO2. The descending order of photocatalytic activity was as follows: Ag-A/TiO2 ≈ Ag-N/TiO2 > Ag-C/TiO2 > TiO2-P25. The enhanced photoactivity was attributed to the presence of different amounts Ag0 nanoparticles homogeneously distributed on Ag2O and TiO2, trapping the photogenerated electrons and avoiding charge recombination.

  7. Battery Relevant Electrochemistry of Ag7Fe3(P2O7)4 : Contrasting Contributions from the Redox Chemistries of Ag+ and Fe3+

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Yiman; Marschilok, Amy C.; Stony Brook University, NY; Takeuchi, Esther S.

    2016-01-01

    Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 is an example of an electrochemical displacement material which contains two different electrochemically active metal cations, where one cation (Ag + ) forms metallic silver nanoparticles external to the crystals of Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 via an electrochemical reduction displacement reaction, while the other cation (Fe +3 ) is electrochemically reduced with the retention of iron cations within the anion structural framework concomitant with lithium insertion. These contrasting redox chemistries within one pure cathode material enable high rate capability and reversibility when Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 is employed as cathode material in a lithium ion battery (LIB). Further, pyrophosphate materials are thermally and electrically stable, desirable attributes for cathode materials in LIBs. In this article, a bimetallic pyrophosphate material Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 is synthesized and confirmed to be a single phase by Rietveld refinement. Electrochemistry of Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 is reported for the first time in the context of lithium based batteries using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic discharge–charge cycling. The reduction displacement reaction and the lithium (de)insertion processes are investigated using ex situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction of electrochemically reduced and oxidized Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 . Ag 7 Fe 3 (P 2 O 7 ) 4 exhibits good reversibility at the iron centers indicated by ~80% capacity retention over 100 cycles following the initial formation cycle and excellent rate capability exhibited by ~70% capacity retention upon a 4-fold increase in current.

  8. High-pressure synthesis of rhombohedral α-AgGaO{sub 2} via direct solid state reaction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Akhtar, Meysam [Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Louisville, 102 Natural Science Building, Louisville, KY 40292 (United States); Menon, Madhu [Center for Computational Sciences, University of Kentucky, 325 McVey Hall, Lexington, KY 40506 (United States); Sunkara, Mahendra [Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research, University of Louisville, Ernst Hall Room 102A, Louisville, KY 40292 (United States); Sumanasekera, Gamini [Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Louisville, 102 Natural Science Building, Louisville, KY 40292 (United States); Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research, University of Louisville, Ernst Hall Room 102A, Louisville, KY 40292 (United States); Durygin, Andriy [Center for the Study of Matter at Extreme Conditions, Florida International University, VH 140, University Park, Miami, FL 33199 (United States); Jasinski, Jacek B., E-mail: jacek.jasinski@louisville.edu [Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research, University of Louisville, Ernst Hall Room 102A, Louisville, KY 40292 (United States)

    2015-08-25

    Highlights: • Direct synthesis of α-AgGaO{sub 2} via a solid state reaction of Ag{sub 2}O and Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders. • Utilizing high pressure diamond anvil cell to facilitate solid state reaction. • Experimental and theoretical study of vibrational modes for α-AgGaO{sub 2}. • Extensive characterization of synthesized α-AgGaO{sub 2} samples. • GGA + U formalism-based DFT calculations of electronic structure and band gap in α-AgGaO{sub 2}. - Abstract: In this work, we demonstrate the application of high pressure conditions to enable the direct synthesis of α-AgGaO{sub 2} via a solid state reaction of Ag{sub 2}O and Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Synthesis experiments were carried out at pressures and temperatures up to ∼10 GPa and ∼600 °C, respectively, using a resistively-heated diamond anvil cell. Thus synthesized α-AgGaO{sub 2} samples were characterized and their chemical composition and crystal structure were confirmed. In particular, electron diffraction confirmed the rhombohedral delafossite crystal structure of the synthesized AgGaO{sub 2} and its corresponding lattice parameters of a = 2.99 Å and c = 18.43 Å. The vibrational modes analysis was also conducted using a combination of ab initio density functional theory (DFT) and Raman spectroscopy. This analysis yielded good agreement between the calculated Raman-active modes and experimental Raman data. Finally, the application of the GGA + U formalism-based on DFT to calculate the electronic band structure of α-AgGaO{sub 2} provided a more realistic theoretical band gap value than those reported previously.

  9. Structural and optical studies on mesoscopic defect structure in highly conductive AgI-ZnO composites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fujishiro, Fumito; Mochizuki, Shosuke

    2003-01-01

    The electrical conductivity of (x)AgI-(1-x)ZnO (0≤x≤1) composites at room temperature increases with increasing AgI content and reaches a maximum at about 50% AgI. The results obtained by the scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry and photoluminescence spectroscopy have clarified high-ionic-conduction pathways related to mesoscopic defect structure at AgI/ZnO interfaces and mesoscopically disordered structure in AgI domain. We have observed also new optical phenomenon, which may arise from excitation energy transfer between AgI-exciton and photoinduced oxygen vacancy at the AgI/ZnO interface

  10. Ag-CuO-ZnO metal-semiconductor multiconcentric nanotubes for achieving superior and perdurable photodegradation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xu, Kaichen; Wu, Jiagen; Tan, Chuan Fu; Ho, Ghim Wei; Wei, Ang; Hong, Minghui

    2017-08-17

    Solar energy represents a robust and natural form of resource for environment remediation via photocatalytic pollutant degradation with minimum associated costs. However, due to the complexity of the photodegradation process, it has been a long-standing challenge to develop reliable photocatalytic systems with low recombination rates, excellent recyclability, and high utilization rates of solar energy, especially in the visible light range. In this work, a ternary hetero-nanostructured Ag-CuO-ZnO nanotube (NT) composite is fabricated via facile and low-temperature chemical and photochemical deposition methods. Under visible light irradiation, the as-synthesized ZnO NT based ternary composite exhibits a greater enhancement (∼300%) of photocatalytic activity than its counterpart, Ag-CuO-ZnO nanorods (NRs), in pollutant degradation. The enhanced photocatalytic capability is primarily attributed to the intensified visible light harvesting, efficient charge carrier separation and much larger surface area. Furthermore, our as-synthesised hybrid ternary Ag-CuO-ZnO NT composite demonstrates much higher photostability and retains ∼98% of degradation efficiency even after 20 usage cycles, which can be mainly ascribed to the more stable polar planes of ZnO NTs than those of ZnO NRs. These results afford a new route to construct ternary heterostructured composites with perdurable performance in sewage treatment and photocorrosion suppression.

  11. Facile synthesis of microporous SiO2/triangular Ag composite nanostructures for photocatalysis

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sirohi, Sidhharth; Singh, Anandpreet; Dagar, Chakit; Saini, Gajender; Pani, Balaram; Nain, Ratyakshi

    2017-11-01

    In this article, we present a novel fabrication of microporous SiO2/triangular Ag nanoparticles for dye (methylene blue) adsorption and plasmon-mediated degradation. Microporous SiO2 nanoparticles with pore size aminopropyl) trimethoxysilane) to introduce amine groups. Amine-functionalized microporous silica was used for adsorption of triangular silver (Ag) nanoparticles. The synthesized microporous SiO2 nanostructures were investigated for adsorption of different dyes including methylene blue, congo red, direct green 26 and curcumin crystalline. Amine-functionalized microporous SiO2/triangular Ag nanostructures were used for plasmon-mediated photocatalysis of methylene blue. The experimental results revealed that the large surface area of microporous silica facilitated adsorption of dye. Triangular Ag nanoparticles, due to their better charge carrier generation and enhanced surface plasmon resonance, further enhanced the photocatalysis performance.

  12. The fabrication and photocatalytic performances of flower-like Ag nanoparticles/ZnO nanosheets-assembled microspheres

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Deng, Quan; Tang, Haibin; Liu, Gang; Song, Xiaoping; Xu, Guoping; Li, Qian; Ng, Dickon H.L.; Wang, Guozhong

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • ZnO nanosheets-assembled microspheres (ZnOs) were prepared. • Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were decorated onto the whole surface of the ZnOs. • The Ag-NPs/ZnOs composite showed enhanced photocatalytic performance to MB and MO. • Cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectra revealed enhanced charge transportation. - Abstract: A new micro/nanostructure photocatalyst, Ag nanoparticles decorated ZnO nanosheets-assembled microspheres (Ag-NPs/ZnOs), was synthesised by a two-step method. The flower-like micron-sized ZnO spheres assembled with ∼25 nm thick ZnO nanosheets were initially fabricated via a facile solvothermal method. Then, highly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) with dimension ranging from 15 to 50 nm were anchored onto the surface of the each ZnO nanosheet by the Sn(II) ion activation method. The as-prepared Ag-NPs/ZnOs demonstrated enhanced photocatalytic performance in eliminating methylene blue and methyl orange aqueous solutions under UV irradiation, showing twice faster reaction rate than the bare ZnOs. The enhanced photocatalytic activity was due to the suppression of electron/hole pair recombination and the acceleration of surface charge transfer induced by the highly dispersive Ag-NPs, which was further demonstrated by the cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectra measurements

  13. Excellent selector performance in engineered Ag/ZrO2:Ag/Pt structure for high-density bipolar RRAM applications

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Chao Wang

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available A high-performance selector with bidirectional threshold switching (TS characteristics of Ag/ZrO2/Pt structure was prepared by incorporating metallic Ag into the ZrO2 matrix. The bidirectional TS device exhibited excellent switching uniformity, forming-free behavior, ultra-low off current of <1 nA and adjustable selectivity (from 102 to 107. The experiment results confirmed that metallic Ag clusters were penetrated into the ZrO2 matrix during the annealing process, which would function as an effective active source responsible for the bidirectional TS. The volatile behavior could be explained by the self-dissolution of unstable filaments caused by minimization of the interfacial energy and thermal effect. Furthermore, a bipolar-type one selector-one resistor (1S-1R memory device was successfully fabricated and exhibited significant suppression of the undesired sneak current, indicating the great potential as selector in a cross-point array.

  14. Highly efficient and porous TiO{sub 2}-coated Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-Au microspheres for degradation of organic pollutants

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shen, Mao, E-mail: shenmao19820808@163.com; Chen, Suqing, E-mail: 465060605@qq.com; Jia, Wenping, E-mail: tzcjwp@tzc.edu.cn [Taizhou University, College of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering (China); Fan, Guodong, E-mail: fangd@sust.edu.cn [Shan xi University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Auxiliary Chemistry and Technology for Chemical Industry, Ministry of Education (China); Jin, Yanxian, E-mail: shirleyj@tzc.edu.cn; Liang, Huading, E-mail: shanjian8208@163.com [Taizhou University, College of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering (China)

    2016-12-15

    In this paper, we reported a novel hierarchical porous Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-Au@TiO{sub 2} core@shell microspheres with a highly photocatalytic activity and magnetically separable properties. The synthesis method is included of a Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} magnetic embedded Ag core (Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}), an interlayer of carbon modified by PEI to form sufficient amounts of amine functional groups (Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-PEI), the grafting of Au nanoparticles on the surface of Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-PEI (Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-Au), and an ordered porous TiO{sub 2} structured shell. As an example of the applications, the photocatalytic activities of the samples were investigated by the reduction of Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation. The results show that the porous Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C-Au@TiO{sub 2} core@shell microspheres display higher adsorption and photocatalytic activities compared to the pure porous TiO{sub 2} and Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@C@TiO{sub 2} microspheres, which are attributed to the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) by the Ag and Au nanoparticles and the high specific surface area.

  15. Preparation of ZnO nanorods on conductive PET-ITO-Ag fibers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yiwen; Ji, Shuai; Chen, Yuanyu; Zhang, Hong; Gong, Yumei, E-mail: ymgong@dlpu.edu.cn; Guo, Jing, E-mail: guojing8161@163.com

    2016-12-01

    Highlights: • Polymeric PET fibers were conductive modified by ITO and the subsequent Ag coating. The conductive PET-ITO-Ag fiber has the surface resistivity as low as 0.23 mΩ cm. The PET-ITO-Ag fiber was used as a basal material to plant vertical ZnO nanorods. - Abstract: We studied the vertical ZnO nanorods grown on conductive conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers which are prepared by electroless silver depositing on tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) coated PET fibers through an efficient and low-cost green approach. The PET fibers were firstly functionalized with a layer of ITO gel synthesized through a sol–gel process at rather low temperature, simply by immersing the fibers into ITO sol for several minutes followed by gelation at 120 °C. Once the ITO gel layer surface was activated by SnCl{sub 2}, a continuous, uniform, and compact layer of silver was carried out on the surface of the PET-ITO fibers through electroless plating operation at room temperature. The as-prepared PET-ITO-Ag fibers had good electrical conductivity, with surface resistivity as low as 0.23 mΩ cm. The overall procedure is simple, efficient, nontoxic, and controllable. The conductive PET-ITO-Ag fiber was used successfully as a flexible basal material to plant vertical ZnO nanorods through controlling the seeding and growth processes. The morphology of the PET-ITO, PET-ITO-Ag, and PET-ITO-Ag-ZnO fibers were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Undergone the whole process, although the tensile strength of the fiber decreased slightly, they may still exert their applications in flexible electronic such as photovoltaic and piezoelectric devices.

  16. Preparation of ZnO nanorods on conductive PET-ITO-Ag fibers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Yiwen; Ji, Shuai; Chen, Yuanyu; Zhang, Hong; Gong, Yumei; Guo, Jing

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Polymeric PET fibers were conductive modified by ITO and the subsequent Ag coating. The conductive PET-ITO-Ag fiber has the surface resistivity as low as 0.23 mΩ cm. The PET-ITO-Ag fiber was used as a basal material to plant vertical ZnO nanorods. - Abstract: We studied the vertical ZnO nanorods grown on conductive conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers which are prepared by electroless silver depositing on tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) coated PET fibers through an efficient and low-cost green approach. The PET fibers were firstly functionalized with a layer of ITO gel synthesized through a sol–gel process at rather low temperature, simply by immersing the fibers into ITO sol for several minutes followed by gelation at 120 °C. Once the ITO gel layer surface was activated by SnCl 2 , a continuous, uniform, and compact layer of silver was carried out on the surface of the PET-ITO fibers through electroless plating operation at room temperature. The as-prepared PET-ITO-Ag fibers had good electrical conductivity, with surface resistivity as low as 0.23 mΩ cm. The overall procedure is simple, efficient, nontoxic, and controllable. The conductive PET-ITO-Ag fiber was used successfully as a flexible basal material to plant vertical ZnO nanorods through controlling the seeding and growth processes. The morphology of the PET-ITO, PET-ITO-Ag, and PET-ITO-Ag-ZnO fibers were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Undergone the whole process, although the tensile strength of the fiber decreased slightly, they may still exert their applications in flexible electronic such as photovoltaic and piezoelectric devices.

  17. Synthesis of efficient silica supported TiO_2/Ag_2O heterostructured catalyst with enhanced photocatalytic performance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zelekew, Osman Ahmed; Kuo, Dong-Hau; Yassin, Jemal Mohammed; Ahmed, Kedir Ebrahim; Abdullah, Hairus

    2017-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Proposed charge separation mechanism and degradation of dye with photocatalyst under light irradiation. - Highlights: • n-type TiO_2 inside and p-type Ag_2O outside was designed. • The p–n junction formation built in an electric field. • The p–n junction facilitates the electrons and holes separation. • The degradation of dye becomes more effective with Ag_2O/TiO_2 catalyst. - Abstract: We develop the n-type TiO_2 coated on SiO_2 support abbreviated as SiO_2/TiO_2 (ST) followed by deposition of p-type Ag_2O nanoparticles outside for the purpose of photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Different composite catalysts were prepared with changing the amount AgNO_3 (such as 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and the composites were abbreviated as ST, STA-5, STA-10, STA-20, and STA-30, respectively. The composite catalysts were characterized with different techniques and tested for Rhodamine B (RhB) dye degradation under UV and visible light. Among the composite catalysts, the degradation efficiency of STA-20 was the highest and it degraded about 99% within 40 min under UV light-irradiation. However, the ST, STA-5, STA-10, and STA-30 composite catalysts could degrade about 21%, 47%, 58%, and 75% of the dye, respectively. Furthermore, the STA-5, STA-10, STA-20, and STA-30 composites were also tested and about 39%, 47%, 57%, and 42% of the dye, respectively, was degraded under visible light source. Hence, the formation of p–n junction heterostructure between n-type TiO_2 and p-type Ag_2O could enhance the degradation of RhB in both UV and visible light irradiation. It could be also potentially applicable photocatalyst for environmental remediation.

  18. Band gap-engineered ZnO and Ag/ZnO by ball-milling method and their photocatalytic and Fenton-like photocatalytic activities

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Choi, Young In [School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541 (Korea, Republic of); Jung, Hye Jin [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134 (Korea, Republic of); Shin, Weon Gyu, E-mail: wgshin@cnu.ac.kr [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134 (Korea, Republic of); Sohn, Youngku, E-mail: youngkusohn@ynu.ac.kr [School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541 (Korea, Republic of)

    2015-11-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag/ZnO hybrid materials were prepared by a ball-milling method. • Adsorption and photocatalytic dye degradation were tested for pure RhB under visible light. • Adsorption and photocatalytic dye degradation were tested for mixed dye (MO + RhB + MB) under visible light. • Fenton-like photocatalytic activity (H{sub 2}O{sub 2} addition effects) was examined. - Abstract: The hybridization of ZnO with Ag has been performed extensively to increase the efficiency of ZnO in various applications, including catalysis. In this study, a wet (w) and dry (d) ball-milling method was used to hybridize Ag with ZnO nanoparticles, and their physicochemical properties were examined. Visible light absorption was enhanced and the band gap was engineered by ball-milling and Ag hybridization. Their photocatalytic activities were tested with rhodamine B (RhB) and a mixed dye (methyl orange + RhB + methylene blue) under visible light irradiation. For pure RhB, the photocatalytic activity was decreased by ball-milling and was observed in the order of ZnO(d) < Ag/ZnO(d) < ZnO(w) < Ag/ZnO(w) ≤ ZnO(ref). For the degradation of RhB and methylene blue (MB) in the mixed dye (or the simulated real contaminated water), the photocatalytic activity was observed in the order of Ag/ZnO(d) < ZnO(d) < ZnO(w) < Ag/ZnO(w) ≤ ZnO(ref). When the photodegradation tested with H{sub 2}O{sub 2} addition, however, the Fenton-like photocatalytic activity was reversed and the ZnO(ref) showed the poorest activity for the degradation of RhB and methylene blue (MB). In the mixed dye over all the catalysts, methyl orange (MO) was degraded most rapidly. The relative degradation rates of RhB and MB were found to be dependent on the catalyst and reaction conditions.

  19. Synthesis of Ag-TiO{sub 2} composite nano thin film for antimicrobial application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yu Binyu; Guo Qiuquan; Yang Jun [Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B9 (Canada); Leung, Kar Man [Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B9 (Canada); Lau, Woon Ming [Surface Science Western, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5B9 (Canada)

    2011-03-18

    TiO{sub 2} photocatalysts have been found to kill cancer cells, bacteria and viruses under mild UV illumination, which offers numerous potential applications. On the other hand, Ag has long been proved as a good antibacterial material as well. The advantage of Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite is to expand the nanomaterial's antibacterial function to a broader range of working conditions. In this study neat TiO{sub 2} and Ag-TiO{sub 2} composite nanofilms were successfully prepared on silicon wafer via the sol-gel method by the spin-coating technique. The as-prepared composite Ag-TiO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2} films with different silver content were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to determine the topologies, microstructures and chemical compositions, respectively. It was found that the silver nanoparticles were uniformly distributed and strongly attached to the mesoporous TiO{sub 2} matrix. The morphology of the composite film could be controlled by simply tuning the molar ratio of the silver nitrate aqueous solution. XPS results confirmed that the Ag was in the Ag{sup 0} state. The antimicrobial effect of the synthesized nanofilms was carried out against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ATCC 29425) by using an 8 W UV lamp with a constant relative intensity of 0.6 mW cm{sup -2} and in the dark respectively. The synthesized Ag-TiO{sub 2} thin films showed enhanced bactericidal activities compared to the neat TiO{sub 2} nanofilm both in the dark and under UV illumination.

  20. Influences of Different Preparation Conditions on Catalytic Activity of Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 for Hydrogenation of Coal Pyrolysis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lei Zhang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available A series of catalysts of Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 was prepared by equivalent volume impregnation method. The effects of the metal loading, calcination time, and calcination temperatures of Ag and Co, respectively, on the catalytic activity were investigated. The optimum preparing condition of Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 was decided, and then the influence of different preparation conditions on catalytic activity of Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 was analyzed. The results showed the following: (1 at the same preparation condition, when silver loading was 8%, the Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 showed higher catalyst activity, (2 the catalyst activity had obviously improved when the cobalt loading was 8%, while it was weaker at loadings 5% and 10%, (3 the catalyst activity was influenced by different calcination temperatures of silver, but the influences were not marked, (4 the catalyst activity can be influenced by calcination time of silver, (5 different calcination times of cobalt can also influence the catalyst activity of Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3, and (6 the best preparation conditions of the Ag2O-Co3O4/γ-Al2O3 were silver loading of 8%, calcination temperature of silver of 450°C, and calcinations time of silver of 4 h, while at the same time the cobalt loading was 8%, the calcination temperature of cobalt was 450°C, and calcination time of cobalt was 4 h.

  1. Ag-Modified In2O3 Nanoparticles for Highly Sensitive and Selective Ethanol Alarming

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jinxiao Wang

    2017-09-01

    Full Text Available Pure In2O3 nanoparticles are prepared by a facile precipitation method and are further modified by Ag. The synthesized samples are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman and UV-Vis spectra. The results show the successful heterojunction formation between Ag and In2O3. Gas sensing property measurements show that the 5 mol % Ag-modified In2O3 sensor has the response of 67 to 50 ppm ethanol, and fast response and recovery time of 22.3 and 11.7 s. The response is over one magnitude higher than that of pure In2O3, which can be attributed to the enhanced catalytic activity of Ag-modified In2O3 as compared with the pure one. The mechanism of the gas sensor can be explained by the spillover effect of Ag, which enhances the oxygen adsorption onto the surface of In2O3 and thus give rise to the higher activity and larger surface barrier height.

  2. Decolorization of Methylene Blue by Ag/SrSnO3 Composites under Ultraviolet Radiation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Patcharanan Junploy

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available SrSn(OH6 precursors synthesized by a cyclic microwave radiation (CMR process were calcined at 900°C for 3 h to form rod-like SrSnO3. Further, the rod-like SrSnO3 and AgNO3 in ethylene glycol (EG were ultrasonically vibrated to form rod-like Ag/SrSnO3 composites, characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS, electron microscopy (EM, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR spectroscopy, and UV-visible analysis. The photocatalyses of rod-like SrSnO3, 1 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt% Ag/SrSnO3 composites were studied for degradation of methylene blue (MB, C16H18N3SCl dye under ultraviolet (UV radiation. In this research, the 5 wt% Ag/SrSnO3 composites showed the highest activity, enhanced by the electron-hole separation process. The photoactivity became lower by the excessive Ag nanoparticles due to the negative effect caused by reduction in the absorption of UV radiation.

  3. Effect of Core-Shell Ag@TiO2 Volume Ratio on Characteristics of TiO2-Based DSSCs

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ho Chang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available This paper aims to develop photoanode material required by dye-sensitized solar cells. The material prepared is in the form of Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites. This material is used to replace the titanium oxide powder commonly used in general DSSCs. The prepared Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites are mixed with Degussa P25 TiO2 in different proportions. Triton X-100 is added and polyethylene glycol (PEG at 20 wt% is used as a polymer additive. This study tests the particle size and material properties of Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites and measures the photoelectric conversion efficiency and IPCE of DSSCs. Experimental results show that the DSSC prepared by Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites can achieve a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 3.67%. When Ag@TiO2 core-shell-type nanocomposites are mixed with P25 nanoparticles in specific proportions, and when the thickness of the photoelectrode thin film is 28 μm, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can reach 6.06%, with a fill factor of 0.52, open-circuit voltage of 0.64V, and short-circuit density of 18.22 mAcm−2. Compared to the DSSC prepared by P25 TiO2 only, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can be raised by 38% under the proposed approach.

  4. Optical Properties of Plasmon Resonances with Ag/SiO2/Ag Multi-Layer Composite Nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ye-Wan, Ma; Li-Hua, Zhang; Zhao-Wang, Wu; Jie, Zhang

    2010-01-01

    Optical properties of plasmon resonance with Ag/SiO 2 /Ag multi-layer nanoparticles are studied by numerical simulation based on Green's function theory. The results show that compared with single-layer Ag nanoparticles, the multi-layer nanoparticles exhibit several distinctive optical properties, e.g. with increasing the numbers of the multi-layer nanoparticles, the scattering efficiency red shifts, and the intensity of scattering enhances accordingly. It is interesting to find out that slicing an Ag-layer into multi-layers leads to stronger scattering intensity and more 'hot spots' or regions of stronger field enhancement. This property of plasmon resonance of surface Raman scattering has greatly broadened the application scope of Raman spectroscopy. The study of metal surface plasmon resonance characteristics is critical to the further understanding of surface enhanced Raman scattering as well as its applications. (fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications))

  5. Antifungal activity of multifunctional Fe3O4-Ag nanocolloids

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chudasama, Bhupendra; Vala, Anjana K.; Andhariya, Nidhi; Upadhyay, R.V.; Mehta, R.V.

    2011-01-01

    In recent years, rapid increase has been observed in the population of microbes that are resistant to conventionally used antibiotics. Antifungal drug therapy is no exception and now resistance to many of the antifungal agents in use has emerged. Therefore, there is an inevitable and urgent medical need for antibiotics with novel antimicrobial mechanisms. Aspergillus glaucus is the potential cause of fatal brain infections and hypersensitivity pneumonitis in immunocompromised patients and leads to death despite aggressive multidrug antifungal therapy. In the present article, we describe the antifungal activity of multifunctional core-shell Fe 3 O 4 -Ag nanocolloids against A. glaucus isolates. Controlled experiments are also carried out with Ag nanocolloids in order to understand the role of core (Fe 3 O 4 ) in the antifungal action. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of nanocolloids is determined by the micro-dilution method. MIC of A. glaucus is 2000 μg/mL. The result is quite promising and requires further investigations in order to develop a treatment methodology against this death causing fungus in immunocompromised patients. - Research Highlights: →Synthesis of Fe 3 O 4 -Ag core-shell nanocolloids. →Antifungal activity of Fe 3 O 4 -Ag nanocolloids against Aspergillus glaucus isolates. →The MIC value for A. glaucus is 2000 μg/mL. →Antifungal activity is better or comparable with most prominent antibiotics.

  6. Chalcone dendrimer stabilized core-shell nanoparticles—a comparative study on Co@TiO2, Ag@TiO2 and Co@AgCl nanoparticles for antibacterial and antifungal activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vanathi Vijayalakshmi, R.; Praveen Kumar, P.; Selvarani, S.; Rajakumar, P.; Ravichandran, K.

    2017-10-01

    A series of core@shell nanoparticles (Co@TiO2, Ag@TiO2 and Co@AgCl) stabilized with zeroth generation triazolylchalcone dendrimer was synthesized using reduction transmetalation method. The coordination of chalcone dendrimer with silver ions was confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy. The NMR spectrum ensures the number of protons and carbon signals in the chalcone dendrimer. The prepared samples were structurally characterized by XRD, FESEM and HRTEM analysis. The SAED and XRD analyses exhibited the cubic structure with d hkl   =  2.2 Å, 1.9 Å and 1.38 Å. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the dendrimer stabilized core@shell nanoparticles (DSCSNPs) were tested against the pathogens Bacillus subtilis, Proteus mirabilis, Candida albicans and Aspergillus nigir from which it is identified that the dendrimer stabilized core shell nanoparticles with silver ions at the shell (Co@AgCl) shows effectively high activity against the tested pathogen following the other core@shell nanoparticles viz Ag@TiO2 and Co@TiO2.

  7. Synthesis, Characterization and Gas Sensing Properties of Ag@α-Fe2O3 Core–Shell Nanocomposites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ali Mirzaei

    2015-05-01

    Full Text Available Ag@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposite having a core–shell structure was synthesized by a two-step reduction-sol gel approach, including Ag nanoparticles synthesis by sodium borohydride as the reducing agent in a first step and the subsequent mixing with a Fe+3 sol for α-Fe2O3 coating. The synthesized Ag@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposite has been characterized by various techniques, such as SEM, TEM and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The electrical and gas sensing properties of the synthesized composite towards low concentrations of ethanol have been evaluated. The Ag@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposite showed better sensing characteristics than the pure α-Fe2O3. The peculiar hierarchical nano-architecture and the chemical and electronic sensitization effect of Ag nanoparticles in Ag@α-Fe2O3 sensors were postulated to play a key role in modulating gas-sensing properties in comparison to pristine α-Fe2O3 sensors.

  8. One pot synthesis of Ag nanoparticle modified ZnO microspheres in ethylene glycol medium and their enhanced photocatalytic performance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tian Chungui; Li Wei; Pan Kai; Zhang Qi; Tian Guohui; Zhou Wei; Fu Honggang

    2010-01-01

    Ag nanoparticles (NPs) modified ZnO microspheres (Ag/ZnO microspheres) were prepared by a facile one pot strategy in ethylene glycol (EG) medium. The EG played two important roles in the synthesis: it could act as a reaction media for the formation of ZnO and reduce Ag + to Ag 0 . A series of the characterizations indicated the successful combination of Ag NPs with ZnO microspheres. It was shown that Ag modification could greatly enhance the photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO microspheres by taking the photodegradation of Rhodamine B as a model reaction. With appropriate ratio of Ag and ZnO, Ag/ZnO microspheres showed the better photocatalytic performance than commercial Degussa P-25 TiO 2 . Photoluminescence and surface photovoltage spectra demonstrated that Ag modification could effectively inhibit the recombination of the photoinduced electron and holes of ZnO. This is responsible for the higher photocatalytic activity of Ag/ZnO composites. -- Graphical abstract: A 'one-pot' strategy was developed for preparing the Ag/ZnO microspheres in ethylene glycol. The composites exhibited superior photocatalytic performance for photodegradation of Rhodamine B dye in water. Display Omitted

  9. Subsurface Synthesis and Characterization of Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in MgO

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vilayur Ganapathy, Subramanian; Devaraj, Arun; Colby, Robert J.; Pandey, Archana; Varga, Tamas; Shutthanandan, V.; Manandhar, Sandeep; El-Khoury, Patrick Z.; Kayani, Asghar N.; Hess, Wayne P.; Thevuthasan, Suntharampillai

    2013-03-08

    Metal nanoparticles exhibit localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) which is very sensitive to the size and shape of the nanoparticle and the dielectric medium surrounding it. LSPR causes field enhancement near the surface of the nanoparticle making them interesting candidates for plasmonic applications. In particular, partially exposed metallic nanoparticles distributed in a dielectric matrix form hotspots which are prime locations for LSPR spectroscopy and sensing. This study involves synthesizing partially buried Ag nanoparticles in MgO and investigating the characteristics of this material system. Ag nanoparticles of different shapes and size distributions were synthesized below the surface of MgO by implanting 200 keV Ag+ ions followed by annealing at 10000C for 10 and 30 hours. A detailed optical and structural characterization was carried out to understand the evolution of Ag nanoparticle microstructure and size distribution inside the MgO matrix. Micro x-ray diffraction (MicroXRD) was employed to investigate the structural properties and estimate the crystallite size. The nanoparticles evolved from a spherical to faceted morphology with annealing time, assuming an octahedral shape truncated at the (001) planes as seen from aberration corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The nanoparticles embedded in MgO were shown to be pure metallic Ag using atom probe tomography (APT). The nanoparticles were partially exposed to the surface employing plasma etch techniques to remove the overlaying MgO. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed to study the surface morphology and obtain a height distribution for the partially exposed nanoparticles.

  10. Ag nanocrystals anchored CeO{sub 2}/graphene nanocomposite for enhanced supercapacitor applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vanitha, M.; Keerthi [Department of Chemical Engineering, A.C Tech, Anna University, Chennai 600025 (India); Cao, P. [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, The University of Auckland, PB 92019, Auckland 1142 (New Zealand); Balasubramanian, N., E-mail: nbsbala@annauniv.edu [Department of Chemical Engineering, A.C Tech, Anna University, Chennai 600025 (India)

    2015-09-25

    Highlights: • Quasi spherical Ag and CeO{sub 2} nanoparticles were decorated on rGO matrix. • The Ag/CeO{sub 2}/rGO nanocomposite exhibits specific capacitance of 710 F g{sup −1}. • Ag plays an imperative role in improving the electrochemical performance. - Abstract: A novel ternary Ag decorated CeO{sub 2}/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as surface directing agent and was designed as an electrode material for supercapacitors application. The structure and morphology of the nanocomposites were analyzed by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The synergistic effect between the CeO{sub 2} nanoparticles wrapped rGO matrix with Ag nanoparticles gives rise to a nanostructure, empowering the material with enhanced electrochemical performance. The electrochemical characterization was performed using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic studies in 3 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. The nanocomposite electrode materials possess a high specific capacitance of 710.42 F g{sup −1} at an applied current density of 0.2 A g{sup −1}, which was nearly two fold higher than CeO{sub 2}/rGO nanocomposite. This work endows a new route for building Ag/CeO{sub 2}/rGO ternary nanocomposite which will have some impact on the exploitation of novel ternary electrode materials for supercapacitor applications.

  11. Synthesis of spherical Ag/ZnO heterostructural composites with excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light and UV irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Hairui, E-mail: liuhairui1@126.com [College of Physics & Electronics Engineering, Henan Normal University, Henan Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials, Xinxiang 453007 (China); Hu, Yanchun [College of Physics & Electronics Engineering, Henan Normal University, Henan Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials, Xinxiang 453007 (China); Zhang, Zhuxia [Key Laboratory of Interface Science and Engineering in Advanced Materials (Taiyuan University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China); College of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China); Liu, Xuguang [Key Laboratory of Interface Science and Engineering in Advanced Materials (Taiyuan University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China); Jia, Husheng [Key Laboratory of Interface Science and Engineering in Advanced Materials (Taiyuan University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China); College of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China); Xu, Bingshe [Key Laboratory of Interface Science and Engineering in Advanced Materials (Taiyuan University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024 (China)

    2015-11-15

    Graphical abstract: Ag nanoparticles decorated ZnO microspheres heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method, and present enhanced UV and visible light photocatalytic activity, which ascribed to the formation of Schottky barriers in the regions between Ag-NPs and ZnO-MSs and effective electron transfer from plasmon-excited Ag(0) nanoparticles to ZnO-MSs by strong localization of surface plasmonic resonance. - Highlights: • Ag/ZnO microspheres heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method. • Ag/ZnO composites exhibits enhanced visible light and UV light photocatalytic activity. • The UV and visible-light photocatalytic activity sequences are different for Ag/ZnO composites with the increase of Ag content. • The enhanced UV and visible light photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the formation of the Schottky barriers and surface plasmon resonance. - Abstract: Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) decorated ZnO microspheres (ZnO-MSs) heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method. The ZnO-MSs with the diameter about 700 nm was initially prepared by ultrasonic technology. Subsequently, Ag-NPs with a diameter of 20–50 nm were anchored onto the surface of the as-prepared ZnO-MSs by a microwave polyol process. The morphology, structural and optical properties of the as-synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high resolution TEM (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The results show that the surface plasmon absorption band of Ag/ZnO composites is distinctly broadened and the PL intensity of Ag/ZnO heterostructural composites varies with the increase of Ag loading. The photocatalytic activity of the Ag/ZnO composites were evaluated by the degradation of rhodamine B (Rh

  12. Synthesis of spherical Ag/ZnO heterostructural composites with excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light and UV irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Hairui; Hu, Yanchun; Zhang, Zhuxia; Liu, Xuguang; Jia, Husheng; Xu, Bingshe

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Ag nanoparticles decorated ZnO microspheres heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method, and present enhanced UV and visible light photocatalytic activity, which ascribed to the formation of Schottky barriers in the regions between Ag-NPs and ZnO-MSs and effective electron transfer from plasmon-excited Ag(0) nanoparticles to ZnO-MSs by strong localization of surface plasmonic resonance. - Highlights: • Ag/ZnO microspheres heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method. • Ag/ZnO composites exhibits enhanced visible light and UV light photocatalytic activity. • The UV and visible-light photocatalytic activity sequences are different for Ag/ZnO composites with the increase of Ag content. • The enhanced UV and visible light photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the formation of the Schottky barriers and surface plasmon resonance. - Abstract: Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) decorated ZnO microspheres (ZnO-MSs) heterostructural composites were fabricated via a two-step chemical method. The ZnO-MSs with the diameter about 700 nm was initially prepared by ultrasonic technology. Subsequently, Ag-NPs with a diameter of 20–50 nm were anchored onto the surface of the as-prepared ZnO-MSs by a microwave polyol process. The morphology, structural and optical properties of the as-synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high resolution TEM (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The results show that the surface plasmon absorption band of Ag/ZnO composites is distinctly broadened and the PL intensity of Ag/ZnO heterostructural composites varies with the increase of Ag loading. The photocatalytic activity of the Ag/ZnO composites were evaluated by the degradation of rhodamine B (Rh

  13. Ag-Modified In2O3/ZnO Nanobundles with High Formaldehyde Gas-Sensing Performance

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fang Fang

    2015-08-01

    Full Text Available Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles with micro/nano porous structures have been designed and synthesized with by hydrothermal method continuing with dehydration process. Each bundle consists of nanoparticles, where nanogaps of 10–30 nm are present between the nanoparticles, leading to a porous structure. This porous structure brings high surface area and fast gas diffusion, enhancing the gas sensitivity. Consequently, the HCHO gas-sensing performance of the Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles have been tested, with the formaldehyde-detection limit of 100 ppb (parts per billion and the response and recover times as short as 6 s and 3 s, respectively, at 300 °C and the detection limit of 100 ppb, response time of 12 s and recover times of 6 s at 100 °C. The HCHO sensing detect limitation matches the health standard limitation on the concentration of formaldehyde for indoor air. Moreover, the strategy to synthesize the nanobundles is just two-step heating and easy to scale up. Therefore, the Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles are ready for industrialization and practical applications.

  14. Ag-Modified In2O3/ZnO Nanobundles with High Formaldehyde Gas-Sensing Performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fang, Fang; Bai, Lu; Song, Dongsheng; Yang, Hongping; Sun, Xiaoming; Sun, Hongyu; Zhu, Jing

    2015-01-01

    Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles with micro/nano porous structures have been designed and synthesized with by hydrothermal method continuing with dehydration process. Each bundle consists of nanoparticles, where nanogaps of 10–30 nm are present between the nanoparticles, leading to a porous structure. This porous structure brings high surface area and fast gas diffusion, enhancing the gas sensitivity. Consequently, the HCHO gas-sensing performance of the Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles have been tested, with the formaldehyde-detection limit of 100 ppb (parts per billion) and the response and recover times as short as 6 s and 3 s, respectively, at 300 °C and the detection limit of 100 ppb, response time of 12 s and recover times of 6 s at 100 °C. The HCHO sensing detect limitation matches the health standard limitation on the concentration of formaldehyde for indoor air. Moreover, the strategy to synthesize the nanobundles is just two-step heating and easy to scale up. Therefore, the Ag-modified In2O3/ZnO bundles are ready for industrialization and practical applications. PMID:26287205

  15. A bamboo-inspired hierarchical nanoarchitecture of Ag/CuO/TiO{sub 2} nanotube array for highly photocatalytic degradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Xuhong; Wang, Longlu [State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Liu, Chengbin, E-mail: chem_cbliu@hnu.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Ding, Yangbin; Zhang, Shuqu; Zeng, Yunxiong [State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Liu, Yutang, E-mail: liuyutang@126.com [Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082 (China); Luo, Shenglian [State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China)

    2016-08-05

    Highlights: • Bamboo-like architecture of ternary photocatalyst. • High simulated solar light photocatalytic activity. • Integration of p-n heterojunction and Schottky junction. • Excellent stable recycling performance. - Abstract: The optimized geometrical configuration of muitiple active materials into hierarchical nanoarchitecture is essential for the creation of photocatalytic degradation system that can mimic natural photosynthesis. A bamboo-like architecture, CuO nanosheets and Ag nanoparticles co-decorated TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (Ag/CuO/TiO{sub 2}), was fabricated by using simple solution-immersion and electrodeposition process. Under simulated solar light irradiation, the 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) photocatalytic degradation rate over Ag/CuO/TiO{sub 2} was about 2.0, 1.5 and 1.2 times that over TiO{sub 2} nanotubes, CuO/TiO{sub 2} and Ag/TiO{sub 2}, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of ternary Ag/CuO/TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst was ascribed to improved light absorption, reduced carrier recombination and more exposed active sites. Moreover, the excellent stability and reliability of the Ag/CuO/TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst demonstrated a promising application for organic pollutant removal from water.

  16. DNA intercalation studies and antimicrobial activity of Ag@ZrO2 core–shell nanoparticles in vitro

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Dhanalekshmi, K.I.; Meena, K.S.

    2016-01-01

    Ag@ZrO 2 core–shell nanoparticles were prepared by one pot simultaneous reduction of AgNO 3 and hydrolysis of zirconium (IV) isopropoxide. The formation of core–shell nanoparticles was confirmed by absorption, XRD, and HR-TEM techniques. The antibacterial activity of Ag@ZrO 2 core–shell nanoparticles against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and the antifungal properties against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were examined by the agar diffusion method. DNA intercalation studies were carried out in CT-DNA. As a result ZrO 2 supported on the surface of AgNPs not only prevented aggregation, but also proved to have enhanced antimicrobial activity and DNA intercalation than the Ag nanoparticles. - Highlights: • Ag@ZrO 2 core–shell nanoparticles were prepared by one pot synthesis. • The ZrO 2 coated AgNPs prevent aggregation and enhanced stability. • The surfaced modified AgNPs showed higher antimicrobial activity. • DNA intercalation studies show better binding affinity of core–shell NPs.

  17. Novel Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite synthesized by electrochemically active biofilm for nonenzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Khan, Mohammad Mansoob; Ansari, Sajid Ali; Lee, Jintae; Cho, Moo Hwan

    2013-12-01

    A novel nonenzymatic sensor for H2O2 was developed based on an Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite synthesized using a simple and cost effective approach with an electrochemically active biofilm. The optical, structural, morphological and electrochemical properties of the as-prepared Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite were examined by UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite was fabricated on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and their electrochemical performance was analyzed by CV, differential pulse voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The Ag@TiO2 nanocomposite modified GCE (Ag@TiO2/GCE) displayed excellent performance towards H2O2 sensing at -0.73 V in the linear response range from 0.83 μM to 43.3 μM, within a detection limit and sensitivity of 0.83 μM and ~65.2328±0.01 μA μM(-1) cm(-2), respectively. In addition, Ag@TiO2/GCE exhibited good operational reproducibility and long term stability. © 2013.

  18. Facile synthesis and enhanced magnetic, photocatalytic properties of one-dimensional Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jia, Xiaohua, E-mail: xhjia2003@126.com [School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013 (China); Dai, Rongrong; Lian, Dandan; Han, Song [School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013 (China); Wu, Xiangyang, E-mail: wuxy@ujs.edu.cn [School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013 (China); Song, Haojie [Institute of Polymer Materials, School of Materials Science & Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China)

    2017-01-15

    Highlights: • One-dimensional triple heterostructure Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} was successfully achieved by a facile co-precipitation and chemical-solution-deposition process method. • One-dimensional triple heterostructure Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} exhibited enhanced photocatalytic properties and can be easily recovered by an extemal magnetic field. • The mechanisms for the enhanced photocatalytic effect of the heterostructure were discussed. - Abstract: Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} heterostructures were synthesized through co-precipitation method based on TiO{sub 2} nanobelts. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibration sample magnetometry (VSM) were used to characterize the heterostructure nanocomposites. The results of XRD proved that the TiO{sub 2} nanobelt was anatase which was the most suitable crystal form for photocatalysis. SEM and TEM analysis indicated that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were adhere to TiO{sub 2} nanobelts which have one-dimensional structure with 100–200 nm in width. The VSM measurements showed that the photocatalyst can be easily recovered by an extemal magnetic field. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites studies confirm that Ag is in Ag{sup 0} state. Finally, the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) by the obtained magnetic photocatalyst was investigated via UV–vis absorption spectra. The photocatalytic activity of the composites was observed to be lower compared to bare TiO{sub 2} due to the higher degree of recombination reactions after combined with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. After coated the composite of 15% Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} with Ag, the new nanocomposite of Ag@Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-TiO{sub 2} can be easily recovered after photocatalysis by an extemal magnetic field and showed enhanced photocatalytic activity. The mechanisms for the exhibited enhanced photocatalytic effect of

  19. Photocatalytic Decomposition of N2O on Ag-TiO2

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Kočí, K.; Krejčíková, Simona; Šolcová, Olga; Obalová, L.

    2012-01-01

    Roč. 191, č. 1 (2012), s. 134-137 ISSN 0920-5861. [International Symposium on Nitrogen Oxides Emission Abatement. Zakopane, 04.09.2011-07.09.2011] R&D Projects: GA ČR GA104/09/0694 Institutional support: RVO:67985858 Keywords : photocatalytic decomposition * N2O * Ag doping * TiO2 Subject RIV: CF - Physical ; Theoretical Chemistry Impact factor: 2.980, year: 2012

  20. Synthesis, characterization, and thermal stability of SiO2/TiO2/CR-Ag multilayered nanostructures

    Science.gov (United States)

    Díaz, Gabriela; Chang, Yao-Jen; Philipossian, Ara

    2018-06-01

    The controllable synthesis and characterization of novel thermally stable silver-based particles are described. The experimental approach involves the design of thermally stable nanostructures by the deposition of an interfacial thick, active titania layer between the primary substrate (SiO2 particles) and the metal nanoparticles (Ag NPs), as well as the doping of Ag nanoparticles with an organic molecule (Congo Red, CR). The nanostructured particles were composed of a 330-nm silica core capped by a granular titania layer (10 to 13 nm in thickness), along with monodisperse 5 to 30 nm CR-Ag NPs deposited on top. The titania-coated support (SiO2/TiO2 particles) was shown to be chemically and thermally stable and promoted the nucleation and anchoring of CR-Ag NPs, which prevented the sintering of CR-Ag NPs when the structure was exposed to high temperatures. The thermal stability of the silver composites was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Larger than 10 nm CR-Ag NPs were thermally stable up to 300 °C. Such temperature was high enough to destabilize the CR-Ag NPs due to the melting point of the CR. On the other hand, smaller than 10 nm Ag NPs were stable at temperatures up to 500 °C because of the strong metal-metal oxide binding energy. Energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was carried out to qualitatively analyze the chemical stability of the structure at different temperatures which confirmed the stability of the structure and the existence of silver NPs at temperatures up to 500 °C.

  1. Nano-composite powders Ag-SnO2 prepared by reactive milling sintering and microstructural evolution

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lorrain, Nathalie

    2000-01-01

    This work aims at controlling the synthesis and the sintering of nano-composite powders Ag-SnO 2 in order to obtain a dense and nano-structured material for electrical contact as a substitute of the toxic compound Ag - CdO. The powder is prepared by reactive milling from silver oxide (Ag 2 O) and silver bronze (Ag 3 Sn) powders. This process leads to a fine dispersion of silver and tin oxide nanometer sized particles. We first studied the mechanisms of reaction promoted by milling in vacuum and in air. A two-stage oxidation of tin in Ag 3 Sn occurs: during forced contact with Ag 2 O, tin oxidises in SnO, then in SnO 2 . In air, gaseous oxygen also participates to the oxidation of tin in SnO 2 but the reaction is slower because of the formation of silver carbonates from a reaction of Ag 2 O with CO 2 .Then the sintering behaviour of the nano-composite powder as a function of the compacting pressure and of the heating rate has been studied. We show: (i) a diffusion of pure silver towards porosity and free surfaces (exo-diffusion) which destroys the nano-structure and (ii) a severe de-densification. We show that the origin of these phenomena is due to carbonates on to the Ag 2 O starting powder, which are incorporated, in the milled Ag-SnO 2 powder in course of milling; during sintering, decomposition gases generate internal stresses. Low stresses lead to a diffusional creep with exo-diffusion whereas high stresses induce an intensive de-densification by local plastic deformation but no exo-diffusion. A modelling shows that exo-diffusion is limited by heating very quickly a strongly compacted powder that contains a high quantity of carbonates. The experimental results confirm the predictions of the model. Finally, we propose solutions allowing a full densification and a process for decreasing the tin oxide concentration. (author) [fr

  2. Fast detoxication of 2-chloro ethyl ethyl sulfide by p-type Ag_2O semiconductor nanoparticle-loaded Al_2O_3-based supports

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ma, Meng-Wei; Kuo, Dong-Hau

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Detoxication of CWA surrogate of 2-chloro ethyl ethyl sulfide is investigated. • A small amount of Ag_2O on Al_2O_3-base support is sufficient to degrade 2-CEES. • Detoxication conversion >82% in 15 min is achieved for >2.5% Ag_2O/Na_2SiO_3/Al_2O_3. • Na_2SiO_3 modified Al_2O_3 to have the valley-like line pattern for depositing Ag_2O. • 2-CEES oxidation is initiated from the dominant electronic holes in p-type Ag_2O. - Abstract: p-type Ag_2O semiconductor nanoparticle-loaded Al_2O_3 or Na_2SiO_3/Al_2O_3 powders used for detoxicating the surrogate of sulfur mustard of 2-chloro ethyl ethyl sulfide (C_2H_5SCH_2CH_2Cl, 2-CEES) were investigated. Different amounts of Ag_2O and Na_2SiO_3 on catalyst supports were evaluated. Gas chromatography with a pulsed flame photometric detector (GC–PFPD) and gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) were used to monitor and identify the catalytic reactions, together with reaction products analysis. The GC analyses showed that the decontamination of 2-CEES in isopropanol solvent for 15 min was above 82% efficiency for the 0.5% Na_2SiO_3/Al_2O_3 support deposited with a Ag_2O content above 2.5%. 2-(ethylthio)ethanol and 2-(ethylthio)ethanoic acid were identified as the major products after catalytic reactions. The electronic holes dominating in p-type Ag_2O is proposed to provide the key component and to initiate the catalytic reactions. The electronic hole-based detoxication mechanism is proposed.

  3. Photoelectrocatalytic properties of Ag nanoparticles loaded TiO2 nanotube arrays prepared by pulse current deposition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xie Kunpeng; Sun Lan; Wang Chenglin; Lai Yuekun; Wang Mengye; Chen Hongbo; Lin Changjian

    2010-01-01

    A pulse current deposition technique was adopted to construct highly dispersed Ag nanoparticles on TiO 2 nanotube arrays which were prepared by the electrochemical anodization. The morphology, crystallinity, elemental composition, and UV-vis absorption of Ag/TiO 2 nanotube arrays were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS). In particular, the photoelectrochemical properties and photoelectrocatalytic activity under UV light irradiation and the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation for newly synthesized Ag/TiO 2 nanotube arrays were investigated. The maximum incident photon to charge carrier efficiency (IPCE) value of Ag/TiO 2 nanotube arrays was 51%, much higher than that of pure TiO 2 nanotube arrays. Ag/TiO 2 nanotube arrays exhibited higher photocatalytic activities than the pure TiO 2 nanotube arrays under both UV and visible light irradiation. The photoelectrocatalytic activity of Ag/TiO 2 nanotube arrays under UV light irradiation was 1.6-fold enhancement compared with pure TiO 2 nanotube arrays. This approach can be used in synthesizing various metal-loaded nanotube arrays materials.

  4. Gamma radiation effects on nano composites of Ag nanoparticles in Zn O matrices

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Villasenor C, L. S.

    2015-01-01

    The study of gamma radiation effects in nano composites of silver nanoparticles in a Zn O matrix has been performed in this work. First, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by colloidal methods, with two different mean average sizes, 48 nm and 24 nm respectively. These nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (Tem) and UV-Vis spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Then, with the synthesized AgNPs, nano composites in a matrix of Zn O were prepared. The first nano composite was prepared with the 48 nm AgNPs at 9.5 weight % of silver (Ag) and the second nano composite with the 24 nm nanoparticles at 1.0 weight % of Ag. Both nano composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (Sem). The formation of the Zn O phase in the nano composite was corroborated through X-ray diffraction analysis. It was observed that the presence of AgNPs during the formation of the AgNPs/Zn O nano composite modified the size and morphology of the structures obtained compared to those of the pure Zn O without nanoparticles, however both exhibit a radial structure. Then, the nano composite at 9.5 weight % of Ag was irradiated with gamma rays at doses of 1, 20 and 50 kGy. Samples were analyzed by Sem and the Bet technique, before and after being irradiated, in order to determine the effect of gamma radiation in the morphology, porosity and surface area of the studied material. Even when there are changes in porosity and Surface area, this difference is not very significant for some applications, however it will have to be considered during the design of a specific application of the nano composites. On the other hand, no morphology modifications were identified on the samples irradiated at the studied doses, with the electron microscopy techniques used. (Author)

  5. In situ controllable synthesis of novel surface plasmon resonance-enhanced Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} composite for enhanced and stable visible light photocatalyst

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lv, Jiali [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000 (China); Dai, Kai, E-mail: daikai940@chnu.edu.cn [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000 (China); Zhang, Jinfeng [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000 (China); Lu, Luhua, E-mail: lhlu@cug.edu.cn [Engineering Research Center of Nano-Geomaterials of Ministry of Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074 (China); Liang, Changhao, E-mail: chliang@issp.ac.cn [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000 (China); Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 23003 (China); Geng, Lei; Wang, Zhongliao; Yuan, Guangyu; Zhu, Guangping [College of Physics and Electronic Information, Huaibei Normal University, Huaibei 235000 (China)

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Novel Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} ternary photocatalyst was prepared. • Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} showed enhanced catalytic activity. • Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} showed long reusable life. - Abstract: A novel hierarchical Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} ternary visible-light-driven photocatalyst was successfully synthesized by in situ doping Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4} with Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} nanosheets through a facile hydrothermal and photochemical process. The morphology, structure, optical performance and crystallinity of the products were measured by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag was uniformly dispersed on the surface of Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} nanosheets. The photocatalytic performance of Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} heterostructures was evaluated by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under 410 nm LED arrays. The ternary Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} nanocomposite exhibits higher photocatalytic activity than Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} and Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}. The synergistic effect of Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4} and Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} could generated more heterojunctions which promoted photoelectrons transfer from Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4} to Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6}, leading to the improvement of photocatalytic performance by photoelectrons-holes recombination suppression. At the same time, the surface plasmon resonance of Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}/Ag/Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} is another crucial reason for the high photocatalytic performance of organic pollutants degradation. And the 20 wt% Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4}-loaded Bi{sub 2}MoO{sub 6} shows the optimal photocatalytic performance in the degradation of MB. In addition, the ternary composites can be easily reclaimed by precipitation and exhibits high stability of photocatalytic

  6. A new method of preparation of AgBr/TiO{sub 2} composites and investigation of their photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xing Yangyang; Li Rui; Li Qiuye, E-mail: lqybys@yahoo.com.cn; Yang Jianjun [Henan University, Key Laboratory for Special Functional Materials (China)

    2012-12-15

    Silver bromide/titanium dioxide composites were first prepared using titanic acid nanobelts (TAN) as the TiO{sub 2} source. First, TAN reacted with AgNO{sub 3} to prepare Ag-incorporated TAN by the ion-exchange method, and then AgBr/TAN was obtained after adding NaBr. Finally, AgBr/TAN was transformed to AgBr/TiO{sub 2} composites by calcination. The post-treated calcination would not only convert TAN to TiO{sub 2} (H{sub 2}Ti{sub 2}O{sub 4}(OH){sub 2} {yields} 2H{sub 2}O + 2TiO{sub 2}), but also increase the effective contact between AgBr and TiO{sub 2}, further to improve the separation of photo-generated electron-holes. The advantage of this preparation method is the small particle size (ca. 10-20 nm) and well dispersion of AgBr on the surface of TiO{sub 2}, and close contact between AgBr and TiO{sub 2}. The effect of the different calcination temperature on the morphology, structure, and properties of AgBr/TiO{sub 2} composites was investigated in detail. The AgBr/TiO{sub 2} composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-Vis DRS). Comparing with pure TAN, AgBr, and AgBr/P25 mixture, the AgBr/TiO{sub 2} composites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity in decomposition of methyl orange (MO) under visible light irradiation.

  7. Interfacial potential approach for Ag/ZnO (0001) interfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Song Hong-Quan; Shen Jiang; Qian Ping; Chen Nan-Xian

    2014-01-01

    Systematic approaches are presented to extract the interfacial potentials from the ab initio adhesive energy of the interface system by using the Chen—Möbius inversion method. We focus on the interface structure of the metal (111)/ZnO (0001) in this work. The interfacial potentials of Ag—Zn and Ag—O are obtained. These potentials can be used to solve some problems about Ag/ZnO interfacial structure. Three metastable interfacial structures are investigated in order to check these potentials. Using the interfacial potentials we study the procedure of interface fracture in the Ag/ZnO (0001) interface and discuss the change of the energy, stress, and atomic structures in tensile process. The result indicates that the exact misfit dislocation reduces the total energy and softens the fracture process. Meanwhile, the formation and mobility of the vacancy near the interface are observed. (condensed matter: structural, mechanical, and thermal properties)

  8. Subsurface synthesis and characterization of Ag nanoparticles embedded in MgO

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vilayurganapathy, S.; Devaraj, A.; Colby, R.; Pandey, A.; Varga, T.; Shutthanandan, V.; Manandhar, S.; El-Khoury, P. Z.; Kayani, Asghar; Hess, W. P.; Thevuthasan, S.

    2013-03-01

    Metal nanoparticles exhibit a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) which is very sensitive to the size and shape of the nanoparticle and the surrounding dielectric medium. The coupling between the electromagnetic radiation and the localized surface plasmon in metallic nanoparticles results in a sizable enhancement of the incident fields, making them possible candidates for plasmonic applications. In particular, partially exposed metallic nanoparticles distributed in a dielectric matrix can provide prime locations for LSPR spectroscopy and sensing. We report the synthesis and characterization of a plasmonic substrate consisting of Ag nanoparticles partially buried in MgO. Ag nanoparticles of different shapes and size distributions were synthesized below the surface of MgO by implanting 200 keV Ag+ ions followed by annealing at 1000 °C for 10 and 30 h. A detailed optical and structural characterization was carried out to understand the evolution of the Ag nanoparticle and size distribution inside the MgO matrix. Micro x-ray diffraction (Micro-XRD) was employed to investigate the structural properties and estimate the crystallite size. The nanoparticles evolved from a spherical to a faceted morphology with annealing time, assuming an octahedral shape truncated at the (001) planes, as visualized from aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The nanoparticles embedded in MgO were shown to be pure metallic Ag using atom probe tomography (APT). The nanoparticles were partially exposed to the surface by employing plasma etch techniques to remove the overlaying MgO. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed to study the surface morphology and obtain a height distribution for the partially exposed nanoparticles.

  9. Subsurface synthesis and characterization of Ag nanoparticles embedded in MgO

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Vilayurganapathy, S; Devaraj, A; Colby, R; Pandey, A; Varga, T; Shutthanandan, V; Manandhar, S; Thevuthasan, S; El-Khoury, P Z; Hess, W P; Kayani, Asghar

    2013-01-01

    Metal nanoparticles exhibit a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) which is very sensitive to the size and shape of the nanoparticle and the surrounding dielectric medium. The coupling between the electromagnetic radiation and the localized surface plasmon in metallic nanoparticles results in a sizable enhancement of the incident fields, making them possible candidates for plasmonic applications. In particular, partially exposed metallic nanoparticles distributed in a dielectric matrix can provide prime locations for LSPR spectroscopy and sensing. We report the synthesis and characterization of a plasmonic substrate consisting of Ag nanoparticles partially buried in MgO. Ag nanoparticles of different shapes and size distributions were synthesized below the surface of MgO by implanting 200 keV Ag + ions followed by annealing at 1000 °C for 10 and 30 h. A detailed optical and structural characterization was carried out to understand the evolution of the Ag nanoparticle and size distribution inside the MgO matrix. Micro x-ray diffraction (Micro-XRD) was employed to investigate the structural properties and estimate the crystallite size. The nanoparticles evolved from a spherical to a faceted morphology with annealing time, assuming an octahedral shape truncated at the (001) planes, as visualized from aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The nanoparticles embedded in MgO were shown to be pure metallic Ag using atom probe tomography (APT). The nanoparticles were partially exposed to the surface by employing plasma etch techniques to remove the overlaying MgO. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed to study the surface morphology and obtain a height distribution for the partially exposed nanoparticles. (paper)

  10. Antimicrobial activity of TiO{sub 2}:Ag nanocrystalline heterostructures: Experimental and theoretical insights

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    André, Rafaela S. [UFSCar – Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Department of Chemistry, 13565-905 São Carlos, SP (Brazil); Zamperini, Camila A. [UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Química, 14801-907 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Mima, Ewerton G. [UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, Escola de Odontologia de Araraquara, Departamento de Materias Odontológicos e Próteses Dentárias, 14801-903 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Longo, Valéria M., E-mail: valeria.longo@liec.ufscar.br [USP – Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, 13560-970 São Carlos, SP (Brazil); Albuquerque, Anderson R. [UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, Grupo de Modelagem e Simulação Molecular, P.O. Box 477, CEP 17033-360 Bauru, SP (Brazil); Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Sertão Pernambucano, IFSetão-PE, 56400-000 Floresta, PE (Brazil); Sambrano, Júlio R. [UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, Grupo de Modelagem e Simulação Molecular, P.O. Box 477, CEP 17033-360 Bauru, SP (Brazil); and others

    2015-09-28

    Highlights: • Greener hydrothermal process to obtain nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} anatase with Ag nanoparticles. • Antifungal effect against planktonic cells of C. albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. • DFT calculations of anatase TiO{sub 2} and metallic Ag. • Mechanism for the formation of reactive species at surface. - Abstract: We report the synthesis and characterization of silver-decorated titanium dioxide (TiO{sub 2}:Ag) nanoparticles, as well as a discussion of their antimicrobial activity. This material was synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment and characterized by complementary techniques. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration of TiO{sub 2}:Ag nanoparticles against planktonic and biofilm-forming strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Candida species (spp.) and the total biofilm mass were determined. The basis of the biological activity of TiO{sub 2}:Ag was investigated by electronic analysis of the material using theoretical quantum chemical calculations. In the proposed mechanism of action, the impregnated semiconductor donates electrons to the forbidden band gaps in the metal, generating point defects, with partially located electrons and holes at the surface, initiating a radical process involving the solvent and biological target. Our results suggest that this TiO{sub 2}:Ag nanomaterial has potential for use in the development of new therapeutic agents.

  11. An experimental investigation of ionic transport properties in CuI-Ag2WO4 and CuI-Ag2CrO4 mixed systems

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Suthanthiraraj, S. Austin; Premchand, Y. Daniel

    2004-01-01

    The phenomenon of ionic transport in the case of two different mixed systems (CuI) (1-x) -(Ag 2 WO 4 ) x (0.15= (1-y) -(Ag 2 CrO 4 ) y (0.15= -3 Scm -1 for the composition (CuI) 0.45 -(Ag 2 WO 4 ) 0.55 and 1.1x10 -4 Scm -1 in the case of (CuI) 0.55 -(Ag 2 CrO 4 ) 0.45 at room temperature has been discussed in terms of the observed characteristics

  12. Atom beam sputtered Ag-TiO{sub 2} plasmonic nanocomposite thin films for photocatalytic applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Singh, Jaspal; Sahu, Kavita [School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka, NewDelhi 110078 (India); Pandey, A. [Solid State Physics Laboratory, Defence Research and Development Organization, Timarpur, Delhi 110054 (India); Kumar, Mohit [Institute of Physics, Sachivalaya Marg, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751005 (India); Ghosh, Tapas; Satpati, B. [Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, HBNI, 1/AF, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700064 (India); Som, T.; Varma, S. [Institute of Physics, Sachivalaya Marg, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751005 (India); Avasthi, D.K. [Amity Institute of Nanotechnology, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh (India); Mohapatra, Satyabrata, E-mail: smiuac@gmail.com [School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka, NewDelhi 110078 (India)

    2017-07-31

    The development of nanocomposite coatings with highly enhanced photocatalytic activity is important for photocatalytic purification of water and air. We report on the synthesis of Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite thin films with highly enhanced photocatalytic activity by atom beam co-sputtering technique. The effects of Ag concentration on the structural, morphological, optical, plasmonic and photocatalytic properties of the nanocomposite thin films were investigated. UV–visible DRS studies revealed the presence of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak characteristic of Ag nanoparticles together with the excitonic absorption peak originating from TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles in the nanocomposites. XRD studies showed that the nanocomposite thin films consist of Ag nanoparticles and rutile TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. The synthesized Ag-TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite thin films with 5 at% Ag were found to exhibit highly enhanced photocatalytic activity for sun light driven photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue in water, indicating their potential application in water purification.

  13. Photocatalytic performances and activities of Ag-doped CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhu, Zhengru, E-mail: zhengruzhu@gmail.com [Research Center of Hydrology and Water Source, School of Urban and Environment, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116029 (China); State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024 (China); Li, Xinyong; Zhao, Qidong [State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemical, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024 (China); Li, Yonghua; Sun, Caizhi; Cao, Yongqiang [Research Center of Hydrology and Water Source, School of Urban and Environment, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, 116029 (China)

    2013-08-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocrystals were synthesized by a co-precipitation method. • Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} catalyst was prepared by the wetness impregnation strategy. • The structural properties of Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} were investigated by XRD, TEM, DRS, and XPS techniques. • Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} has higher photocatalytic activity. - Abstract: In this work, CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were synthesized by a chemical co-precipitation route. The Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} catalyst was prepared based on the CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles by the incipient wetness impregnation strategy, which showed excellent photoelectric property and catalytic activity. The structural properties of these samples were systematically investigated by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) techniques. The photo-induced charge separation in the samples was demonstrated by surface photovoltage (SPV) measurement. The photocatalytic degradation of 4-CP by the Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} and CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} samples were comparatively studied under xenon lamp irradiation. The results indicate that the Ag/CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} sample exhibited the higher efficiency for the degradation of 4-CP.

  14. Magnetic and optical properties of Ag@SiO{sub 2}-FITC-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} hybrid nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sui, Ning [Université de Lyon, Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon–INL, UMR CNRS 5270, Site Ecole Centrale de Lyon, 36 Avenue Guy de Collongue, F-69134 Ecully Cedex (France); College of Material Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042 (China); Monnier, Virginie, E-mail: virginie.monnier@ec-lyon.fr [Université de Lyon, Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon–INL, UMR CNRS 5270, Site Ecole Centrale de Lyon, 36 Avenue Guy de Collongue, F-69134 Ecully Cedex (France); Salvia, Marie-Virginie; Chevolot, Yann; Souteyrand, Eliane [Université de Lyon, Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon–INL, UMR CNRS 5270, Site Ecole Centrale de Lyon, 36 Avenue Guy de Collongue, F-69134 Ecully Cedex (France)

    2014-03-15

    Highlights: • New magnetic/fluorescent nanoparticles were synthesized. • The silver core led to a maximum 4-fold enhanced fluorescence of fluorophore. • Maximum enhancement factor was obtained when metal-fluorophore distance is 5 nm. • Magnetism and fluorescence appeared simultaneously for nanoparticles in solution. -- Abstract: Nanoparticles composed of a silver core coated with a silica shell (Ag@SiO{sub 2}) were prepared. A dye, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), was further encapsulated during the growth of a second silica shell onto Ag@SiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. The proximity of silver nanoparticles led to a 4-fold maximal enhancement in the fluorescence of FITC when the first silica shell thickness was set at 5 nm. After amino-functionalization of Ag@SiO{sub 2}-FITC nanoparticles, iron oxide nanoparticles were bonded to their surface. The magnetic and metal-enhanced fluorescence properties appeared simultaneously when Ag@SiO{sub 2}-FITC-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} hybrid nanoparticles were dispersed in a solution.

  15. The effect of Fe segregation on the photocatalytic growth of Ag nanoparticles on rutile TiO{sub 2}(001)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Busiakiewicz, Adam, E-mail: adambus@uni.lodz.pl [University of Lodz, Faculty of Physics and Applied Informatics, Department of Solid State Physics, Pomorska 149/153, 90-236, Łódź (Poland); Kisielewska, Aneta; Piwoński, Ireneusz [University of Lodz, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Materials Technology and Chemistry, Pomorska 163, 90-236, Łódź (Poland); Batory, Damian [Lodz University of Technology, Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Stefanowskiego 1/15, 90-924, Łódź (Poland)

    2017-04-15

    Highlights: • Ag nanoparticles are grown photochemically on TiO{sub 2}(001). • Pristine TiO{sub 2}(001) and Fe/TiO{sub 2}(001) are compared. • The presence of segregated Fe strongly affects the growth Ag nanoparticles. • Abundant amount of Fe suppresses photocatalytic synthesis of AgNPs on TiO{sub 2}(001). - Abstract: The photocatalytic growth of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on rutile TiO{sub 2}(001) and Fe-modified rutile TiO{sub 2}(001) monocrystals was investigated. Various amount of Fe was segregated in a controlled way from the doped TiO{sub 2} substrates in ultra-high vacuum conditions resulting in low- medium- and high- content of Fe on TiO{sub 2} substrates. AgNPs were grown on pristine TiO{sub 2} and substrates containing Fe by photoreduction of Ag{sup +} ions under UV illumination. It was found that the size of AgNPs was larger on Fe/TiO{sub 2} than on TiO{sub 2} while the surface density exhibited the opposite behavior – a large number of AgNPs were present on the TiO{sub 2} surface but only a few AgNPs were visible on the Fe/TiO{sub 2} substrates. The reason for the differences in size and number of AgNPs on TiO{sub 2} and Fe/TiO{sub 2} is the limited access of Ag{sup +} to the TiO{sub 2} surface caused by the large number of Fe grains segregated onto the TiO{sub 2} surface. Another possible reason for the various AgNPs morphologies is alteration in the mechanism of Ag{sup +} photoreduction caused by iron present as Fe{sup 3+} ions and by newly formed AgNPs playing the role of electron traps. The surface elemental analysis of the investigated materials was performed with the use of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and confirmed the composition of AgNPs/Fe/TiO{sub 2} systems. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed sizes, morphology and distribution of the nanostructures.

  16. Photocatalytic activity of Ag3PO4 nanoparticle/TiO2 nanobelt heterostructures

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liu, Ruoyu; Hu, Peiguang; Chen, Shaowei

    2012-10-01

    Heterostructures based on Ag3PO4 nanoparticles and TiO2 nanobelts were prepared by a coprecipitation method. The crystalline structures were characterized by X-ray diffraction measurements. Electron microscopic studies showed that the Ag3PO4 nanoparticles and TiO2 nanobelts were in intimate contact which might be exploited to facilitate charge transfer between the two semiconductor materials. In fact, the heterostructures exhibited markedly enhanced photocatalytic activity as compared with unmodified TiO2 nanobelts or commercial TiO2 colloids in the photodegradation of methyl orange under UV irradiation. This was accounted for by the improved efficiency of interfacial charge separation thanks to the unique alignments of their band structures. Remarkably, whereas the photocatalytic activity of the heterostructure was comparable to that of Ag3PO4 nanoparticles alone, the heterostructures exhibited significantly better stability and reusability in repeated tests than the Ag3PO4 nanoparticles.

  17. Synthesis of unidirectional structures of SiO2-Ag using Au nanoparticles as nucleation centers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Villa S, G.; Mendoza A, D.; Gutierrez W, C.; Perez H, R.

    2008-01-01

    This paper reports a method to synthesize Ag unidirectional structures covered with SiO 2 by sol-gel technique using Au nanoparticles as nucleation centers of the unidirectional structures. In the first phase unidirectional structures of SiO 2 -Ag CI are obtained by sol-gel, using TEOS as a precursor of metallic structures (Ag) and the incorporation of Au nanoparticles as nucleation centers for growth of unidirectional structures. In the second stage, one-way systems are subjected to thermal treatment in H 2 atmosphere for obtain AG 0 particles through mechanisms that diffusion and coalescence of silver to form structures that have a thin cover of SiO 2 . Analysis by scanning electron microscopy, transmission and atomic force microscopy allowed to determine the chemical composition and microstructural properties of unidirectional systems SiO 2 -Ag. (Author)

  18. Star-shaped ZnO/Ag hybrid nanostructures for enhanced photocatalysis and antibacterial activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Andrade, George R.S., E-mail: grsandrade@hotmail.com [Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE (Brazil); Nascimento, Cristiane C. [Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE (Brazil); Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Sergipe, Glória Campus, Nossa Senhora da Glória, SE (Brazil); Lima, Zenon M. [Postgraduate Program in Industrial Biochemistry, Tiradentes University, Aracaju, SE (Brazil); Teixeira-Neto, Erico [LNNano − Brazilian Nanotechnology National Laboratory, Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Costa, Luiz P. [Postgraduate Program in Industrial Biochemistry, Tiradentes University, Aracaju, SE (Brazil); ITPS − Technological and Research Institute of Sergipe, Aracaju, SE (Brazil); Gimenez, Iara F. [Postgraduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE (Brazil); Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE (Brazil)

    2017-03-31

    Highlights: • A new and simple one-pot method for preparing star-shaped ZnO particles was reported. • ZnO particles were decorated with Ag nanoparticles (SNPs) by a photodeposition method. • The presence of SNC{sup −} ions on ZnO surface prevented uncontrollable growth of SNPs. • ZnO/Ag particles showed plasmon-enhanced photocatalytic activity toward an AZO dye. • SNP improved 16 times the antibacterial activity of ZnO toward 4 bacterial strains. - Abstract: Zinc oxide (ZnO) particles with a star-shaped morphology have been synthesized by a novel and simple room-temperature method and decorated with silver nanoparticles (SNPs) for enhanced photocatalysis and bactericide applications. The presence of thiourea during the precipitation of ZnO in alkaline conditions allowed the control of morphological features (e.g. average size and shape) and the surface functionalization with thiocyanate ions (SCN{sup −}). SNPs were deposited into the ZnO surface by a photoreduction method and their sizes could be easily controlled by changing the ZnO/AgNO{sub 3} ratio. The presence of SCN{sup −} on the semiconductor surface prevents uncontrollable growth of Ag nanoparticles into different morphologies and high degrees of polydispersity. XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, UV-vis-NIR and PL were employed for characterizing the structure, morphology and optical properties of the as-obtained pure and hybrid nanostructures. Finally, the hybrid ZnO/Ag particles have shown plasmon-enhanced performance for applications in photocatalysis and antibacterial activity compared to the pure ZnO counterpart. In this work, evaluation of the photodegradation of an aqueous methylene blue solution under UV-A irradiation and the antibacterial activity toward 4 bacterial strains, including Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 43300, ATCC 25923 and ATCC 33591) and Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853).

  19. Characterization of silver colloids formed in LiBbO3 by Ag and O implantation at room and elevated temperatures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Williams, E.K.; Ila, D.; Darwish, A.; Poker, D.B.; Sarkisov, S.S.; Curley, M.J.; Wang, J.-C.; Svetchnikov, V.L.; Zandbergen, H.W.

    1999-01-01

    To address the issue of dispersion of Ag colloids in LiNbO 3 at heat treatment temperatures of 400-500 deg. C, Ag and O were implanted at energies of 160 and 35 keV, respectively, at room temperature (Rt) and at 500 deg. C. Fluences were 4x10 16 and 8x10 16 /cm 2 and the order of the Ag and O implants was varied. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectra indicated that only O followed by Ag implantation of 500 deg. C produced silver oxide. Optical absorption spectrometry and RBS showed significant differences in the dispersion of the colloids with implant temperature and implant order. Implantation of Ag at 1.5 MeV to a fluence of 2x10 16 /cm 2 followed by heat treatment at 500 deg. C for 1 h produced nonlinear optical waveguides with a nonlinear index of the order of 10 -10 cm 2 /W at 532 nm

  20. Novel Flexible Transparent Conductive Films with Enhanced Chemical and Electromechanical Sustainability: TiO2 Nanosheet-Ag Nanowire Hybrid.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sohn, Hiesang; Kim, Seyun; Shin, Weonho; Lee, Jong Min; Lee, Hyangsook; Yun, Dong-Jin; Moon, Kyoung-Seok; Han, In Taek; Kwak, Chan; Hwang, Seong-Ju

    2018-01-24

    Flexible transparent conductive films (TCFs) of TiO 2 nanosheet (TiO 2 NS) and silver nanowire (Ag NW) network hybrid were prepared through a simple and scalable solution-based process. The as-formed TiO 2 NS-Ag NW hybrid TCF shows a high optical transmittance (TT: 97% (90.2% including plastic substrate)) and low sheet resistance (R s : 40 Ω/sq). In addition, the TiO 2 NS-Ag NW hybrid TCF exhibits a long-time chemical/aging and electromechanical stability. As for the chemical/aging stability, the hybrid TCF of Ag NW and TiO 2 NS reveals a retained initial conductivity (ΔR s /R s 4000%) or RuO 2 NS-Ag NW hybrid (ΔR s /R s > 200%). As corroborated by the density functional theory simulation, the superb chemical stability of TiO 2 NS-Ag NW hybrid is attributable to the unique role of TiO 2 NS as a barrier, which prevents Ag NW's chemical corrosion via the attenuated adsorption of sulfidation molecules (H 2 S) on TiO 2 NS. With respect to the electromechanical stability, in contrast to Ag NWs (ΔR/R 0 ∼ 152.9%), our hybrid TCF shows a limited increment of fractional resistivity (ΔR/R 0 ∼ 14.4%) after 200 000 cycles of the 1R bending test (strain: 6.7%) owing to mechanically welded Ag NW networks by TiO 2 NS. Overall, our unique hybrid of TiO 2 NS and Ag NW exhibits excellent electrical/optical properties and reliable chemical/electromechanical stabilities.

  1. Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange on Bi2O3 and Ag2O-Bi2O3 Nano Photocatalysts

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Seyed Ali Hosseini

    2017-04-01

    Full Text Available The photocatalytic activity of Bi2O3 and Ag2O-Bi2O3 was evaluated by degradation of aqueous methyl orange as a model dye effluent. Bi2O3 was synthesized using chemical precipitation method. Structural analysis revealed that Bi2O3 contain a unique well-crystallized phase and the average crystallite size of 22.4 nm. The SEM analysis showed that the size of Bi2O3 particles was mainly in the range of 16-22 nm. The most important variables affecting the photocatalytic degradation of dyes, namely reaction time, initial pH and catalyst dosage were studied, and their optimal amounts were found at 60 min, 5.58 and 0.025 g, respectively. A good correlation was found between experimental and predicted responses, confirming the reliability of the model. Incorporation of Ag2O in the structure of composite caused decreasing band gap and its response to visible light. Because a high percentage of sunlight is visible light, hence Ag2O-Bi2O3 nano-composite could be used as an efficient visible light driven photocatalyst for degradation of dye effluents by sunlight. Copyright © 2017 BCREC GROUP. All rights reserved Received: 15th August 2016; Revised: 20th December 2016; Accepted: 21st December 2016 How to Cite: Hosseini, S.A., Saeedi, R. (2017. Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange on Bi2O3 and Ag2O-Bi2O3 Nano Photocatalysts. Bulletin of Chemical Reaction Engineering & Catalysis, 12 (1: 96-105 (doi:10.9767/bcrec.12.1.623.96-105 Permalink/DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.9767/bcrec.12.1.623.96-105

  2. Photoelectrochemical Performances and Potential Applications of TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Modified with Ag and Pt Nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, Guangqing; Liu, Haipeng; Wang, Jinwen; Lv, Jun; Zheng, Zhixiang; Wu, Yucheng

    2014-01-01

    TiO 2 nanotube arrays (NTAs) modified with Ag (Ag/TiO 2 ) and Pt (Pt/TiO 2 ) nanoparticles were fabricated by anodic oxidation combined with photoreduction and hydrothermal methods, respectively. Structures, element components and morphologies of TiO 2 , Ag/TiO 2 and Pt/TiO 2 NTAs were measured by X-ray diffraction diffractometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The photoeletrochemical performances of TiO 2 , Pt/TiO 2 and Ag/TiO 2 NTAs were characterized by cyclic voltammetry and amperometry in phosphate buffer solution in absence and presence of glucose. Modifications of Ag and Pt nanoparticles play different roles in the photoelectrochemical process and have different potential applications. Ag nanoparticles decrease the photocurrent in buffer solution but increase the photocurrent response to organic compounds, which is fit for electrochemical detection of organic compounds due to the low background photocurrent and high photocurrent response. Ag/TiO 2 NTAs achieve the best detection performance with sensitivity of 0.152 μA/μM and detection limit of 0.53 μM. On the contrary, Pt nanoparticles can enhance the photocurrent of TiO 2 NTAs in buffer solution but decrease the photocurrent response to organic compounds, which are benefit for photocatalytic water splitting but not for photoelectrochemical detection

  3. Strain Distribution of Au and Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in Al2O3 Thin Film

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Honghua Huang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in amorphous Al2O3 matrix are fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD method and rapid thermal annealing (RTA technique, which are confirmed by the experimental high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM results, respectively. The strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in the Al2O3 matrix is investigated by the finite-element (FE calculations. The simulation results clearly indicate that both the Au and Ag nanoparticles incur compressive strain by the Al2O3 matrix. However, the compressive strain existing on the Au nanoparticle is much weaker than that on the Ag nanoparticle. This phenomenon can be attributed to the reason that Young’s modulus of Au is larger than that of Ag. This different strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles in the same host matrix may have a significant influence on the technological potential applications of the Au-Ag alloy nanoparticles.

  4. DNA intercalation studies and antimicrobial activity of Ag@ZrO{sub 2} core–shell nanoparticles in vitro

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dhanalekshmi, K.I., E-mail: dhanamveni88@gmail.com; Meena, K.S.

    2016-02-01

    Ag@ZrO{sub 2} core–shell nanoparticles were prepared by one pot simultaneous reduction of AgNO{sub 3} and hydrolysis of zirconium (IV) isopropoxide. The formation of core–shell nanoparticles was confirmed by absorption, XRD, and HR-TEM techniques. The antibacterial activity of Ag@ZrO{sub 2} core–shell nanoparticles against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and the antifungal properties against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were examined by the agar diffusion method. DNA intercalation studies were carried out in CT-DNA. As a result ZrO{sub 2} supported on the surface of AgNPs not only prevented aggregation, but also proved to have enhanced antimicrobial activity and DNA intercalation than the Ag nanoparticles. - Highlights: • Ag@ZrO{sub 2} core–shell nanoparticles were prepared by one pot synthesis. • The ZrO{sub 2} coated AgNPs prevent aggregation and enhanced stability. • The surfaced modified AgNPs showed higher antimicrobial activity. • DNA intercalation studies show better binding affinity of core–shell NPs.

  5. Intense and stable surface-enhanced Raman scattering from Ag@mesoporous SiO{sub 2} film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Long, Yongjin; Wang, Xiaolong; Chen, Dong; Jiang, Tao, E-mail: jiangtao@nbu.edu.cn; Zhao, Ziqi; Zhou, Jun, E-mail: zhoujun@nbu.edu.cn

    2016-09-15

    A surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) film consisting of mesoporous silica (MSiO{sub 2}) coated Ag nanoparticles (NPs) was achieved. The as-prepared hybrid NPs were uniform in size and formed large amount of aggregates in the film. “Hot spots” were supposed to appear in the MSiO{sub 2} shells with an average size as small as 15 nm. Such a novel core–shell structure therefore induced the enhancement of SERS intensity compared to the film of bare Ag NPs and polymer film of Ag-CMC. The homogeneity and stability of SERS signals from the Ag@MSiO{sub 2} film were also tested. A relative standard deviation of SERS intensity lower than 20% from Raman mapping and a stable SERS signal with excitation power of 100 mW were observed, which were both better than the other two films. Moreover, the obtained Ag@MSiO{sub 2} film was applied to detect thiram pesticides and a detection limit as low as 1×10{sup −8} M was reached, which indicates the advantages of the Ag@MSiO{sub 2} film in biosensor.

  6. MOCVD ZnO/Screen Printed Ag Back Reflector for Flexible Thin Film Silicon Solar Cell Application

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Amornrat Limmanee

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available We have prepared Ag back electrode by screen printing technique and developed MOCVD ZnO/screen printed Ag back reflector for flexible thin film silicon solar cell application. A discontinuity and poor contact interface between the MOCVD ZnO and screen printed Ag layers caused poor open circuit voltage (Voc and low fill factor (FF; however, an insertion of a thin sputtered ZnO layer at the interface could solve this problem. The n type hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H film is preferable for the deposition on the surface of MOCVD ZnO film rather than the microcrystalline film due to its less sensitivity to textured surface, and this allowed an improvement in the FF. The n-i-p flexible amorphous silicon solar cell using the MOCVD ZnO/screen printed Ag back reflector showed an initial efficiency of 6.2% with Voc=0.86 V, Jsc=12.4 mA/cm2, and FF = 0.58 (1 cm2. The identical quantum efficiency and comparable performance to the cells using conventional sputtered Ag back electrode have verified the potential of the MOCVD ZnO/screen printed Ag back reflector and possible opportunity to use the screen printed Ag thick film for flexible thin film silicon solar cells.

  7. Continuous Synthesis of Ag/TiO2 Nanoparticles with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity by Pulsed Laser Ablation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rui Zhou

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available A facile and environmental friendly synthesis strategy based on pulsed laser ablation has been developed for potential mass production of Ag-loaded TiO2 (Ag/TiO2 nanoparticles. By sequentially irradiating titanium and silver target substrates, respectively, with the same 1064 nm 100 ns fiber laser, Ag/TiO2 particles can be fabricated. A postannealing process leads to the crystallization of TiO2 to anatase phase with high photocatalytic activity. The phase composition, microstructure, and surface state of the elaborated Ag/TiO2 are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM, transmission electron microscope (TEM, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS techniques. The results suggest that the presence of silver clusters deposited on the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles. The nanostructure is formed through laser interaction with materials. Photocatalytic activity evaluation shows that silver clusters could significantly enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 in degradation of methylene blue (MB under UV light irradiation, which is attributed to the efficient electron traps by Ag clusters. Our developed Ag/TiO2 nanoparticles synthesized via a straightforward, continuous, and green pathway could have great potential applications in photocatalysis.

  8. RBS and ion channeling studies of Ag-doped YBa2Cu3O7-δ targets and films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li Yupu; Liu, J.R.; Cui, X.T.; Chu, W.K.

    1998-01-01

    The location of Ag in Ag-doped YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ (YBCO) films and other high-T c materials (such as Ag-doped BiSrCaCuO films and Ag-sheathed textured BiSrCaCuO wires) is a very important issue for improving high-T c materials. In this work, laser ablated and DC magnetron sputtered YBCO films on (100) LaAlO 3 and (100) SrTiO 3 were prepared from sintered Ag-YBCO composite targets (nominally containing 5 wt% Ag) and studied by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) and ion channeling techniques using 2.0 MeV 4 He + and 7 Li + beams. We have found that the Ag-YBCO targets contain about 3 wt% Ag and most of the retained Ag atoms form some small size Ag precipitates with a typical size smaller than a few microns. We have demonstrated that in very good single crystalline YBCO films, the percentage of retained Ag in substitutional sites can be estimated by ion channeling technique. For example, we have found that about 1.2 wt% Ag atoms remain in the laser ablated Ag-doped films prepared from the Ag-YBCO target and about two-thirds of the retained Ag atoms occupy substitutional sites. The sputtered films contain less retained Ag atoms since the deposition temperature is higher and deposition time is longer than those for laser ablated films. (orig.)

  9. Preparation and self-sterilizing properties of Ag@TiO{sub 2}–styrene–acrylic complex coatings

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhou, Xiang-dong; Chen, Feng; Yang, Jin-tao, E-mail: yangjt@zjut.edu.cn; Yan, Xiao-hui; Zhong, Ming-qiang, E-mail: zhongmingqiang@hotmail.com

    2013-04-01

    In this study, we report a simple and cost-effective method for self-sterilized complex coatings obtained by Ag@TiO{sub 2} particle incorporation into styrene–acrylic latex. The Ag@TiO{sub 2} particles were prepared via a coupling agent modification process. The composite latices characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study were highly homogeneous at the nanometric scale, and the Ag@TiO{sub 2} particles were well dispersed and exhibited an intimate contact between both the organic and inorganic components. The Ag@TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles significantly enhanced the absorption in the visible region and engendered a good heat-insulating effect of the complex coatings. Moreover, the Ag@TiO{sub 2} nanoparticle incorporation into this polymer matrix renders self-sterilized nanocomposite materials upon light excitation, which are tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The complex coatings display an impressive performance in the killing of all micro-organisms with a maximum for a Ag@TiO{sub 2} loading concentration of 2–5 wt.%. The weathering endurance of the complex coating was also measured. - Highlights: ► We prepared Ag@TiO{sub 2}–styrene–acrylic complex latex in one pot. ► Good antibacterial performances of complex coatings were observed. ► The complex coating was resistant to weathering after 48 h. ► The complex coating exhibits good heat-insulating effect.

  10. Ag/α-Fe2O3 hollow microspheres: Preparation and application for hydrogen peroxide detection

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kang, Xinyuan; Wu, Zhiping; Liao, Fang; Zhang, Tingting; Guo, Tingting

    2015-09-01

    In this paper, we demonstrated a simple approach for preparing α-Fe2O3 hollow spheres by mixing ferric nitrate aqueous and glucose in 180 °C. The glucose was found to act as a soft template in the process of α-Fe2O3 hollow spheres formation. Ag/α-Fe2O3 hollow nanocomposite was obtained under UV irradiation without additional reducing agents or initiators. Synthesized Ag/α-Fe2O3 hollow composites exhibited remarkable catalytic performance toward H2O2 reduction. The electrocatalytic activity mechanism of Ag/α-Fe2O3/GCE were discussed toward the reduction of H2O2 in this paper.

  11. Electrical mobility of silver ion in Ag2O-B2O3-P2O5-TeO2 glasses.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sklepić, Kristina; Vorokhta, Maryna; Mošner, Petr; Koudelka, Ladislav; Moguš-Milanković, Andrea

    2014-10-16

    The effect of adding TeO(2) into (100 - x)[0.5Ag(2)O - 0.1B(2)O(3) - 0.4P(2)O(5)] - xTeO(2), with 0-80 mol % TeO(2) glass, on the structural changes and electrical properties has been investigated. DSC and thermodilatomery were used to study their thermal behavior, structure was studied by Raman spectroscopy, and electrical properties have been studied by impedance spectroscopy over a wide temperature and frequency range. The introduction of TeO(2) as a third glass former to the glass network causes the structural transformation from TeO(3) (tp) to TeO(4) (tbp) which contributes to the changes in conductivity. The glasses with low TeO(2) content show only a slow decrease in dc conductivity with addition of TeO(2) due to the increase of the number of nonbridging oxygens, which increases the mobility of Ag(+) ions. The steep decrease in conductivity for glasses containing more than 40 mol % TeO(2) is a result of decrease of the Ag(2)O content and stronger cross-linkage in glass network through the formation of more Te-(eq)O(ax)-Te bonds in TeO(4) tbp units. The glasses obey ac conductivity scaling with respect to temperature, implying that the dynamic process is not temperature dependent. On the other hand, the scaling of the spectra for different glass compositions showed the deviations from the Summerfield scaling because of the local structural disorder which occurs as a result of the structural modifications in the tellurite glass network.

  12. Silver vanadium diphosphate Ag2VP2O8: Electrochemistry and characterization of reduced material providing mechanistic insights

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Takeuchi, Esther S.; Lee, Chia-Ying; Cheng, Po-Jen; Menard, Melissa C.; Marschilok, Amy C.; Takeuchi, Kenneth J.

    2013-01-01

    Silver vanadium phosphorous oxides (Ag w V x P y O z ) are notable battery cathode materials due to their high energy density and demonstrated ability to form in-situ Ag metal nanostructured electrically conductive networks within the cathode. While analogous silver vanadium diphosphate materials have been prepared, electrochemical evaluations of these diphosphate based materials have been limited. We report here the first electrochemical study of a silver vanadium diphosphate, Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 , where the structural differences associated with phosphorous oxides versus diphosphates profoundly affect the associated electrochemistry. Reminiscent of Ag 2 VO 2 PO 4 reduction, in-situ formation of silver metal nanoparticles was observed with reduction of Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 . However, counter to Ag 2 VO 2 PO 4 reduction, Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 demonstrates a significant decrease in conductivity upon continued electrochemical reduction. Structural analysis contrasting the crystallography of the parent Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 with that of the proposed Li 2 VP 2 O 8 reduction product is employed to gain insight into the observed electrochemical reduction behavior, where the structural rigidity associated with the diphosphate anion may be associated with the observed particle fracturing upon deep electrochemical reduction. Further, the diphosphate anion structure may be associated with the high thermal stability of the partially reduced Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 materials, which bodes well for enhanced safety of batteries incorporating this material. - Graphical abstract: Structure and galvanostatic intermittent titration-type test data for silver vanadium diphosphate, Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 . Highlights: ► First electrochemical study of a silver vanadium diphosphate, Ag 2 VP 2 O 8 . ► In-situ formation of Ag 0 nanoparticles was observed upon electrochemical reduction. ► Structural analysis used to provide insight of the electrochemical behavior

  13. Controlled preparation of M(Ag, Au)/TiO2 through sulfydryl-assisted method for enhanced photocatalysis

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xia, Hongbo; Wu, Suli; Bi, Jiajie; Zhang, Shufen

    2017-11-01

    Here a simple and effective method was explored to fabricate M/TiO2 (M = Ag, Au) composites, which required neither pre-treatment of TiO2 nor any additives as reducing agent. Using amorphous TiO2 spheres functionalized with SH groups as starting materials, the noble metallic ions (Ag, Au) can be adsorbed by TiO2 due to their special affinity with SH groups, which is beneficial to the uniform dispersion of metallic ions on the surface of TiO2. Then the adsorbed ions were reduced to form noble metal nanoparticles by heating process (95 °C) directly without additive as reduction agent. Meanwhile, the amorphous TiO2 was transformed into anatase phase during the heating process. Thus, the transformation of TiO2 along with the reduction of noble metallic ions (Ag, Au) was simultaneously carried out by heating. The XRD patterns proved the formation of anatase TiO2 after heating. The characterizations of XPS and TEM proved the formation of Ag and Au nanoparticles on the surface of TiO2. The element mapping indicated that Ag nanoparticles are dispersed uniformly on the surface of TiO2. The photocatalytic activity of the composites has been investigated by the degradation of methyl orange under visible light irradiation. The results showed that when Ag/TiO2 (2.8 wt%) was used as photocatalyst, about 98% of the MO molecules were degraded in 70 min.

  14. Synthesis, structure and electrochemistry of Ag-modified LiMn2O4 cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhou Wenjia; He Benlin; Li Hulin

    2008-01-01

    Spinel lithium manganese oxide was prepared by sol-gel method and a series of Ag/LiMn 2 O 4 composites with different Ag additive contents were prepared by thermal decomposition of AgNO 3 added to the pure LiMn 2 O 4 powders. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDAX) and various electrochemical measurement methods were used to examine the structural and electrochemical characteristics of the Ag/LiMn 2 O 4 composite powders. Phase analysis showed that Ag particles were dispersed on the surface of LiMn 2 O 4 instead of entering the spinel structure. According to the electrochemical tests results, it is clearly to see that Ag additives efficiently improved the cycling stability, reversibility and high-rate discharge capacity of pristine LiMn 2 O 4 by increasing the electrical conductivity between LiMn 2 O 4 particles, decreasing the polarization of cathode and reducing the dissolution of Mn. Meanwhile the influence of the Ag additive contents on the electrochemical properties of the Ag/LiMn 2 O 4 composites is also investigated in detail

  15. Selective hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane to ethylene over Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 catalysts prepared by surface reduction

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Han, Yuxiang; Gu, Guangfeng; Sun, Jingya; Wang, Wenjuan; Wan, Haiqin; Xu, Zhaoyi; Zheng, Shourong

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Surface reduction method was used for preparation of Pd-Ag(Cu) bimetallic catalysts. • Hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane was investigated for production of ethylene. • Ag(Cu) selectively deposited on Pd surface during surface reduction process. • Ethylene selectivity was enhanced over Pd-Ag(Cu)/Al_2O_3 catalyst prepared by surface reduction. • Isolated Pd site is the key species for ethylene selectivity. - Abstract: Alumina supported Pd-Ag and (Cu) bimetallic catalysts (denoted as sr-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 or sr-Pd-Cu/Al_2O_3) with varied Pd/Ag (or Cu) ratios were prepared using the surface reduction method, and the gas-phase catalytic hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane over the catalysts were investigated. For comparison, Pd-Ag bimetallic catalysts were prepared by the conventional co-impregnation method (denoted as im-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3). The catalysts were characterized by N_2 adsorption, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and CO chemisorption. Characterization results indicated that surface reduction led to selective deposition of metallic Ag on the surface of Pd particles, while Pd and Ag just disorderly mixed in the catalyst prepared by impregnation method. Therefore, sr-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 exhibited a higher ethylene selectivity than im-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 for hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane at a similar Ag loading amount. Moreover, among sr-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3, sr-Pd-Cu/Al_2O_3 and im-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 catalysts, the ethylene selectivity decreased over these catalysts following the order: sr-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3 > sr-Pd-Cu/Al_2O_3 > im-Pd-Ag/Al_2O_3. The present results indicate that surface reduction can be used as a potential method to synthesize catalyst with enhanced ethylene selectivity in hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane.

  16. CO oxidation catalyzed by ag nanoparticles supported on SnO/CeO2

    KAUST Repository

    Khan, Inayatali; Sajid, Nida K M; Badshah, Amin; Wattoo, Muhammad Hamid Sarwar; Anjum, Dalaver H.; Nadeem, Muhammad Amtiaz

    2015-01-01

    by the XRD technique due to sintering inside the 3D array channels of CeO2 during the calcination process. The Ag-Sn/CeO2 (4%) catalyst was the most efficient and exhibited 100% CO oxidation at 100 °C due to small particle size and strong electronic

  17. Effect of mesh patterning with UV pulsed-laser on optical and electrical properties of ZnO/Ag-Ti thin films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kao, K.S.; Cheng, D.L.; Chang, S.H.; Hsieh, P.T.; Chin, H.S.; Lin, H.K.

    2010-01-01

    In this study, the ZnO/Ag-Ti structure for transparence conducting oxide (TCO) is investigated by optimizing the thickness of the Ag-Ti alloy and ZnO layers. The Ag-Ti thin film is deposited by DC magnetron sputtering and its thicknesses is well controlled. The ZnO thin film is prepared by sol-gel method using zinc acetate as cation source, 2-methoxiethanol as solvent and monoethanolamine as solution stabilizer. The ZnO film deposition is performed by spin-coating technique and dried at 150 deg. C on Corning 1737 glass. Due to the conductivity of ZnO/Ag-Ti is dominated by Ag-Ti, the sheet resistance of ZnO/Ag-Ti decrease dramatically as the thickness of Ag-Ti layer increases. However, the transmittances of ZnO/Ag-Ti become unacceptable for TCO application after the thickness of Ag-Ti layer beyond 6 nm. The as-deposited ZnO/Ag-Ti structure has the optical transmittance of 83% - 500 nm and the low resistivity of 1.2 x 10 -5 Ω-cm. Furthermore, for improving the optical and electrical properties of ZnO/Ag-Ti, the thermal treatment using laser is adopted. Experimental results indicate that the transmittance of ZnO/Ag-Ti is improved from 83% to 89% - 500 nm with resistivity of 1.02 x 10 -5 Ω-cm after laser drilling. The optical spectrum, the resistance, and the morphology of the ZnO/Ag-Ti will be reported in the study.

  18. Preparation of AgBr@SiO{sub 2} core@shell hybrid nanoparticles and their bactericidal activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yuanyuan [Key Laboratory for Special Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004 (China); Yang, Lisu [Key Laboratory for Special Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004 (China); Henna Sports School, Zhengzhou 450045 (China); Zhao, Yanbao, E-mail: yanbaozhao@126.com [Key Laboratory for Special Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004 (China); Li, Binjie; Sun, Lei; Luo, Huajuan [Key Laboratory for Special Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004 (China)

    2013-04-01

    AgBr@SiO{sub 2} core@shell hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully prepared by sol-gel method. Their morphology and structure were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The hybrid NPs are predominantly spherical in shape, with an average diameter of 180–200 nm, and each NP contains one inorganic core. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the hybrid NPs were examined against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), respectively. Results indicated that the AgBr@SiO{sub 2} NPs had excellent antibacterial activity. - Highlights: ► Presents a novel antibacterial agent “AgBr@ SiO{sub 2} NPs”. ► AgBr@SiO{sub 2} hybrid NPs could provide long-term antimicrobial effect. ► AgBr@SiO{sub 2} hybrid NPs have excellent antibacterial activity.

  19. Visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag2O coated Bi2WO6 hierarchical microspheres assembled by nanosheets

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, Lin; Hua, Hao; Yang, Qi; Hu, Chenguo

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Bi 2 WO 6 hierarchical microspheres assembled by nanosheets and dispersed nanosheets are synthesized. • Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 heterostuctures exhibites an enhanced photocatalytic activity compared with the Bi 2 WO 6 nanostructures. • Photocatalytic activity of the Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 microspheres is higher than that of the nanosheets. • Bi 2 WO 6 hierarchical structure is an excellent architecture for loading of Ag 2 O nanoparticles. - Abstract: Bi 2 WO 6 hierarchical microspheres assembled by nanosheets and dispersed nanosheets were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction in different conditions. Ag 2 O nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of Bi 2 WO 6 microspheres and nanosheets by the chemical precipitation method. The photocatalytic performance of pure Bi 2 WO 6 nanostructures and Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 heterostructures were evaluated by the photocatalytic decolorization of RhB solution under visible-light irradiation. Compared with the pure Bi 2 WO 6 nanostructures, the Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 heterostructures exhibited an obviously enhanced photocatalytic activity. And photocatalytic activity of the Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 microspheres is higher than that of the Ag 2 O/Bi 2 WO 6 nanosheets. This work demonstrates that the Bi 2 WO 6 hierarchical three-dimensional structure is an excellent architecture for the loading of Ag 2 O nanoparticles to build a highly efficient photocatalyst

  20. Synthesis of efficient silica supported TiO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 2}O heterostructured catalyst with enhanced photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zelekew, Osman Ahmed; Kuo, Dong-Hau, E-mail: dhkuo@mail.ntust.edu.tw; Yassin, Jemal Mohammed; Ahmed, Kedir Ebrahim; Abdullah, Hairus

    2017-07-15

    Graphical abstract: Proposed charge separation mechanism and degradation of dye with photocatalyst under light irradiation. - Highlights: • n-type TiO{sub 2} inside and p-type Ag{sub 2}O outside was designed. • The p–n junction formation built in an electric field. • The p–n junction facilitates the electrons and holes separation. • The degradation of dye becomes more effective with Ag{sub 2}O/TiO{sub 2} catalyst. - Abstract: We develop the n-type TiO{sub 2} coated on SiO{sub 2} support abbreviated as SiO{sub 2}/TiO{sub 2} (ST) followed by deposition of p-type Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles outside for the purpose of photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Different composite catalysts were prepared with changing the amount AgNO{sub 3} (such as 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and the composites were abbreviated as ST, STA-5, STA-10, STA-20, and STA-30, respectively. The composite catalysts were characterized with different techniques and tested for Rhodamine B (RhB) dye degradation under UV and visible light. Among the composite catalysts, the degradation efficiency of STA-20 was the highest and it degraded about 99% within 40 min under UV light-irradiation. However, the ST, STA-5, STA-10, and STA-30 composite catalysts could degrade about 21%, 47%, 58%, and 75% of the dye, respectively. Furthermore, the STA-5, STA-10, STA-20, and STA-30 composites were also tested and about 39%, 47%, 57%, and 42% of the dye, respectively, was degraded under visible light source. Hence, the formation of p–n junction heterostructure between n-type TiO{sub 2} and p-type Ag{sub 2}O could enhance the degradation of RhB in both UV and visible light irradiation. It could be also potentially applicable photocatalyst for environmental remediation.

  1. Three-dimensional Ag2O/Bi5O7I p-n heterojunction photocatalyst harnessing UV-vis-NIR broad spectrum for photodegradation of organic pollutants.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Yannan; Zhu, Gangqiang; Hojamberdiev, Mirabbos; Gao, Jianzhi; Zhu, Runliang; Wang, Chenghui; Wei, Xiumei; Liu, Peng

    2018-02-15

    Ag 2 O nanoparticles-loaded Bi 5 O 7 I microspheres forming a three dimensional Ag 2 O/Bi 5 O 7 I p-n heterojunction photocatalyst with wide-spectrum response were synthesized in this study. The results of transmission electron microscopy observations revealed that the Ag 2 O nanoparticles with the diameter of ca. 10-20nm were distributed on the surfaces of Bi 5 O 7 I nanosheets. The as-synthesized Ag 2 O/Bi 5 O 7 I exhibited an excellent wide-spectrum response to wavelengths ranging from ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared (NIR), indicating its potential for effective utilization of solar energy. Compared with pure Bi 5 O 7 I, the Ag 2 O/Bi 5 O 7 I composite also demonstrated excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Bisphenol A and phenol in aqueous solution under visible LED light irradiation. Among samples, the 20% Ag 2 O/Bi 5 O 7 I composite photocatalyst showed the highest photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Bisphenol A and phenol in aqueous solution. In addition, the 20% Ag 2 O/Bi 5 O 7 I composite also exhibited a photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Bisphenol A under NIR light irradiation. The improved photocatalytic activity is attributed to the formation of a p-n heterojunction between Ag 2 O and Bi 5 O 7 I, allowing the efficient utilization of solar energy (from UV to NIR) and high separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. The present work is desirable to explore a possible avenue for the full utilization of solar energy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Effect of Ag Doping on the Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of ZnO(0001 Surface

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xiang Qian

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Using first-principle calculations, the geometrical structure, the electronic and optical properties of Ag-doped ZnO(0001 surface have been investigated. We found that Ag-doped ZnO(0001 surface is more easily formed on the first layer. On the other hand, the doped surface has gradually become an equipotential body, showing obvious metallic characteristics. We found that a new peak appeared in the low energy region after Ag doping, which was mainly due to the electron transition between the two orbital levels of Ag-4d and O-2p.

  3. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico-Ag magnetically recyclable nanocatalyst for azo dyes reduction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kurtan, U., E-mail: ukurtan@fatih.edu.tr; Amir, Md.; Baykal, A.

    2016-02-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico@Ag magnetic recyclable nanocatalyst (MRC) is more effective for the reduction of azo dyes consisting of MB and MO. • It could be reused several times without significant loss in catalytic activity. • Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico@Ag (MRCs) has been successively used for colour reduction of MO, MB, EY, RhB and their mixtures. - Abstract: In this study, we report the successful synthesis of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico-Ag nanocomposite as magnetically recyclable nanocatalyst (MRCs) via reflux process at 80 °C for 5 h followed by reduction of Ag{sup +}. FeCl{sub 3}·6H{sub 2}O, FeCl{sub 2}·4H{sub 2}O, AgNO{sub 3} as starting reactants and nicotinic acid as linker. The structure, morphology, thermal behaviour and magnetic properties of the product were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDX), thermal gravimetry (TG) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), respectively. The catalytic activity of product for various azo dyes such as methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), Rhodamine B (RhB) and eosin Y (EY) and their double mixtures were studied. It was found that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico-Ag MRCs is an efficient catalyst and can also rapidly separated from the reaction medium using magnet without considerable loss in its catalytic activity and used several times. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@Nico-Ag MRCs has potential for the treatment of industrial dye pollutants.

  4. Pushing and trapping phenomena in YBa2Cu3O7 melt-textured composites with BaZrO3 and Ag additions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Carrillo, A E; Puig, T; Obradors, X

    2005-01-01

    A new Ag trapped particle morphology has been discovered in melt-textured YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 /Ag composites where the interface energy between particle inclusions and a solid matrix has been enhanced with BaZrO 3 additives. The enhanced pushing effect generates square-like macrosegregation bands where the secondary additives Y 2 BaCuO 5 , BaZrO 3 , and Ag are accumulated. It is shown that elongated Ag particles with a long axis ∼ 60-120 μm and aspect ratios as high as a ∼ 12 can be trapped in the YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 matrix free of any other additive with a very anisotropic orientation. It is demonstrated that the elongated Ag particles lie with the long axis parallel to the growth direction in all the growth sectors generated by the top seeding growth. The pushing-trapping theory is used to explain qualitatively the unusual phenomenon of a growth-induced morphological shaping of inclusion particles

  5. UV-visible light-activated Ag-decorated, monodisperse TiO2 aggregates for treatment of the pharmaceutical oxytetracycline.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Han, Changseok; Likodimos, Vlassis; Khan, Javed Ali; Nadagouda, Mallikarjuna N; Andersen, Joel; Falaras, Polycarpos; Rosales-Lombardi, Pablo; Dionysiou, Dionysios D

    2014-10-01

    Noble metal Ag-decorated, monodisperse TiO2 aggregates were successfully synthesized by an ionic strength-assisted, simple sol-gel method and were used for the photocatalytic degradation of the antibiotic oxytetracycline (OTC) under both UV and visible light (UV-visible light) irradiation. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD); UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy; environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM); transmission electron microscopy (TEM); high-resolution TEM (HR-TEM); micro-Raman, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS); and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results showed that the uniformity of TiO2 aggregates was finely tuned by the sol-gel method, and Ag was well decorated on the monodisperse TiO2 aggregates. The absorption of the samples in the visible light region increased with increasing Ag loading that was proportional to the amount of Ag precursor added in the solution over the tested concentration range. The Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (The BET) surface area slightly decreased with increasing Ag loading on the TiO2 aggregates. Ag-decorated TiO2 samples demonstrated enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of OTC under UV-visible light illumination compared to that of pure TiO2. The sample containing 1.9 wt% Ag showed the highest photocatalytic activity for the degradation of OTC under both UV-visible light and visible light illumination. During the experiments, the detected Ag leaching for the best TiO2-Ag photocatalyst was much lower than the National Secondary Drinking Water Regulation for Ag limit (0.1 mg L(-1)) issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

  6. A study on the resistance switching of Ag2Se and Ta2O5 heterojunctions using structural engineering

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lee, Tae Sung; Lee, Nam Joo; Abbas, Haider; Hu, Quanli; Yoon, Tae-Sik; Lee, Hyun Ho; Le Shim, Ee; Kang, Chi Jung

    2018-01-01

    The resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices with heterostuctures have been investigated due to cycling stability, nonlinear switching, complementary resistive switching and self-compliance. The heterostructured devices can modulate the resistive switching (RS) behavior appropriately by bilayer structure with a variety of materials. In this study, the bipolar resistive switching characteristics of the bilayer structures composed of Ta2O5 and Ag2Se, which are transition-metal oxide (TMO) and silver chalcogenide, were investigated. The bilayer devices of Ta2O5 deposited on Ag2Se (Ta2O5/Ag2Se) and Ag2Se deposited on Ta2O5 (Ag2Se/Ta2O5) were fabricated for investigation of the RS characteristics by stacking sequence of Ta2O5 and Ag2Se. All operating voltages were applied to the Ag top electrode with the Pt bottom electrode grounded. The Ta2O5/Ag2Se device showed that a negative voltage sweep switched the device from high resistance state (HRS) to low resistance state (LRS) and a positive voltage sweep switched the device from LRS to HRS. On the contrary, for the Ag2Se/Ta2O5 device a positive voltage sweep switched the device from HRS to LRS, and a negative voltage sweep switched it from LRS to HRS. The polarity dependence of RS was attributed to the stacking sequence of Ta2O5 and Ag2Se. In addition, the combined heterostructured device of both bilayer stacks, Ta2O5/Ag2Se and Ag2Se/Ta2O5, exhibited the complementary switching characteristics. By using threshold switching devices, sneak path leakage can be reduced without additional selectors. The bilayer heterostructures of Ta2O5 and Ag2Se have various advantages such as self-compliance, reproducibility and forming-free stable RS. It confirms the possible applications of TMO and silver chalcogenide heterostructures in RRAM.

  7. Quantum dot sensitized solar cell based on TiO2/CdS/Ag2S heterostructure

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pawar, Sachin A.; Patil, Dipali S.; Kim, Jin Hyeok; Patil, Pramod S.; Shin, Jae Cheol

    2017-04-01

    Quantum dot sensitized solar cell (QDSSC) is fabricated based on a stepwise band structure of TiO2/CdS/Ag2S to improve the photoconversion efficiency of TiO2/CdS system by incorporating a low band gap Ag2S QDs. Vertically aligned TiO2 nanorods assembly is prepared by a simple hydrothermal technique. The formation of CdS and Ag2S QDs over TiO2 nanorods assembly as a photoanode is carried out by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The synthesized electrode materials are characterized by XRD, XPS, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Optical, solar cell and electrochemical performances. The results designate that the QDs of CdS and Ag2S have efficiently covered exterior surfaces of TiO2 nanorods assembly. A cautious evaluation between TiO2/CdS and TiO2/CdS/Ag2S sensitized cells tells that CdS and Ag2S synergetically helps to enhance the light harvesting ability. Under AM 1.5G illumination, the photoanodes show an improved power conversion efficiency of 1.87%, in an aqueous polysulfide electrolyte with short-circuit photocurrent density of 7.03 mA cm-2 which is four fold higher than that of a TiO2/CdS system.

  8. Synthesis of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) triggered Ag/TiO2 photocatalyst for degradation of endocrine disturbing compounds

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Leong, Kah Hon; Gan, Bee Ling; Ibrahim, Shaliza; Saravanan, Pichiah

    2014-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag/TiO 2 was synthesized with aid of natural photon stimulated photoreduction. • Deposited Ag prompted well the LSPRs, Schottky barrier for visible light utilization. • Photocatalytic activity was evaluated by degrading EDCs under visible light. • 3.0 wt% Ag/TiO 2 resulted with good photocatalytic efficiency over others. - Abstract: Surface deposition of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) onto the 100% anatase titania (Ag/TiO 2 ) for evolution of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was achieved sustainably with the assistance of solar energy. The preparation resulted in Ag/TiO 2 photocatalyst with varied Ag depositions (0.5 wt%, 1.0 wt%, 3.0 wt% and 5.0 wt%). All obtained photocatalysts were characterized for the evolution of SPR via crystalline phase analysis, morphology, lattice fringes, surface area and pore size characteristics, chemical composition with chemical and electronic state, Raman scattering, optical and photoluminescence properties. The deposition of synthesized Ag NPs exhibited high uniformity and homogeneity and laid pathway for effective utilization of the visible region of electromagnetic spectrum through SPR. The depositions also lead for suppressing recombination rates of electron–hole. The photocatalytic evaluation was carried out by adopting two different class of endocrine disturbing compound (EDC) i.e., amoxicillin (pharmaceutical) and 2,4-dichlorophenol (pesticide) excited with artificial visible light source. Ag/TiO 2 with Ag > 0.5 wt% exhibited significant degradation efficiency for both amoxicillin and 2,4-dichlorophenol. Thus synthesized Ag/TiO 2 revealed the implication of plasmonics on TiO 2 for the enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

  9. Opposite effect of photocorrosion on photocatalytic performance among various AgxMyOz/TiO2 (M = C, P) photocatalysts: A novel effective method for preparing Ag/TiO2 composite

    Science.gov (United States)

    Feng, Caixia; Pang, Yuhua; Wang, Yan; Sun, Mingming; Zhang, Chenyan; Zhang, Ling; Zhou, Yanmei; Li, Deliang

    2016-07-01

    Three kinds of hybrids, Ag2CO3/TiO2, Ag2C2O4/TiO2 and Ag3PO4/TiO2 comprising of P25-TiO2 and silver-containing photocatalyst, (together coded as AgxMyOz/TiO2 (M = C, P)) were prepared via a facile precipitation method. The photocatalytic activity and stability of the as-prepared AgxMyOz/TiO2 was compared by monitoring the oxidation of propylene under visible light irradiation. Results showed that both Ag2CO3/TiO2 and Ag2C2O4/TiO2 exhibit perfect performance with a high propylene degradation removal rate of 88% and 78%, respectively, during four successive experimental runs. On the contrary, for Ag3PO4/TiO2, the photocatalytic activity gradually declines to 8% from 32% under the same conditions. In order to explore the reason for the above remarkable difference in activity and stability over AgxMyOz/TiO2, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) were used to investigate the change of AgxMyOz/TiO2 before and after irradiation. It was found that three silver-containings, Ag2CO3, Ag2C2O4 and Ag3PO4 on the surface of TiO2, all experienced photo-corrosion to various extents during irradiation process. Surprisingly, the effect of photo-corrosion on visible light activity and stability among various AgxMyOz/TiO2 is very different. For both Ag2CO3 and Ag2C2O4, they are easily decomposed into metallic Ag and CO2, and gaseous CO2 escaped from catalyst leaving silver nanoparticles on the surface of TiO2 resulted in the formation of plasmonic photocatalyst Ag/TiO2. The synergetic effect between surface plasma resonance of silver and interfacial electron transfer over the obtained Ag/TiO2 heterojunctions is in favor of the superior photocatalytic performance under visible light. While for Ag3PO4/TiO2, Ag3PO4 on the surface of TiO2 is partially photo-decomposed into Ag and phosphorus oxide and the phosphorus oxide covering on the surface of undecomposed Ag3PO4/TiO2 deactivates its photocatalytic performance

  10. AgBr/MgBi2O6 heterostructured composites with highly efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhong, Liansheng; Hu, Chaohao; Zhuang, Jing; Zhong, Yan; Wang, Dianhui; Zhou, Huaiying

    2018-06-01

    AgBr/MgBi2O6 heterostructured photocatalysts were synthesized by the deposition-precipitation method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence (PL), and UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS) were employed to examine the phase structure, morphology and optical properties of the as-prepared samples. The photocatalytic activity was investigated by decomposing methylene blue (MB) solution under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). AgBr/MgBi2O6 composites exhibited significantly enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic properties in comparison with pure MgBi2O6 and AgBr. When the molar ratio of AgBr to MgBi2O6 was 3:1, the composite catalyst showed the optimal photocatalytic activity and excellent stability. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of AgBr/MgBi2O6 composites was attributed to the formation of p-n heterojunction between AgBr and MgBi2O6, thereby resulting in the effective separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons-hole pairs.

  11. Visible-light-driven TiO2/Ag3PO4/GO heterostructure photocatalyst with dual-channel for photo-generated charges separation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lu, Bingqing; Ma, Ni; Wang, Yaping; Qiu, Yiwei; Hu, Haihua; Zhao, Jiahuan; Liang, Dayu; Xu, Sheng; Li, Xiaoyun; Zhu, Zhiyan; Cui, Can

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO was synthesized with a facile two-step method. • TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO exhibit superior photocatalytic activity and stability. • TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO has dual-channel for photo-generated charges separation. • TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO composite reduces the consumption of Ag. - Abstract: A novel triple-component TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /graphene oxide (TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO) photocatalyst with dual channels for photo-generated charges separation has been synthesized to improve the photocatalytic activity and stability of Ag 3 PO 4 under visible light. The synthesis involved in-situ growth of Ag 3 PO 4 nanoparticles on GO sheets to form Ag 3 PO 4 /GO, and then deposited TiO 2 nanocrystals on the surface of Ag 3 PO 4 by hydrolysis of Ti(SO 4 ) 2 at low-temperature hydrothermal condition. The TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO exhibited superior photocatalytic activity and stability to bare Ag 3 PO 4 , TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 and Ag 3 PO 4 /GO in degradation of Rhodamine B and phenol solutions under visible light. It is suggested that the photo-generated electrons in the conduction band of Ag 3 PO 4 can be quickly transferred to GO, while the holes in the valence band of Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to the valence band of TiO 2 . The dual transfer channels at the interfaces of TiO 2 /Ag 3 PO 4 /GO result in effective charges separation, leading to enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability. Furthermore, the content of noble metal Ag significantly reduces from 77 wt% in bare Ag 3 PO 4 to 55 wt% in the nanocomposite. The concept of establishing dual channels for charges separation in a triple-component heterostructure provides a promising way to develop photocatalysts with high efficiency

  12. Synthesis and visible light photoactivity of anatase Ag, and garlic loaded TiO2 nanocrystalline catalyst

    Science.gov (United States)

    An excellent visible light activated Ag and S doped TiO2 nanocatalyst was prepared by using AgNO3 and garlic (Allium sativum) as Ag+ and sulfur sources, respectively. The catalyst resisted the change from anatase to rutile phase even at calcination at 700 oC. The photocatalytic e...

  13. Preparation, structural and luminescent properties of nanocrystalline ZnO films doped Ag by close space sublimation method

    Science.gov (United States)

    Khomchenko, Viktoriya; Mazin, Mikhail; Sopinskyy, Mykola; Lytvyn, Oksana; Dan'ko, Viktor; Piryatinskii, Yurii; Demydiuk, Pavlo

    2018-05-01

    The simple way for silver doping of ZnO films is presented. The ZnO films were prepared by reactive rf-magnetron sputtering on silicon and sapphire substrates. Ag doping is carried out by sublimation of the Ag source located at close space at atmospheric pressure in air. Then the ZnO and ZnO-Ag films were annealed in wet media. The microstructure and optical properties of the films were compared and studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL) and cathodoluminescence (CL). XRD results indicated that all the ZnO films have a polycrystalline hexagonal structure and a preferred orientation with the c-axis perpendicular to the substrate. The annealing and Ag doping promote increasing grain's sizes and modification of grain size distribution. The effect of substrate temperature, substrate type, Ag doping and post-growth annealing of the films was studied by PL spectroscopy. The effect of Ag doping was obvious and identical for all the films, namely the wide visible bands of PL spectra are suppressed by Ag doping. The intensity of ultraviolet band increased 15 times as compared to their reference films on sapphire substrate. The ultraviolet/visible emission ratio was 20. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) for a 380 nm band was 14 nm, which is comparable with that of epitaxial ZnO. The data implies the high quality of ZnO-Ag films. Possible mechanisms to enhance UV emission are discussed.

  14. Study of the irreversible trapping of dihydrogen with the use of a MnO2/Ag2O mixture

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Galliez, K.

    2012-01-01

    The hydrogen risk generated by radiolysis of organic compounds during a nuclear waste transport is a major issue. The use of irreversible getters is considered to limit this risk. The aim of this work is to study one of these getters, MnO 2 /Ag 2 O, in order to better understand the trapping phenomenon and to ensure its reliability. Initially several parameters affecting the trapping kinetics were studied. It has been shown that among all MnO 2 allotropic phases, the nsutite has the best trapping kinetics. Moreover, specific surface area and defect amount in MnO 2 can enhance trapping performances. Ag 2 O weight percentage (acting as promotor) has been determined at 13% to have the best trapping kinetics. Chemisorption of H 2 , which is required for its application, has been shown by using several characterization techniques such as magnetometry, infrared spectroscopy and electronic energy loss spectroscopy. The trapping irreversibility and the regeneration of the getter have been demonstrated respectively under nitrogen or air at 150 C. Finally, proton insertion mechanism in MnO 2 has been elucidated by pairs distribution function analysis through the development of a model to simulate the complex structure of MnO 2 . It has been shown that Ag 2 O is turned into Ag 2 CO 3 during the preparation of the getter under water, which has never been demonstrated. (author) [fr

  15. Fabricación y caracterización de materiales Ag-Cd/CdO producidos mediante incorporación de partículas de CdO en aleaciones Ag-Cd líquidas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Equihua-Guillén, Fabián

    2014-03-01

    Full Text Available In the present work it has been investigated the kinetic behavior of internal oxidation processes of strips of Ag-Cd/CdO materials fabricated by adding CdO particles (size of 5 and 20 μm in liquid Ag-Cd alloys. It has been established the metallurgical mechanism that controls the formation of the thickness covered with CdO particles produced by internal oxidation of the Ag-Cd/CdO material. It has been developed, successfully, a metallographic preparation technique for characterizing the morphology, size and distribution of CdO particles produced by heat treatment of internal oxidation on the surface of each sample based on the distance from the original surface to the boundary of dispersed CdO particles. The material strips were sequentially roughed on its surface and the roughing thickness was measured in the cross section of each new surface to determine the number of particles per area and average particle size.En el presente trabajo se investigó el comportamiento cinético del proceso de oxidación interna de láminas del material Ag-Cd/CdO fabricado mediante adición de partículas de CdO con tamaño de 5 y 20 μm en aleaciones Ag-Cd en estado líquido. Se ha establecido el mecanismo metalúrgico que controla la formación del espesor cubierto con partículas de CdO producido por oxidación interna del material Ag-Cd/CdO. Se desarrolló con éxito una técnica de preparación metalográfica para caracterizar el tamaño y distribución de partículas de CdO producidas por oxidación interna sobre la superficie de cada lámina en función de la distancia a partir de la superficie original hasta el límite de partículas de CdO dispersas. Las placas del material fueron desbastadas secuencialmente sobre su superficie y se midió el espesor desbastado en la sección transversal de cada nueva superficie para determinar el número de partículas por unidad de área y el tamaño promedio de partícula.

  16. Enhanced photocathodic protection performance of Ag/graphene/TiO2 composite for 304SS under visible light

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Hong; Wang, Xiutong; Wei, Qinyi; Liu, Xueqing; Qian, Zhouhai; Hou, Baorong

    2017-06-01

    Ag and graphene co-sensitized TiO2 composites were successfully fabricated and used as photoanodes for photogenerated cathodic protection of 304 stainless steel (304SS) under visible light. Graphene films was firstly deposited onto the TiO2 nanotube (NT) films via cyclic voltammetric electrodeposition. Ag/graphene/TiO2 films were then fabricated via dipping and photoreduction method. The morphology, composition and optical response of the Ag/graphene/TiO2 NT composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-vis diffusion reflectance spectroscopy, respectively. The photocathodic protection performance of the Ag/graphene/TiO2 composites were systematically studied through open-circuit potential and potentiodynamic polarization measurements in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution under visible light (λ > 400 nm). The composites exhibited enhanced photogenerated cathodic protection performance for 304SS under visible light irradiation compared to pure TiO2. Graphene and Ag have a synergistic effect on the enhancement of photocathodic protection performance of TiO2. The composites prepared with 30-cycle graphene film and 15 mM AgNO3 solution showed the optimal corrosion protection performance.

  17. Green tide deactivation with layered-structure cuboids of Ag/CaTiO3 under UV light

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Soo-Wohn; Lozano-Sánchez, L.M.; Rodríguez-González, V.

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Synergic reasons such as mass transfer, morphology, biocide properties, UV-A photoresponse, and electron trapping that reduce recombination on Ag/CaTiO 3 nanocomposites, have the potential for the generation of reactive radicals that promote the fatal irreversible deactivation of Tetraselmis suecica algae in 12 min under UV-A irradiation. -- Highlights: • An alternative to deactivate harmful green tide is proposed by employing Ag/CaTiO 3 . • Particles of perovskite-like have rectangular prisms morphology with AgNPs ∼13 nm. • The cuboids achieve complete inactivation of Tetraselmis suecica algae in 12 min. • AgNPs functionalization induce fatal irreversible damages on the algae surface. -- Abstract: In this work, an alternative to deactivate noxious green tide Tetraselmis suecica in the short-term is proposed by employing Perovskite-like cube-shaped, crystalline CaTiO 3 semiconductors functionalized with atomic silver nanoparticles. CaTiO 3 was prepared by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and then Ag 0 NPs (1 wt% of CaTiO 3 ), were added by the photoreduction method. The XRD results show that crystalline CaTiO 3 has an orthorhombic unit cell with a Perovskite-like structure. Images obtained by FESEM and HRTEM microscopies show well-faceted CaTiO 3 rectangular prismatic morphology functionalizated with silver nanoparticles ∼13.5 nm. XPS and EDS-FESEM has confirmed the composition of CaTiO 3 and silver occurring mainly as reduced metal. The UV inactivation of noxious T. suecica with Ag/CaTiO 3 nanocomposites formed on bare materials results in complete deactivation of the algae in 12 min. The direct contact between harmful algae and Ag/CaTiO 3 nanocomposite is necessary to deactivate the algae and inhibits algae viability

  18. Synthesis of flower-like Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH p-n heterojunction with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Shijie [Innovation & Application Institute, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province 316022 (China); Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Health Risk Factors for Seafood, Zhoushan Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhoushan 316021 (China); State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Pollution Treatment and Control in Textile Industry, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620 (China); Xu, Kaibing [State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Research Center for Analysis and Measurement, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620 (China); Hu, Shiwei, E-mail: hushiweihai@163.com [Innovation & Application Institute, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province 316022 (China); Jiang, Wei [Innovation & Application Institute, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province 316022 (China); Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Health Risk Factors for Seafood, Zhoushan Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhoushan 316021 (China); Zhang, Junlei [Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433 (China); Liu, Jianshe [State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Pollution Treatment and Control in Textile Industry, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620 (China); Zhang, Lisha, E-mail: lszhang@dhu.edu.cn [State Environmental Protection Engineering Center for Pollution Treatment and Control in Textile Industry, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620 (China)

    2017-03-01

    Highlights: • Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH p-n heterojunctions are prepared by a solvothermal deposition-precipitation method. • They consist of flower-like BiOCOOH microspheres decorated with Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles. • Heterojunction with the Ag/Bi molar ratio of 0.2/1 showed the highest photocatalytic activity. • The photogenerated holes (h{sup +}) and superoxide radical anions (·O{sub 2}{sup −}) have been found to be the main reactive species. - Abstract: The development of efficient semiconductor heterojunction photocatalysts has drawn much attention. Herein, we have reported a kind of flower-like Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH p-n heterojunction as a novel and efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst. The Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH heterojunctions have been successfully prepared via a solvothermal precipitation-deposition method. They consist of flower-like BiOCOOH microspheres (diameters: 1–2.5 μm) decorated with Ag{sub 2}O nanoparticles (size: ∼14 nm). In addition, optical characterization reveals that they have broad visible-light photo-absorption. Importantly, under visible-light irradiation (λ > 400 nm), all Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH heterojunctions exhibit enhanced photocatalytic activity than pure BiOCOOH or Ag{sub 2}O for the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye and para-chlorophenol (4-CP). Especially, the Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH heterojunction with the Ag/Bi molar ratio of 0.2/1 shows the highest photocatalytic activity, which is even higher than the activity from the mechanical mixture (8 wt% Ag{sub 2}O + 92 wt% BiOCOOH). This enhanced photocatalytic performance could be predominantly attributed to the efficient separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. The photogenerated holes (h{sup +}) and superoxide radical anions (·O{sub 2}{sup −}) have been found to be the main reactive species responsible for the photodegradation of RhB dye in aqueous solution. Therefore, the Ag{sub 2}O/BiOCOOH p-n heterojunction has great potential to be used as a kind of efficient

  19. Coherent-Interface-Assembled Ag2O-Anchored Nanofibrillated Cellulose Porous Aerogels for Radioactive Iodine Capture.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lu, Yun; Liu, Hongwei; Gao, Runan; Xiao, Shaoliang; Zhang, Ming; Yin, Yafang; Wang, Siqun; Li, Jian; Yang, Dongjiang

    2016-10-26

    Nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) has received increasing attention in science and technology because of not only the availability of large amounts of cellulose in nature but also its unique structural and physical features. These high-aspect-ratio nanofibers have potential applications in water remediation and as a reinforcing scaffold in composites, coatings, and porous materials because of their fascinating properties. In this work, highly porous NFC aerogels were prepared based on tert-butanol freeze-drying of ultrasonically isolated bamboo NFC with 20-80 nm diameters. Then nonagglomerated 2-20-nm-diameter silver oxide (Ag 2 O) nanoparticles (NPs) were grown firmly onto the NFC scaffold with a high loading content of ∼500 wt % to fabricate Ag 2 O@NFC organic-inorganic composite aerogels (Ag 2 O@NFC). For the first time, the coherent interface and interaction mechanism between the cellulose I β nanofiber and Ag 2 O NPs are explored by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and 3D electron tomography. Specifically, a strong hydrogen between Ag 2 O and NFC makes them grow together firmly along a coherent interface, where good lattice matching between specific crystal planes of Ag 2 O and NFC results in very small interfacial straining. The resulting Ag 2 O@NFC aerogels take full advantage of the properties of the 3D organic aerogel framework and inorganic NPs, such as large surface area, interconnected porous structures, and supreme mechanical properties. They open up a wide horizon for functional practical usage, for example, as a flexible superefficient adsorbent to capture I - ions from contaminated water and trap I 2 vapor for safe disposal, as presented in this work. The viable binding mode between many types of inorganic NPs and organic NFC established here highlights new ways to investigate cellulose-based functional nanocomposites.

  20. Infrared spectra and stability of CO and H2O sorption over Ag-exchanged ZSM-5 zeolite: DFT study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jiang Shujun; Huang Shiping; Tu Weixia; Zhu Jiqin

    2009-01-01

    The infrared spectra and stability of CO and H 2 O sorption over Ag-exchanged ZSM-5 zeolite were investigated by using density function theory (DFT). The changes of NBO charge show that the electron transfers from CO molecule to the Ag + cation to form an σ-bond, and it accompanies by the back donation of d-electrons from Ag + cation to the CO (π*) orbital as one and two CO molecules are adsorbed on Ag-ZSM-5. The free energy changes ΔG, -5.55 kcal/mol and 6.52 kcal/mol for one and two CO molecules, illustrate that the Ag + (CO) 2 complex is unstable at the room temperature. The vibration frequency of C-O stretching of one CO molecule bonded to Ag + ion at 2211 cm -1 is in good agreement with the experimental results. The calculated C-O symmetric and antisymmetric stretching frequencies in the Ag + (CO) 2 complex shift to 2231 cm -1 and 2205 cm -1 when the second CO molecule is adsorbed. The calculated C-O stretching frequency in CO-Ag-ZSM-5-H 2 O complex shifts to 2199 cm -1 , the symmetric and antisymmetric O-H stretching frequencies are 3390 cm -1 and 3869 cm -1 , respectively. The Gibbs free energy change (ΔG H 2 O ) is -6.58 kcal/mol as a H 2 O molecule is adsorbed on CO-Ag-ZSM-5 complex at 298 K. The results show that CO-Ag-ZSM-5-H 2 O complex is more stable at room temperature

  1. H2 assisted NH3-SCR over Ag/Al2O3 for automotive applications

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Fogel, Sebastian

    -BEA can give a high NOx conversion in a broad temperature window without the need to dose H2 at higher temperatures. The aim of this study has been to investigate the combined Ag/Al2O3 and Fe-BEA catalyst system both at laboratory-scale and in full-scale enginebench testing. The catalysts were combined...... both in a sequential dual-bed layout and a dual-layer layout where the catalysts were coated on top of each other. The Ag/Al2O3 catalyst was also investigated with the aim of improving the sulphur tolerance and low-temperature activity by testing different alumina-supports. A large focus of this study...... the layers allowing diffusion of reaction intermediates between them. Ag/Al2O3 only and the combined Ag/Al2O3 – Fe-BEA systems were active during the transient NEDC. The NOx conversions were not very high which is related to the very low temperature of the NEDC and the lower than expected activity of the Ag...

  2. The photodeposition of surface plasmon Ag metal on SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposites sphere for enhancement of the photo-Fenton behavior

    Science.gov (United States)

    Uma, Kasimayan; Arjun, Nadarajan; Pan, Guan-Ting; Yang, Thomas C.-K.

    2017-12-01

    In this study, a simple sol-gel method was used for the synthesis of a core-shell structure of SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposites for employment as a visible light photocatalyst. It was observed that Ag nanoparticles about 20 nm in size were successfully deposited on the surface of the SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposites. The photocatalytic activity of the Ag-SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposites catalyst was investigated by observing the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye in a photo-Fenton process. The results showed that the Ag nanoparticles acted as centers for photo induced electron transfer. The catalytic activity in the SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposites were enhanced due to the plasmoni c effect of Ag metal under visible light irradiation. The addition of H2O2 played an important role, generating more OH radicals which improved the photo-Fenton catalytic activity, resulting in quicker degradation of the MB dye using the Ag-SiO2@α-Fe2O3 nanocomposite catalyst.

  3. The design of novel visible light driven Ag/CdO as smart nanocomposite for photodegradation of different dye contaminants

    Science.gov (United States)

    Saravanakumar, K.; Muthuraj, V.; Jeyaraj, M.

    2018-01-01

    In this paper, we report a novel visible light driven Ag/CdO photocatalyst, fabricated for the first time via one pot hydrothermal method and further applied for the photodegradation of two important exemplar water contaminants, Malachite green and Acid Orange 7. The microstructure, composition and optical properties of Ag/CdO nanocomposites were thoroughly investigated by various techniques. Scanning electron microscopy clearly shows that Ag NPs were strongly embedded between the CdO nanoparticles. Among the series of synthesized Ag/CdO nanocomposites, (5%) Ag/CdO nanocomposite possesses enhanced photocatalytic activity. This result was attributed to the synergistic effect between Ag and CdO, and mainly Ag NPs can act as an electron trap site, which could reduce the recombination of the electron-hole and induce the visible light absorption. The active species trapping experiments implicate radOH and O2rad - radicals as the respective primary and secondary reactive species responsible for oxidative photodegradation of organic pollutants. On the basis of the results, a possible photocatalytic mechanism has also been proposed.

  4. Tyrphostin AG-related compounds attenuate H2O2-induced TRPM2-dependent and -independent cellular responses.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yamamoto, Shinichiro; Toda, Takahiro; Yonezawa, Ryo; Negoro, Takaharu; Shimizu, Shunichi

    2017-05-01

    TRPM2 is a Ca 2+ -permeable channel that is activated by H 2 O 2 . TRPM2-mediated Ca 2+ signaling has been implicated in the aggravation of inflammatory diseases. Therefore, the development of TRPM2 inhibitors to prevent the aggravation of these diseases is expected. We recently reported that some Tyrphostin AG-related compounds inhibited the H 2 O 2 -induced activation of TRPM2 by scavenging the intracellular hydroxyl radical. In the present study, we examined the effects of AG-related compounds on H 2 O 2 -induced cellular responses in human monocytic U937 cells, which functionally express TRPM2. The effects of AG-related compounds on H 2 O 2 -induced changes in intracellular Ca 2+ concentrations, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation, and CXCL8 secretion were assessed using U937 cells. Ca 2+ influxes via TRPM2 in response to H 2 O 2 were blocked by AG-related compounds. AG-related compounds also inhibited the H 2 O 2 -induced activation of ERK, and subsequent secretion of CXCL8 mediated by TRPM2-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Our results show that AG-related compounds inhibit H 2 O 2 -induced CXCL8 secretion following ERK activation, which is mediated by TRPM2-dependent and -independent mechanisms in U937 cells. We previously reported that AG-related compounds blocked H 2 O 2 -induced TRPM2 activation by scavenging the hydroxyl radical. The inhibitory effects of AG-related compounds on TRPM2-independent responses may be due to scavenging of the hydroxyl radical. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Infrared Spectroscopy and Raman Scattering Studies on the Structure of Ag2O. B2O3. TeO2 Glass

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Thazin Myint; Soe Soe Thin; Pho Kaung; Sein Htoon

    2006-06-01

    Infrared spectroscopy investigation of silver - borate - tellurite glasses in the system 0.4 Ag2 O. 0.6 (x B2 O2. (1-x) TeO2) for various of x (0 < x < 1) has been performed in order to understand the glass modifying properties of the TeO2. In pure crystalline TeO2 spectra observed absorption bands at 780 cm-1 and 660 cm-1 have been ascribed to the stretching vibration of TeO bonds in the TeO4 units. In the glass 0.4 Ag2 O. 0.6 (x B2 O3. (1-x) TeO2) the bands at 700 cm-1 and 694 cm-1 are assigned to the symmetric breathing vibration of the boroxol group and the pentaborate one. The glasses show bands at 630 cm-1 which corresponds to the vibrations due to TeO4 units

  6. Transparent capacitors with hybrid ZnO:Al and Ag nanowires as electrodes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Guozhen; Wu, Hao; Wang, Xiao; Wang, Ti; Liu, Chang

    2016-01-01

    Transparent conducting films with a composite structure of AlZnO–Ag nanowires (AgNWs) have been prepared by atomic layer deposition. The sheet resistance was reduced from 120 to 9 Ω when the AgNW networks were involved. Transparent capacitors with Al_2O_3–TiO_2–Al_2O_3 dielectrics were fabricated on the composite electrodes and demonstrated a capacitance density of 10.1 fF μm"−"2, which was significantly higher than that of capacitors with AlZnO electrodes (8.8 fF μm"−"1). The capacitance density remained almost unchanged in a broad frequency range from 3 kHz to 1 MHz. Moreover, a low leakage current density of 2.4 × 10"−"7 A cm"−"2 at 1 V was achieved. Transparent and flexible capacitors were also fabricated using the composite electrodes, and demonstrated an improved bendability. The transparent capacitors showed an average optical transmittance over 70% in the visible range, and thus open the door to practical applications in transparent integrated circuits. (paper)

  7. Enhanced photodegradation activity of methyl orange over Ag2CrO4/SnS2 composites under visible light irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Luo, Jin; Zhou, Xiaosong; Ma, Lin; Xu, Xuyao; Wu, Jingxia; Liang, Huiping

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Novel visible-light-driven Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 composites are synthesized. • Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 exhibits higher photocatalytic activity than pure Ag 2 CrO 4 and SnS 2 . • Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 exhibits excellent stability for the photodegradation of MO. • The possible photocatalytic mechanism was discussed in detail. - Abstract: Novel Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 composites were prepared by a simple chemical precipitation method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The visible light photocatalytic tests showed that the Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 composites enhanced photocatalytic activities for the photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm), and the optimum rate constant of Ag 2 CrO 4 /SnS 2 at a weight content of 1.0% Ag 2 CrO 4 for the degradation of MO was 2.2 and 1.5 times larger than that of pure Ag 2 CrO 4 and SnS 2 , respectively. The improved activity could be attributed to high separation efficiency of photogenerated electrons-hole pairs on the interface of Ag 2 CrO 4 and SnS 2 , which arised from the synergistic effect between Ag 2 CrO 4 and SnS 2 . Moreover, the possible photocatalytic mechanism with superoxide radical anions and holes species as the main reactive species in photocatalysis process was proposed on the basis of experimental results.

  8. Ag nanoparticles-decorated ZnO nanorod array on a mechanical flexible substrate with enhanced optical and antimicrobial properties

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Yi; Tse, Wai Hei; Chen, Longyan; Zhang, Jin

    2015-03-01

    Heteronanostructured zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO NR) array are vertically grown on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) through a hydrothermal method followed by an in situ deposition of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) through a photoreduction process. The Ag-ZnO heterostructured nanorods on PDMS are measured with an average diameter of 160 nm and an average length of 2 μm. ZnO NRs measured by high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) shows highly crystalline with a lattice fringe of 0.255 nm, which corresponds to the (0002) planes in ZnO crystal lattice. The average diameter of the Ag NPs in situ deposited on the ZnO NRs is estimated at 22 ± 2 nm. As compared to the bare ZnO NRs, the heterostructured Ag-ZnO nanorod array shows enhanced ultraviolet (UV) absorption at 440 nm, and significant emission in the visible region (λem = 542 nm). In addition, the antimicrobial efficiency of Ag-ZnO heterostructured nanorod array shows obvious improvement as compared to bare ZnO nanorod array. The cytotoxicity of ZnO nanorod array with and without Ag NPs was studied by using 3 T3 mouse fibroblast cell line. No significant toxic effect is imposed on the cells.

  9. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) from Ag-doped Li2B4O7 crystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kananen, B.E.; Maniego, E.S.; Golden, E.M.; Giles, N.C.; McClory, J.W.; Adamiv, V.T.; Burak, Ya.V.; Halliburton, L.E.

    2016-01-01

    Optically stimulated luminescence (CW-OSL) is observed from Ag-doped lithium tetraborate (Li 2 B 4 O 7 ) crystals. Photoluminescence, optical absorption, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) are used to identify the defects participating in the OSL process. As-grown crystals have Ag + ions substituting for Li + ions. They also have Ag + ions occupying interstitial sites. During a room-temperature exposure to ionizing radiation, holes are trapped at the Ag + ions that replace Li + ions and electrons are trapped at the interstitial Ag + ions, i.e., the radiation forms Ag 2+ (4d 9 ) ions and Ag 0 (4d 10 5s 1 ) atoms. These Ag 2+ and Ag 0 centers have characteristic EPR spectra. The Ag 0 centers also have a broad optical absorption band peaking near 370 nm. An OSL response is observed when the stimulation wavelength overlaps this absorption band. Specifically, stimulation with 400 nm light produces an intense OSL response when emission is monitored near 270 nm. Electrons optically released from the Ag 0 centers recombine with holes trapped at Ag 2+ ions to produce the ultraviolet emission. The OSL response is progressively smaller as the stimulation light is moved to longer wavelengths (i.e., away from the 370 nm peak of the absorption band of the Ag 0 electron traps). Oxygen vacancies are also present in the Ag-doped Li 2 B 4 O 7 crystals, and their role in the OSL process as a secondary relatively short-lived electron trap is described.

  10. Antifungal activity of multifunctional Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Ag nanocolloids

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chudasama, Bhupendra, E-mail: bnchudasama@thapar.ed [School of Physics and Materials Science, Thapar University, Patiala 147004 (India); Vala, Anjana K.; Andhariya, Nidhi [Department of Physics, Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar 364022 (India); Upadhyay, R.V. [P.D. Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology, Changa 388421 (India); Mehta, R.V. [Department of Physics, Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar 364022 (India)

    2011-05-15

    In recent years, rapid increase has been observed in the population of microbes that are resistant to conventionally used antibiotics. Antifungal drug therapy is no exception and now resistance to many of the antifungal agents in use has emerged. Therefore, there is an inevitable and urgent medical need for antibiotics with novel antimicrobial mechanisms. Aspergillus glaucus is the potential cause of fatal brain infections and hypersensitivity pneumonitis in immunocompromised patients and leads to death despite aggressive multidrug antifungal therapy. In the present article, we describe the antifungal activity of multifunctional core-shell Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Ag nanocolloids against A. glaucus isolates. Controlled experiments are also carried out with Ag nanocolloids in order to understand the role of core (Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}) in the antifungal action. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of nanocolloids is determined by the micro-dilution method. MIC of A. glaucus is 2000 {mu}g/mL. The result is quite promising and requires further investigations in order to develop a treatment methodology against this death causing fungus in immunocompromised patients. - Research Highlights: Synthesis of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Ag core-shell nanocolloids. Antifungal activity of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Ag nanocolloids against Aspergillus glaucus isolates. The MIC value for A. glaucus is 2000 {mu}g/mL. Antifungal activity is better or comparable with most prominent antibiotics.

  11. Preparation of ZnO nanorods on conductive PET-ITO-Ag fibers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Yiwen; Ji, Shuai; Chen, Yuanyu; Zhang, Hong; Gong, Yumei; Guo, Jing

    2016-12-01

    We studied the vertical ZnO nanorods grown on conductive conventional polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers which are prepared by electroless silver depositing on tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) coated PET fibers through an efficient and low-cost green approach. The PET fibers were firstly functionalized with a layer of ITO gel synthesized through a sol-gel process at rather low temperature, simply by immersing the fibers into ITO sol for several minutes followed by gelation at 120 °C. Once the ITO gel layer surface was activated by SnCl2, a continuous, uniform, and compact layer of silver was carried out on the surface of the PET-ITO fibers through electroless plating operation at room temperature. The as-prepared PET-ITO-Ag fibers had good electrical conductivity, with surface resistivity as low as 0.23 mΩ cm. The overall procedure is simple, efficient, nontoxic, and controllable. The conductive PET-ITO-Ag fiber was used successfully as a flexible basal material to plant vertical ZnO nanorods through controlling the seeding and growth processes. The morphology of the PET-ITO, PET-ITO-Ag, and PET-ITO-Ag-ZnO fibers were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Undergone the whole process, although the tensile strength of the fiber decreased slightly, they may still exert their applications in flexible electronic such as photovoltaic and piezoelectric devices.

  12. Nonvolatile conductive filaments resistive switching behaviors in Ag/GaO{sub x} /Nb:SrTiO{sub 3}/Ag structure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, P.G. [Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, State Key Laboratory of Information Photonics and Optical Communication, Beijing (China); Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Center for Optoelectronics Materials and Devices, Hangzhou (China); Zhi, Y.S.; An, Y.H.; Guo, D.Y.; Tang, W.H.; Xiao, J.H. [Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, State Key Laboratory of Information Photonics and Optical Communication, Beijing (China); Wang, P.C. [Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Center for Optoelectronics Materials and Devices, Hangzhou (China); Sun, Z.B. [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Laboratory of Electronics and Information Technology for Space Systems, National Space Science Center, Beijing (China); Li, L.H. [State University of New York at Potsdam, Department of Physics, Potsdam, NY (United States)

    2016-07-15

    Ag/GaO{sub x} /NSTO/Ag structures were fabricated, and the electrical properties measurement results show that the device behaviors a unipolar resistance switching characteristic with bi-stable resistance ratio of three orders. In the positive voltage region, the dominant conducting mechanism of high resistance state obeys Poole-Frenkel emission rules, while in the negative region, that obeys space-charge-limited current mechanism. Both the I-V curves of ON and OFF states and temperature-dependent variation resistances indicate that the unipolar resistance switching behavior can be explained by the formation/rupture of conductive filaments, which composed of oxygen vacancies. The stable switching results demonstrated that the structure can be applied in resistance random access memory devices. (orig.)

  13. Target swapping in PLD: An efficient approach for CdS/SiO2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO2 nanocomposite thin films with enhanced luminescent properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Saxena, Nupur; Kumar, Pragati; Gupta, Vinay

    2017-01-01

    A novel synthesis method for luminescent and by-products (like CdO) free CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 (i.e. 1%Ag doped CdS/SiO 2 ) nanocomposite thin films at room temperature by pulsed laser deposition is reported. Targets of CdS, CdS:Ag(1%) and SiO 2 are used to deposit CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 nanocomposite thin films by swapping them at a frequency ratio of 2:8 laser pulses/sec. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis ensures the ratio of CdS to SiO 2 in nanocomposite as 21:79 which is nearly same as the ratio of incident pulses/sec (i.e. 2:8) on the two targets. Transmission electron micrographs visualize the formation of CdS/ CdS:Ag(1%) nanocrystals in nanocomposite systems after annealing at 500 °C. Highly intense and broad red emission is achieved from CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 nanocomposites. The efficiencies of emission from pristine CdS:SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 nanocomposites are found to be enhanced by approximately two times as compared to sole nanocrystalline CdS and CdS:Ag(1%) thin films respectively and further enhanced upto 7 times on annealing the nanocomposite systems at 500 °C. - Graphical abstract: A modified synthesis method for luminescent and by-products (like CdO) free undoped &1% Ag doped CdS/SiO 2 (deposit CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 ) nanocomposite thin films at room temperature by pulsed laser deposition is reported. Targets of CdS or CdS:Ag(1%) and SiO 2 are used to deposit CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 nanocomposite thin films by swapping them at a frequency of 2:8 pulses/sec. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis ensures the ratio of CdS to SiO 2 in nanocomposite as 21:79 which is nearly same as the ratio of incident pulses/sec (2:8) on the two targets. Transmission electron micrographs visualize the formation of CdS nanocrystals in nanocomposite systems after annealing at 500 °C. Intense and broad red emission is achieved from deposit CdS/SiO 2 and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO 2 nanocomposites. The efficiency of

  14. Thermal expansion properties of Bi-2212 in Ag or an Ag-alloy matrix

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tenbrink, J.; Krauth, H.

    1994-01-01

    The thermal expansion properties of polycrystalline Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 1 Cu 2 O 8+x melt-processed bulk specimens, and Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 1 Cu 2 O 8+x monocore as well as multifilamentary round wires in Ag or Ag-alloy matrix have been investigated over the temperature range from -150 to 800 degrees C. Although the thermal expansion of Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 1 Cu 2 O 8+x is distinctly lower compared with Ag, the thermal expansion properties of the Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 1 Cu 2 O 8+x -Ag or AgNiMg-alloy composite conductors are essentially governed by the matrix material. The thermal expansion of the encountered oxide-dispersion-strengthened AgNiMg alloys is only slightly lower compared with that of pure Ag. Therefore the thermal expansion of all investigated Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 1 Cu 2 O 8+x -Ag or Ag-alloy composite wires was found to be close to that of pure Ag. The reason for this striking behaviour is shown to be related to a surprisingly low elastic modulus of the polycrystalline Bi-2212 wire cores of the order of 10 to a maximum 40 GPa. (author)

  15. Photocatalytic characteristics for the nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} on the Ag-doped CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:(Eu,Nd) phosphor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Jung-Sik, E-mail: jskim@uos.ac.kr; Sung, Hyun-Je; Kim, Bum-Joon

    2015-04-15

    Highlights: • The photocatalytic reactivity of the TiO{sub 2}-coated on the Ag-doped long-lasting phosphor (CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+}). • The photodecomposition of benzene gas under visible light irradiation. • The TiO{sub 2}-coated on the Ag-doped long-lasting phosphor showed much higher photocatalytic reactivity. • The light emitted from the long-lasting phosphors contributed to the photo generation of TiO{sub 2}. - Abstract: This study investigated the photocatalytic behavior of nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} deposited on Ag-doped long-lasting phosphor (CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+}). The CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+} phosphor powders were prepared via conventional sintering using CaCO{sub 3}, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, Eu{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and Nd{sub 2}O{sub 3} as raw materials according to the appropriate molar ratios. Silver nanoparticles were loaded on the phosphor by mixing with an aqueous Ag-dispersion solution. Nanocrystalline TiO{sub 2} was deposited on Ag-doped CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+} powders via low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD). The TiO{sub 2} coated on the phosphor was actively photo-reactive under irradiation with visible light and showed much faster benzene degradation than pure TiO{sub 2}, which is almost non-reactive. The coupling of TiO{sub 2} with phosphor may result in an energy band bending in the junction region, which then induces the TiO{sub 2} crystal at the interface to be photo-reactive under irradiation with visible light. In addition, the intermetallic compound of CaTiO{sub 3} that formed at the interface between TiO{sub 2} and the CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:(Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+}) phosphor results in the formation of oxygen vacancies and additional electrons that promote the photodecomposition of benzene gas. The addition of Ag nanoparticles enhanced the photocatalytic reactivity of the TiO{sub 2}/CaAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}:Eu{sup 2+},Nd{sup 3+} phosphor. TiO{sub 2} on the Ag

  16. Study on the proliferation of human gastric cancer cell AGS by activation of EGFR in H2O2.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Q; Shen, W; Tao, G-Q; Sun, J; Shi, L-P

    2017-03-01

    This study is to investigate the effect of low concentration hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on the proliferation of gastric cancer AGS cell line in vitro and the mechanism. AGS cells were treated with different low concentrations of H2O2 (1, 0.1, 0.01, and 0.001 μm) for 48 hours. The effect of H2O2 concentration gradient on the activity of AGS cell activities was detected by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) method. The expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its downstream signaling pathway extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) protein in H2O2 was detected by Western blot method; moreover, the effect of H2O2 on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in AGS cells was observed under the fluorescence microscope and quantitative analysis by flow cytometry. The effect of H2O2 on the level of c-myc mRNA in AGS cells was also detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). MTT detection results showed that 1 μm and 0.1 μm H2O2 at 48h can effectively promote the proliferation of AGS cells (pH2O2 treatment of AGS cells, the EGFR protein levels and ERK protein phosphorylation levels increased significantly (pH2O2 increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). RT-PCR results showed the levels of c-myc mRNA in AGS cells treated with a low concentration of H2O2 were significantly increased (pH2O2 can significantly promote the proliferation of AGS cells by activating EGFR/ERK signaling pathway.

  17. An effective surface-enhanced Raman scattering template based on a Ag nanocluster-ZnO nanowire array

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Deng, S; Zhang, X; Loh, K P; Fan, H M; Sow, C H; Cheng, C-L; Foo, Y L

    2009-01-01

    An effective surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) template based on a 3D hybrid Ag nanocluster (NC)-decorated ZnO nanowire array was fabricated through a simple process of depositing Ag NCs on ZnO nanowire arrays. The effects of particle size and excitation energy on the Raman scattering in these hybrid systems have been investigated using rhodamine 6G as a standard analyte. The results indicate that the hybrid nanosystem with 150 nm Ag NCs produces a larger SERS enhancement factor of 3.2 x 10 8 , which is much higher than that of 10 nm Ag NCs (6.0 x 10 6 ) under 532 nm excitation energy. The hybrid nanowire arrays were further applied to obtain SERS spectra of the two-photon absorption (TPA) chromophore T7. Finite-difference time-domain simulations reveal the presence of an enhanced field associated with inter-wire plasmon coupling of the 150 nm Ag NCs on adjacent ZnO nanowires; such a field was absent in the case of the 10 nm Ag NC-coated ZnO nanowire. Such hybrid nanosystems could be used as SERS substrates more effectively than assembled Ag NC film due to the enhanced light-scattering local field and the inter-wire plasmon-enhanced electromagnetic field.

  18. Improved critical current of YBaCuO thick-films and ceramics by the addition of Ag

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Dwir, B.; Kellett, B.; Mieville, L.; Pavuna, D.

    1991-01-01

    In a series of papers we have discussed the importance of Ag for contacts and analyzed the resistivity, magnetization, critical current density and percolation properties of YBCO-Ag ceramics. This work has been followed by investigation of electrical and structural properties of thick-films containing Ag in their composition. Here we summarize the most important of our results: In YBCO-Ag ceramic compounds, silver fills the intergranular space (voids), improving the YBaCuO compactness and enhancing the critical current density. These properties are mostly enhanced at 10-20% wt% Ag. The reduction in normal-state resistivity can be described well by 3D percolation theory with a critical concentration of ≅20%. In thick films, prepared by spinning YBaCuO powders on a substrate, adding silver (in the form of Ag 2 O) to the powder mixture improves both T c and J c (by up to 50%), as well as resistivity and resistivity slope. The structural properties, like amount of secondary phases and micro-crack density, are also improved by the addition of Ag. (orig.)

  19. Fabrication of visible-light-driven Ag/TiO{sub 2} heterojunction composites induced by shock wave

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xu, Chunxiao [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081 (China); Chen, Pengwan, E-mail: pwchen@bit.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081 (China); State Key Laboratory of Explosion Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081 (China); Liu, Jianjun [State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029 (China); Yin, Hao [Institute of Systems Engineering, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang 612900, Sichuan Province (China); Gao, Xin; Mei, Xiaofeng [State Key Laboratory of Explosion Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081 (China)

    2016-09-15

    Using metatitanic acid (H{sub 2}TiO{sub 3}) and silver nitrate (AgNO{sub 3}) as titanium precursor and silver source respectively, a visible-light responsible Ag/TiO{sub 2} heterojunction photocatalyst is successfully prepared by shock wave with detonation-driven flyer impact. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra are employed to characterize the phase structure, morphology, chemical composition and optical property of the recovered samples. The results indicate the metatitanic acid transforms to pure rutile TiO{sub 2} phase by shock wave which possess large surface area. Ag nanoparticles cover on the surface of TiO{sub 2} uniformly and a nanojunction structure is formed efficiently, which play important roles as an electron-conduction bridge and in the surface plasmon resonance effect. Ag modification feasibly improves the separation efficiency for photoinduced electron–hole pairs and enhances the visible-light response. Furthermore, due to the further enhanced separation for photogenerated charges resulting from close interfacial contact of the hetero structure, the obtained Ag/TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst exhibit remarkably improved photocatalytic activities (88% within 2 h) than that of P25 and shock induced pure TiO{sub 2} for the degradation of Rhodamine B under simulated sunlight irradiation. The experimental result shows the shock loading is an effective method to get Ag/TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst and offers new ideas to fabricate other heterojunction composite materials. - Highlights: • Shock wave was a new method of material modification. • The Ag/TiO{sub 2} hetero structure was formed efficiently by shock loading. • The visible-light responsible sample showed an enhanced photocatalytic activity. • This work gave new ideas to fabricate other heterojunction materials.

  20. Synthesis and characterization of highly efficient and stable Pr6O11/Ag3PO4/Pt ternary hybrid structure

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Deng, Jiatao; Liu, Lin; Niu, Tongjun; Sun, Xiaosong

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Visible-light-driven Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt photocatalysts were prepared. • Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt showed highly efficient and stable photocatalystic activity. • The photocatalytic mechanism of Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt composite was given. - Abstract: Ag 3 PO 4 is an excellent photocatalyst with high efficiency and quantum yield, but suffers from the fast recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and photo-corrosion. Hereby, the highly efficient and stable visible-light-driven Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt photocatalyst were prepared via a three-step wet chemical approach. The as-prepared Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, US-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectra and transient photocurrent as well. Comparing with single Pr 6 O 11 or Ag 3 PO 4 , the prepared Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt composite exhibited much higher photocatalytic activity and stability for the degradation of Rhodamine B under visible light irradiation (>420 nm). The enhanced photocatalytic performance of Pr 6 O 11 /Ag 3 PO 4 /Pt composite has been attributed to the efficient separation of photo-generated electron-hole pairs through a scheme system composed of Pr 6 O 11, Ag 3 PO 4 and Pt.

  1. The effect of Ag layer thickness on the properties of WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} multilayer films as anode in organic light emitting diodes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zadsar, Mehdi, E-mail: mehdi_zadsar@yahoo.com [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Fallah, Hamid Reza; Mahmoodzadeh, Morteza Haji [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Quantum Optics Research Group, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Tabatabaei, Seyed Vahid [Physics Department, University of Isfahan, Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic of)

    2012-04-15

    Transparent conductive WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} (WAM) multilayer electrodes were fabricated by thermal evaporation and the effects of Ag layer thickness on the optoelectronic and structural properties of multilayer electrode as anode in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) were investigated using different analytical methods. For Ag layers with thickness varying between 5 and 20 nm, the best WAM performances, high optical transmittance (81.7%, at around 550 nm), and low electrical sheet resistance (9.75 {Omega}/cm{sup 2}) were obtained for 15 nm thickness. Also, the WAM structure with 15 nm of Ag layer thickness has a very smooth surface with an RMS roughness of 0.37 nm, which is suitable for use as transparent conductive anode in OLEDs. The current density-voltage-luminance (J-V-L) characteristics measurement shows that the current density of WAM/PEDOT:PSS/TPD/Alq{sub 3}/LiF/Al organic diode increases with the increase in thickness of Ag and WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} device exhibits a higher luminance intensity at lower voltage than ITO/PEDOT:PSS/TPD/Alq{sub 3}/LiF/Al control device. Furthermore, this device shows the highest power efficiency (0.31 lm/W) and current efficiency (1.2 cd/A) at the current density of 20 mA/cm{sup 2}, which is improved 58% and 41% compared with those of the ITO-based device, respectively. The lifetime of the WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} device was measured to be 50 h at an initial luminance of 50 cd/m{sup 2}, which is five times longer than 10 h for ITO-based device. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Investigation of Ag thickness effect on the properties of WO{sub 3}/Ag/MoO{sub 3} films. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Electrical conductivity of multilayer films increases with increasing Ag thickness. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Optical transmittance increases by Ag thickness and at 15 nm, reaches 81.7%. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Power efficiency of WO{sub 3}/Ag (15 nm)/MoO{sub 3} based devices is higher than that of

  2. Cube-like Fe3O4@SiO2@Au@Ag magnetic nanoparticles: a highly efficient SERS substrate for pesticide detection

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Mei; Zhao, Aiwu; Wang, Dapeng; Wang, Jin; Chen, Ping; Sun, Henghui

    2018-04-01

    As a novel surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) nanocomposite, cube-like Fe3O4@SiO2@Au@Ag magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized for the first time. Cube-like α-Fe2O3 NPs with uniform size were achieved by optimizing reaction temperature and time. Firstly, the cube-like Fe3O4@SiO2 with good dispersity was achieved by calcining α-Fe2O3@SiO2 NPs in hydrogen atmosphere at 360 °C for 2.5 h, followed by self-assembling a PEI shell via sonication. Furthermore, the Au@Ag particles were densely assembled on the Fe3O4@SiO2 NPs to form the Fe3O4@SiO2@Au@Ag composite structure via strong Ag-N interaction. The obtained nanocomposites exhibited an excellent SERS behavior, reflected by the low detection of limit (p-ATP) at the 5 × 10-14 M level. Moreover, these nanocubes were used for the detection of thiram, and the detection limit can reach 5 × 10-11 M. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency specifies that the residue in fruit must be lower than 7 ppm. Hence, the resulting substrate with high SERS activity has great practical potential applications in the rapid detection of chemical, biological, and environment pollutants with a simple portable Raman instrument at trace level.

  3. Effect of γ-radiation on electrical properties in glasses of AgI-Ag2O-V2O5-P2-O5 system

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    El-Shaarawy, M.G.; Bayoumy, W.A.A.

    2004-01-01

    Five glasses of the AgI-Ag 2 O-V 2 O 5 -P 2 O 5 system exhibiting mixed electronic-ionic conduction were prepared and irradiated by γ-rays. The structures of the irradiated and unirradiated glasses were studied using density, FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron spin resonance (ESR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The electrical conductivity (σ), dielectric constant (ε') and dielectric loss (ε'') for the irradiated and unirradiated glasses are also investigated over a temperature range between 300-380 K and at a frequency from dc to 10 6 Hz. Both components of ionic σ i and electronic σ e conductivities were separated from the total conductivity σ tot =σ i + σ e using impedance spectroscopy method. The temperature dependencies of electronic and ionic conductivities as well as corresponding transference numbers were studied. The activation energy values E e and E i for both conduction processes were determined. The temperature dependence of ε' showed an increase in ε' with T. Each of ε' and ε'' was found to be dependent on the composition of the glass matrix. The effect of both γ-radiation and the framework composition of the glass on the electrical properties have been discussed. (author)

  4. Magneto-optical and catalytic properties of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag magnetic nanocomposite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Amir, Md., E-mail: mdamir01031001@gmail.com [Department of Chemistry, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey); Bio & Nanotechnology Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University, 34452 Beyazıt/Fatih-İstanbul (Turkey); Güner, S. [Department of Physics, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey); Yıldız, A. [Department of Textile Engineering, Namık Kemal University, 59860 Çorlu-Tekirdağ, Turkey (Turkey); Baykal, A. [Department of Chemistry, Fatih University, 34500 B.Çekmece-İstanbul, Turkey (Turkey)

    2017-01-01

    Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag magnetic nanocomposites (MNCs) were successfully synthesized by the simple reflux method for the removal of azo dyes from the industrial aqueous media. Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs exhibited high catalytic activity to reduce MB within 20 min from the waste water. The obtained materials were characterized by the means of different techniques. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the single-phase of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} spinel structure. SEM and TEM analysis indicated that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs were nanoparticles like structure with small agglomeration. TG result showed that the products contained 9% of HA. The characteristic peaks of HA at 1601 cm{sup −1} and 1703 cm{sup −1} was observed by the means of FT-IR spectra of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@AgMNCs. The hysteresis (σ–H) curves revealed Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs exhibit a typical superparamagnetic characteristic with a saturation magnetization of 59.11 emu/g and measured magnetic moment is 2.45 µ{sub B}. The average magnetic particle dimension (D{sub mag}) is 13.25 nm. In accordance, the average crystallite and particle dimensions were obtained as 11.50 nm and 13.10 nm from XRD and TEM measurements, respectively. Magnetocrystalline anisotropy was offered as uniaxial and calculated effective anisotropy constant (K{sub eff}) is 2.96×10{sup 5} Erg/g. The blocking temperature was estimated as 522 K. The size-dependent saturation magnetization suggests the existence of a magnetically dead layer as 0.793 nm for Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs. The UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Kubelka–Munk theory were applied to determine the optical properties of powder samples. The direct optical energy band gap (E{sub g}) values were estimated from Tauc plots between 1.62 eV and 2.12 eV. - Graphical abstract: An illustration for the fabrication of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@HA@Ag MNCs. - Highlights: • The reduction of azo dye such Methylene Blue was instantly completed with

  5. Photocatalytic performance of graphene/TiO_2-Ag composites on amaranth dye degradation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Roşu, Marcela-Corina; Socaci, Crina; Floare-Avram, Veronica; Borodi, Gheorghe; Pogăcean, Florina; Coroş, Maria; Măgeruşan, Lidia; Pruneanu, Stela

    2016-01-01

    Ternary nanocomposites containing TiO_2, silver and graphene with different reduction levels were prepared and used as photocatalysts for amaranth azo dye degradation, under UV and natural light exposure. The obtained materials were characterized by TEM, XRD, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy, confirming the successful formation of the nanocomposites. HPLC analysis along with UV-Vis spectroscopy were employed to quantify the concentration of non-degraded dye in solution. The graphene/TiO_2-Ag nanocomposites proved to have remarkable photocatalytic activities for amaranth degradation under UV and solar irradiation (85.3–98% of dye has disappeared in the first 2 h). Also, significant removal efficiencies (between 40.5 and 71.8%) of photocatalysts, in day light conditions, were demonstrated. The best result for amaranth dye degradation was obtained with the reduced graphene/TiO_2-Ag catalyst (up to 99.9%). Based on the degradation products analysis, a photodegradation pathway of amaranth dye was also proposed. - Highlights: • Graphene/TiO_2-Ag composites were prepared by a combined chemical-thermal method. • The composites showed improved light-absorption characteristics. • A significant degradation performance of amaranth was obtained with these composites under UV and natural light exposure. • Graphene/TiO_2-Ag composites offer a high potential for various photocatalytic applications in pollutant removal processes.

  6. The green synthesis of Ag/ZnO in montmorillonite with enhanced photocatalytic activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sohrabnezhad, Sh.; Seifi, A.

    2016-11-01

    The Ag/ZnO-MMT nanocomposite was prepared using urtica dioica leaf extract. To improve the photocatalytic properties of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite, silver metal nanoparticles was deposited over nanocomposite. Zn(CH3COO)2, AgNO3 and Urtica dioica leaf extract were used as a zinc, silver precursor and reducing agent, respectively. The nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The powder X-ray diffraction showed that Ag/ZnO nanoparticles located on the surface MMT layers. The diffuse reflectance spectra of nanocomposite indicated a strong surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption band in the visible region, resulting from metallic Ag nanoparticles. TEM image demonstrated the presence of silver nanoparticles with an average size of 2-4 nm over both MMT and flower-shape ZnO. The photocatalytic activity of nanocomposite was studied for destructive reaction methylene blue dye under visible light. In addition, the effects of different parameters such as amount of nanocomposite, concentration of the dye and pH of the solution were studied. The results showed that modiffication of ZnO-MMT nanocomposite with silver nanoparticles increased the percentage of discoloration methylene blue (MB) from 38.95 to 91.95. MMT matrix showed an important role in the reduction of recombination of electron-hole in nanocomposite.

  7. Thermal-induced SPR tuning of Ag-ZnO nanocomposite thin film for plasmonic applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Singh, S. K.; Singhal, R.

    2018-05-01

    The formation of silver (Ag) nanoparticles in a ZnO matrix were successfully synthesized by RF-magnetron sputtering at room temperature. As prepared Ag-ZnO nanocomposite (NCs) thin films were annealed in vacuum at three different temperatures of 300 °C, 400 °C and 500 °C, respectively. The structural modifications for as-deposited and annealed films were estimated by X-ray diffraction and TEM techniques. The crystalline behavior preferably along the c-axis of the hexagonal wurtzite structure was observed in as-deposited Ag-ZnO film and improved significantly with increasing the annealing temperature. The crystallite size of as-deposited film was measured to be 13.6 nm, and increases up to 28.5 nm at higher temperatures. The chemical composition and surface structure of the as-deposited films were estimated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The presence of Ag nanoparticles with average size of 8.2 ± 0.2 nm, was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The strong surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band was observed at the wavelength of ∼565 nm for as-deposited film and a remarkable red shift of ∼22 nm was recorded after the annealing treatment as confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy. Atomic force microscopy confirmed the grain growth from 60.38 nm to 79.42 nm for as-deposited and higher temperature annealed film respectively, with no significant change in the surface roughness. Thermal induced modifications such as disordering and lattice defects in Ag-ZnO NCs thin films were carried out by Raman spectroscopy. High quality Ag-ZnO NCs thin films with minimum strain and tunable optical properties could be useful in various plasmonic applications.

  8. Synthesis of Ag ion-implanted TiO{sub 2} thin films for antibacterial application and photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hou, Xinggang, E-mail: hou226@mail.tjnu.edu.cn [Department of Physics, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387 (China); Ma, Huiyan; Liu, Feng; Deng, Jianhua; Ai, Yukai; Zhao, Xinlei; Mao, Dong; Li, Dejun [Department of Physics, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387 (China); Liao, Bin [Key Laboratory of Beam Technology and Material Modification of Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875 (China)

    2015-12-15

    Highlights: • Implanted TiO{sub 2} films with excellent antibacterial and photocatalytic ability was prepared. • Bactericidal effect of released Ag ions was confirmed using VC as radical scavenger. • Excitation of TiO{sub 2} to visible region is attributed to subtitutional Ag. • Synergetic effect of Ag{sup 3+} and Ag{sup +} accounts for the enhanced ability of TiO{sub 2}. - Abstract: TiO{sub 2} thin films were deposited by spin coating method. Silver ions were implanted into the films using a Metal Vapor Vacuum Arc implanter. The antibacterial ability of implanted films was tested using Escherichia coli removal under fluorescent irradiation and in the dark. The concentration of E. coli was evaluated by plating technique. The photocatalytic efficiency of the implanted films was studied by degradation of methyl orange under fluorescent illumination. The surface free energy of the implanted TiO{sub 2} films was calculated by contact angle testing. Vitamin C was used as radical scavengers to explore the antibacterial mechanism of the films. The results supported the model that both generation of reactive oxygen species and release of silver ions played critical roles in the toxic effect of implanted films against E. coli. XPS experimental results demonstrated that a portion of the Ag(Ag{sup 3+}) ions were doped into the crystalline lattice of TiO{sub 2}. As demonstrated by density functional theory calculations, the impurity energy level of subtitutional Ag was responsible for enhanced absorption of visible light. Ag ion-implanted TiO{sub 2} films with excellent antibacterial efficiency against bacteria and decomposed ability against organic pollutants could be potent bactericidal surface in moist environment.

  9. Facile synthesis and enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity of micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Jin [School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070 (China); The Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Functional Materials and Applications, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou 466001 (China); Zhang, Gaoke, E-mail: gkzhang@whut.edu.cn [School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070 (China)

    2015-03-15

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres were synthesized by a facile method. • The formation mechanism for the Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres was investigated. • The catalyst exhibited an enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The reactive species in the photocatalytic process were studied. - Abstract: Micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres were successfully synthesized by a one-step and low-temperature route under ambient pressure. The micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres have a diameter of 1–2 μm and their shells are composed of numerous nanoparticles and nanorods. The growth process of the micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres was investigated in detail. The results indicated that the morphologies and composition of Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} samples were strongly dependent on the dose of the AgNO{sub 3} and reaction time. Excessive AgNO{sub 3} was favorable for the nucleation and growth rate of Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} crystals and the formation of pure Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4}. Moreover, the formation mechanism of the micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres is related to the Ostwald ripening. Under the same conditions, the photocatalytic activity of micro/nanostructured Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} hollow spheres is about 1.7 times and 11 times higher than that of bulk Ag{sub 2}ZnGeO{sub 4} and Degussa P25, respectively. These interesting findings could provide new insight on the synthesis of micro/nanostructured ternary-metal oxides with enhanced photocatalytic activity.

  10. Photoelectron spectroscopy study of thin Ag films deposited on to amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O surface

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kang, Se Jun [Department of Physics, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784 (Korea, Republic of); Baik, Jaeyoon; Ha, Taekyun; Park, Chong Do [Pohang Accelerator Laboratory, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784 (Korea, Republic of); Shin, Hyun-Joon, E-mail: shj001@postech.ac.kr [Department of Physics, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784 (Korea, Republic of); Pohang Accelerator Laboratory, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 790-784 (Korea, Republic of); Chung, JaeGwan; Lee, Jaecheol [A E Group, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Giheung-Gu, Yongin-Si, GyeingGi-Do 449-712 (Korea, Republic of)

    2014-11-03

    Ag was thermally evaporated onto amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O (a-IGZO) thin film, and the Ag-thickness (< 0.3 nm)-dependent chemical states of the Ag-deposited a-IGZO thin-film surfaces were investigated by high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As Ag layer thickness increased, Ag 3d shifted towards the lower binding energy (BE) side and In 3d developed a lower-BE component; however, O 1s, Ga 3d, and Zn 3d showed much smaller spectral feature changes than Ag 3d or In 3d. The analysis suggests that Ag atoms preferentially interact and share electrons with In atoms. The Ag 4d split feature at the valence band and the metallic states near the Fermi edge were noticeably visible when the Ag thickness was greater than 0.1 nm. - Highlights: • Ag was deposited on a-IGZO thin film using thermal evaporation method. • Chemical state changes of Ag-deposited a-IGZO were investigated by XPS. • As Ag layer thickness increased, In 3d developed a lower-BE component. • As Ag layer thickness increased, Ag 3d shifted towards the lower BE side. • Ag atoms preferentially interact and share electrons with In atoms.

  11. Ag3PO4/ZnO: An efficient visible-light-sensitized composite with its application in photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Wei; Wang, Mingliang; Xu, Chunxiang; Chen, Shifu; Fu, Xianliang

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: The free OH radicals generated in the VB of ZnO play the primary role in the visible-light photocatalytic degradation of RhB in Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO system. The accumulated electrons in the CB of Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to O 2 adsorbed on the surface of the composite semiconductors and H 2 O 2 yields. H 2 O 2 reacts with electrons in succession to produce active ·OH to some extent. Display Omitted Highlights: ► Efficient visible-light-sensitized Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO composites were successfully prepared. ► Effect of Ag 3 PO 4 content on the catalytic activity of Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO is studied in detail. ► Rate constant of RhB degradation over Ag 3 PO 4 (3.0 wt.%)/ZnO is 3 times that of Ag 3 PO 4 . ► The active species in RhB degradation are examined by adding a series of scavengers. ► Visible light degradation mechanism of RhB over Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO is systematically studied. -- Abstract: The efficient visible-light-sensitized Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO composites with various weight percents of Ag 3 PO 4 were prepared by a facile ball milling method. The photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, DRS, SEM, EDS, XPS, and BET specific area. The ·OH radicals produced during the photocatalytic reaction was detected by the TA–PL technique. The photocatalytic property of Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO was evaluated by photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B under visible light irradiation. Significantly, the results revealed that the photocatalytic activity of the composites was much higher than that of pure Ag 3 PO 4 and ZnO. The rate constant of RhB degradation over Ag 3 PO 4 (3.0 wt.%)/ZnO is 3 times that of single-phase Ag 3 PO 4 . The optimal percentage of Ag 3 PO 4 in the composite is 3.0 wt.%. It is proposed that the ·OH radicals produced in the valence band of ZnO play the leading role in the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B by Ag 3 PO 4 /ZnO systems under visible light irradiation.

  12. Sol-Gel-Assisted Microwave-Derived Synthesis of Anatase Ag/TiO2/GO Nanohybrids toward Efficient Visible Light Phenol Degradation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    E. H. Alsharaeh

    2017-05-01

    Full Text Available Abstract: A simple microwave-assisted (MWI wet chemical route to synthesize pure anatase phase titanium dioxide (TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs is reported here using titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4 as starting material. The as-prepared TiO2 NPs were characterized by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, UV/visible absorption spectroscopy, and infrared and Raman spectroscopic techniques. Further modification of the anatase TiO2 NPs was carried out by incorporating plasmonic silver (Ag NPs and graphene oxide (GO in order to enhance the visible light absorption. The photocatalytic activities of the anatase TiO2, Ag/TiO2, and Ag/TiO2/GO nanocomposites were evaluated under both ultraviolet (UV and visible light irradiation using phenol as a model contaminant. The presence of Ag NPs was found to play a significant role to define the photocatalytic activity of the Ag/TiO2/GO nanocomposite. It was found that the Ag performed like a sink under UV excitation and stored photo-generated electrons from TiO2, whereas, under visible light excitation, the Ag acted as a photosensitizer enhancing the photocatalytic activity of the nanocomposite. The detailed mechanism was studied based on photocatalytic activities of Ag/TiO2/GO nanocomposites. Therefore, the as-prepared Ag/TiO2/GO nanocomposite was used as photocatalytic materials under both UV and visible light irradiation toward degradation of organic molecules.

  13. Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells Based on TiO2/AgInS2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pawar, Sachin A.; Jeong, Jae Pil; Patil, Dipali S.; More, Vivek M.; Lee, Rochelle S.; Shin, Jae Cheol; Choi, Won Jun

    2018-05-01

    Quantum dot heterojunctions with type-II band alignment can efficiently separate photogenerated electron-hole pairs and, hence, are useful for solar cell studies. In this study, a quantum dot sensitized solar cell (QDSSC) made of TiO2/AgInS2 is achieved to boost the photoconversion efficiency for the TiO2-based system by varying the AgInS2 layer's thickness. The TiO2 nanorods array film is prepared by using a simple hydrothermal technique. The formation of a AgInS2 QD-sensitized TiO2-nanorod photoelectrode is carried out by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The effect of the QD layer on the performance of the solar cell is studied by varying the SILAR cycles of the QD coating. The synthesized electrode materials are characterized by using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and solar cell performances. The results indicate that the nanocrystals have effectively covered the outer surfaces of the TiO2 nanorods. The interfacial structure of quantum dots (QDs)/TiO2 is also investigated, and the growth interface is verified. A careful comparison between TiO2/AgInS2 sensitized cells reveals that the trasfer of electrons and hole proceeds efficiently, the recombination is suppressed for the optimum thickness of the QD layer and light from the entire visible spectrum is utilised. Under AM 1.5G illumination, a high photocurrent of 1.36 mAcm-2 with an improved power conversion efficiency of 0.48% is obtained. The solar cell properties of our photoanodes suggest that the TiO2 nanorod array films co-sensitized by AgInS2 nanoclusters have potential applications in solar cells.

  14. Computational investigation of CO adsorbed on Aux, Agx and (AuAg)x nanoclusters (x = 1 - 5, 147) and monometallic Au and Ag low-energy surfaces*

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gould, Anna L.; Catlow, C. Richard A.; Logsdail, Andrew J.

    2018-02-01

    Density functional theory calculations have been performed to investigate the use of CO as a probe molecule for the determination of the structure and composition of Au, Ag and AuAg nanoparticles. For very small nanoclusters (x = 1 - 5), the CO vibrational frequencies can be directly correlated to CO adsorption strength, whereas larger 147-atom nanoparticles show a strong energetic preference for CO adsorption at a vertex position but the highest wavenumbers are for the bridge positions. We also studied CO adsorption on Au and Ag (100) and (111) surfaces, for a 1 monolayer coverage, which proves to be energetically favourable on atop only and bridge positions for Au (100) and atop for Ag (100); vibrational frequencies of the CO molecules red-shift to lower wavenumbers as a result of increased metal coordination. We conclude that CO vibrational frequencies cannot be solely relied upon in order to obtain accurate compositional analysis, but we do propose that elemental rearrangement in the core@shell nanoclusters, from Ag@Au (or Au@Ag) to an alloy, would result in a shift in the CO vibrational frequencies that indicate changes in the surface composition. Contribution to the Topical Issue "Shaping Nanocatalysts", edited by Francesca Baletto, Roy L. Johnston, Jochen Blumberger and Alex Shluger.Supplementary material in the form of one pdf file available from the Journal web page at http://https://doi.org/10.1140/epjb/e2017-80280-7

  15. Reduced graphene oxide enwrapped pinecone-liked Ag3PO4/TiO2 composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability under visible light

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ma, Ni; Qiu, Yiwei; Zhang, Yichao; Liu, Hanyang; Yang, Yana; Wang, Jingwei; Li, Xiaoyun; Cui, Can

    2015-01-01

    Ag 3 PO 4 possesses high photocatalytic activity under visible light, but its application is limited by photogenerated charges recombination, photocorrosion as well as consumption of noble Ag. It is of great interesting to develop new Ag 3 PO 4 -based photocatalysts with high charges separation efficiency, good stability and low content of Ag. In this paper, we report a novel Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /reduced graphene oxide (Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO) photocatalyst. It exhibits advantages on both the microstructure and the charges separation. The microstructure shows that TiO 2 spheres of hundreds of nanometers in size are decorated with dense nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 to form pinecone-liked particles, which are enwrapped by rGO sheets. This novel structure effectively prevents aggregation of nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 , which not only suppresses the charges recombination in Ag 3 PO 4 but also significantly reduces the content of Ag. Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO also favors separation of photogenerated charges owing to its two pathways for charges transportation, i.e., the electrons in Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to rGO, while the holes in Ag 3 PO 4 can be transferred to TiO 2 . The dual-pathway for charges separation as well as the pinecone-liked Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 microstructure ultimately leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability of Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO. The photocatalytic performance varies with different contents of Ag 3 PO 4 in the composites, because low content of Ag 3 PO 4 induces weak light absorption while excess Ag 3 PO 4 results in serious charges recombination due to the aggregation of Ag 3 PO 4 nanoparticles. In this work, Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 /rGO with weight ratio of Ag 3 PO 4 against TiO 2 /rGO equals to 0.6 exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. The percentage of Ag in this composite is around 29 wt%, much lower than 77 wt% in pure Ag 3 PO 4 . - Highlights: • Nano-sized Ag 3 PO 4 were decorated on TiO 2 particles. • Pinecone-liked Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2

  16. Electronic and optical properties of AgAlO_2: A first-principles study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bhamu, K.C.; Priolkar, K.R.

    2017-01-01

    In this paper, we present electronic and optical properties of silver-based delafossite compound AgAlO_2 (AAO). For the electronic properties, we have computed band structure and density of states. The origin of band structure is elucidated in terms of density of states. A significant contribution in band structure comes from Ag-4d and O-2p states around the Fermi level. The estimated band gap shows the indirect semiconducting nature of AAO having the band gap value of 2.34 eV. For the optical properties, we have calculated frequency dependent dielectric functions. The peaks in the imaginary component of dielectric function are explained by electronic transitions in the dispersion relation. Our computed results are in agreement with those available in the literature. The wide band gap and hence transparency for the UV and visible incident light photons makes AAO a precious material for transparent electronics. - Highlights: • Applied different-different types of exchange-correlations and potentials. • Becke–Johnson with Hubbard potential (BJ + U) is better for 2H-AgAlO_2. • Band gap is in reasonable agreement with experimentally reported. • Origin of energy bands is elucidated in terms of density of states. • 2H-AgAlO_2 is a promising candidate for transparent electronics.

  17. High Transparent and Conductive TiO2/Ag/TiO2 Multilayer Electrode Films Deposited on Sapphire Substrate

    Science.gov (United States)

    Loka, Chadrasekhar; Moon, Sung Whan; Choi, YiSik; Lee, Kee-Sun

    2018-03-01

    Transparent conducting oxides attract intense interests due to its diverse industrial applications. In this study, we report sapphire substrate-based TiO2/Ag/TiO2 (TAT) multilayer structure of indium-free transparent conductive multilayer coatings. The TAT thin films were deposited at room temperature on sapphire substrates and a rigorous analysis has been presented on the electrical and optical properties of the films as a function of Ag thickness. The optical and electrical properties were mainly controlled by the Ag mid-layer thickness of the TAT tri-layer. The TAT films showed high luminous transmittance 84% at 550 nm along with noteworthy low electrical resistance 3.65 × 10-5 Ω-cm and sheet resistance of 3.77 Ω/square, which is better are than those of amorphous ITO films and any sapphire-based dielectric/metal/dielectric multilayer stack. The carrier concentration of the films was increased with respect to Ag thickness. We obtained highest Hackke's figure of merit 43.97 × 10-3 Ω-1 from the TAT multilayer thin film with a 16 nm thick Ag mid-layer.

  18. EPR Structural Investigations on Ag2O-B2O3-CaO-P2O5 Vitreous System

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Razvan Stefan

    2011-10-01

    Full Text Available Glass samples from vitreous system 1.5Ag2O98.5%[0.47B2O3(0.53-xCaOxP2O5] with 0  x  0.08 have been obtained by undercooled method. The magnetic species existing in glass powders have been highlighting by mean of electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR. The resonance linewidth analysis reveal the interactions between magnetic ions.

  19. Particle growth mechanisms in Ag-ZrO2 and Au-ZrO2 granular films obtained by pulsed laser deposition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Konstantinovic, Zorica; Muro, Montserrat Garcia del; Varela, Manuel; Batlle, Xavier; Labarta, AmIlcar

    2006-01-01

    Thin films consisting of Ag and Au nanoparticles embedded in amorphous ZrO 2 matrix were grown by pulsed laser deposition in a wide range of metal volume concentrations in the dielectric regime (0.08 Ag Au c (Ag)∼0.28 and x c (Au)∼0.52)

  20. Ag-decorated Fe_3O_4@SiO_2 core-shell nanospheres: Seed-mediated growth preparation and their antibacterial activity during the consecutive recycling

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Miaomiao; Wu, Wenjie; Qiao, Ru; Tan, Linxiang; Li, Zhengquan; Zhang, Yong

    2016-01-01

    We demonstrated a seed-mediated growth approach to synthesize Ag nanoparticles-decorated Fe_3O_4@SiO_2 core-shell nanospheres without use of surface functionalization. The particle size and decoration density of the immobilized Ag nanoparticles on SiO_2 surface were tunable by adjusting the added AgNO_3 concentration and the alternating repetition times in seed-mediated growth procedure. The as-prepared Ag-decorated Fe_3O_4@SiO_2 nanospheres exhibited excellent antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans, in which the minimum inhibitory concentration were 12.5 μg mL"−"1, 50 μg mL"−"1 and 50 μg mL"−"1, respectively. It is speculated that their antibacterial activity is attributed to both the interaction of released Ag ions with the functional groups of vital enzymes and proteins and the strong oxidation of reactive oxygen species generated under the action of photoinduced electrons in Ag nanoparticles. Besides studying their antibacterial mechanism, we also investigated the variation of antibacterial activity of these heterostructured nanospheres during the consecutive magnetic separation and recycling. It shows that the magnetic antibacterial agent could be reused and its activity remained stable even after nine cycles, which enable it to be promisingly applied in biomedical areas. - Highlights: • Ag-decorated Fe_3O_4@SiO_2 were synthesized via a seed-mediated growth method. • The core-shell heterostructures exhibited excellent antibacterial activity. • The activity was attributed to the effect of released Ag"+ with ROS oxidation. • The antibacterial agent was reused during magnetic separation and recycling.

  1. Low temperature preparation of Ag-doped ZnO nanowire arrays for sensor and light-emitting diode applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lupan, O.; Viana, B.; Cretu, V.; Postica, V.; Adelung, R.; Pauporté, T.

    2016-02-01

    Transition metal doped-oxide semiconductor nanostructures are important to achieve enhanced and new properties for advanced applications. We describe the low temperature preparation of ZnO:Ag nanowire/nanorod (NW/NR) arrays by electrodeposition at 90 °C. The NWs have been characterized by SEM, EDX, transmittance and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. The integration of Ag in the crystal is shown. Single nanowire/nanorod of ZnO:Ag was integrated in a nanosensor structure leading to new and enhanced properties. The ultraviolet (UV) response of the nanosensor was investigated at room temperature. Experimental results indicate that ZnO:Ag (0.75 μM) nanosensor possesses faster response/recovery time and better response to UV light than those reported in literature. The sensor structure has been also shown to give a fast response for the hydrogen detection with improved performances compared to pristine ZnO NWs. ZnO:Ag nanowire/nanorod arrays electrochemically grown on p-type GaN single crystal layer is also shown to act as light emitter in LED structures. The emission wavelength is red-shifted compared to pristine ZnO NW array. At low Ag concentration a single UV-blue emission is found whereas at higher concentration of dopant the emission is broadened and extends up to the red wavelength range. Our study indicates that high quality ZnO:Ag NW/NR prepared at low temperature by electrodeposition can serve as building nanomaterials for new sensors and light emitting diodes (LEDs) structures with low-power consumption.

  2. Synthesis by Sol-gel and characterization of catalysts Ag/Al2O3-CeO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zayas, M.L.; Perez H, R.; Rubio, E.; Velasco, A.

    2004-01-01

    Aluminia, cerium and mixed oxides Al 2 O 3 -CeO 2 with different relationship Al/Ce (0.75, 0.50 and 0.25) were prepared by sol-gel and used as support for the Ag. The samples were characterized by XRD, DRIFT, TPR and adsorption of N 2 to temperature of liquid nitrogen. The surface area BET showed that the materials that contain aluminia present near values among them. XRD allowed to identify to the cerianite in the oxides that whose support contains cerium and to the α-aluminia. A mixture of phases was observed in the aluminia. Vibration bands attributed to the bond Al-O and Ce-O were observed by DRIFT in the catalytic materials. TPR showed differences in the reducibility of the Ag precursor in the indicative catalysts of a different interaction with the support. (Author)

  3. Using Ag-embedded TiO{sub 2} nanotubes array as recyclable SERS substrate

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ling, Yunhan, E-mail: yhling@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn [Lab of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science & Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China); Zhuo, Yuqing; Huang, Liang [Lab of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science & Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084 (China); Mao, Duolu [School of Physical and Electronic Information Engineering, Qinghai Nationalities University, Xining, Qinghai 810007 (China)

    2016-12-01

    Highlights: • Ag embedded nanoparticles inside nanotube have better SERS enhancement than surface cap. • Ag NPs reconstruction via self-migration with UV and humidity control. • Self-cleaning effects both on organic molecule photo-oxidation as well as Ag ions photo-reduction. - Abstract: A simple strategy for synthesizing Ag-loaded TiO{sub 2} nanotube film for use as multifunctional photocatalyst and recyclable surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate is introduced. Highly aligned TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (TNTA) prepared via electrochemical anodization were used as a 3D rough host for silver nanoparticles. Ag deposits were sputtered in a vacuum, and it was found that their morphologies were mainly influenced by the diameters of nanotubes and the UV irradiation induced aging process, especially the self-migration of silver along the tubular wall. SERS and the self-cleaning effect were observed using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as the probe molecule. The results showed that narrow nanotube and silver nanoparticles embedment contributed significantly to both the phenomenal SERS and recyclability.

  4. Synthesis of Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires through a sunlight induced reduction method and its enhanced photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yao, Yun-Chang; Dai, Xin-Rong [Anhui & Huaihe river institute of hydraulic research, Hefei, Anhui 230088 (China); Hu, Xiao-Ye, E-mail: hxy821982@issp.ac.cn [Key Laboratory of Materials Physics, and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031 (China); Huang, Su-Zhen [Institute of plasma physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031 (China); Jin, Zhen, E-mail: ftbjin@hotmail.com [Research Center for Biomimetic Functional Materials and Sensing Devices, Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031 (China)

    2016-11-30

    Highlights: • The Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires were succefully synthesized. • A sunlight induced ethanol reduction method for Ag decoration has been reported. • The Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires exhibit excellent photocatalytic activity. • The photodegradation ratio of the as-prepared product is much higher than that of P25. - Abstract: In this work, Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires were successfully synthesized via a facile and low-cost sunlight induced reduction method. The cooperation of sunlight irradiation and ethanol reduction results the formation and decoration of the Ag nanoparticles on the porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires. The structure of the Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) measurements. It can be seen that the Ag nanoparticles are well dispersed within the porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires. The as-prepared Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires exhibits excellent photocatalytic properties. The photocatalytic tests show that 10 ppm methylene blue can be photodegraded within 60 min. And the photodegradation ratio of the Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires much higher than that of P25 and porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires. Moreover, the Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires also reveal good photocatalytic activity towards to other organic pollutions, such as phenol and R6G. Therefore, it is believed that the Ag-decorated porous TiO{sub 2} nanowires can be used as a potential high performance photocatalyst in wastewater treatment.

  5. Anti-biofilm efficacy of low temperature processed AgCl–TiO2 nanocomposite coating

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Naik, Kshipra; Kowshik, Meenal

    2014-01-01

    Biofilms are a major concern in the medical settings and food industries due to their high tolerance to antibiotics, biocides and mechanical stress. Currently, the development of novel methods to control biofilm formation is being actively pursued. In the present study, sol–gel coatings of AgCl–TiO 2 nanoparticles are presented as potential anti-biofilm agents, wherein TiO 2 acts as a good supporting matrix to prevent aggregation of silver and facilitates its controlled release. Low-temperature processed AgCl–TiO 2 nanocomposite coatings inhibit biofilm formation by Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In vitro biofilm assay experiments demonstrated that AgCl–TiO 2 nanocomposite coated surfaces, inhibited the development of biofilms over a period of 10 days as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The silver release kinetics exhibited an initial high release, followed by a slow and sustained release. The anti-biofilm efficacy of the coatings could be attributed to the release of silver, which prevents the initial bacterial adhesion required for biofilm formation. - Highlights: • Potential of AgCl–TiO 2 nanocomposite coating to inhibit biofilm formation is exhibited. • Initial rapid release followed by later slow and sustained release of silver obtained. • TiO 2 being porous and inorganic in nature acts as a good supporting matrix

  6. Microstructure and magnetic properties of nanocomposite FePt/MgO and FePt/Ag films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, S.C.; Kuo, P.C.; Sun, A.C.; Chou, C.Y.; Fang, Y.H.; Wu, T.H.

    2006-01-01

    An in-plane magnetic anisotropy of FePt film is obtained in the MgO 5 nm/FePt t nm/MgO 5 nm films (where t=5, 10 and 20 nm). Both the in-plane coercivity (H c- parallel ) and the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of FePt films are increased when introducing an Ag-capped layer instead of MgO-capped layer. An in-plane coercivity is 3154 Oe for the MgO 5 nm/FePt 10 nm/MgO 5 nm film, and it can be increased to 4846 Oe as a 5 nm Ag-capped layer instead of MgO-capped layer. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-energy disperse spectrum (EDS) analysis shows that the Ag mainly distributed at the grain boundary of FePt, that leads the increase of the grain boundary energy, which will enhance coercivity and perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of FePt film

  7. X-ray absorption study at the Mg and O K edges of ultrathin MgO epilayers on Ag(001)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Luches, P.; D'Addato, S.; Valeri, S.; Groppo, E.; Prestipino, C.; Lamberti, C.; Boscherini, F.

    2004-01-01

    We determined the local atomic structure of MgO epilayers on Ag(001) by means of polarization-dependent x-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements at the Mg and O K edges. A quantitative analysis of the data in the extended energy range has been performed using multiple scattering simulations. We found that, even in the ultrathin limit, the local structure of the films is rocksalt and we obtained a quantitative evaluation of the average in-plane and out-of-plane film strain at the different thicknesses investigated. An in-plane compressive strain, due to lattice mismatch with the Ag substrate, is clearly present for the 3 ML film. The out-of-plane lattice constant is found to be expanded, in agreement with the expected behavior for a tetragonal distortion of the unit cell. This growth-induced strain is gradually released with increasing thickness and it is almost completely relaxed at 20 ML. Any significant intermixing with the Ag substrate can be ruled out. An expansion of the interplanar distance at the MgO-Ag interface is detected and its sign and magnitude are found to be in agreement with recent ab initio simulations. This work provides previously unavailable input for modeling the physical properties of the system and supports the hypothesis that the different electronic properties of MgO films on Ag(001) are not related to structural or compositional differences at the ultrathin limit

  8. Fabrication of Carbon Nanotube/SiO2and Carbon Nanotube/SiO2/Ag Nanoparticles Hybrids by Using Plasma Treatment

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Li Haiqing

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Based on plasma-treated single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs, SWCNT/SiO2and thiol groups-functionalized SWCNT/SiO2hybrids have been fabricated through a sol–gel process. By means of thiol groups, Ag nanoparticles have been in situ synthesized and bonded onto the SiO2shell of SWCNT/SiO2in the absence of external reducing agent, resulting in the stable carbon nanotube/SiO2/Ag nanoparticles hybrids. This strategy provides a facile, low–cost, and green methodology for the creation of carbon nanotube/inorganic oxides-metal nanoparticles hybrids.

  9. Mn3O4 precipitates in Ag and Cu studied with HRTEM : orientation relations and tetragonal twinning

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Kooi, B.J.; de Hosson, J.T.M.; Sarton, LAJ; Zeedijk, HB

    1997-01-01

    Internal oxidation of Ag-3at.%Mn resulted in Mn3O4 precipitates and of Cu-1at.%Mn gave rise to MnO and a minor amount of Mn3O4 precipitates. In Cu Mn3O4 transformed out of MnO, whereas in Ag Mn3O4 developed directly. Predominantly, precipitates with parallel topotaxy and an octahedron shape due to 8

  10. A Fe3O4@Nico@Ag nanocatalyst for the hydrogenation of nitroaromatics

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    U. Kurtan; Md.Amir; A. Baykal

    2015-01-01

    We report the fabrication and characterization of a magnetically recyclable Fe3O4@Nico@Ag catalyst for reduction reactions in the liquid phase. Fe3O4 is a magnetic core and nicotinic acid was used as the linker for Ag. The characterization was done with X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. VSM measurements proved the super-paramagnetic property of the catalyst.

  11. AgLnSb/sub 2/O/sub 7/ compounds with weberite structure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lopatin, S S; Aver' yanova, L N; Belyaev, I N; Zvyagintsev, B I; Dyatlov, Eh V [Rostovskij-na-Donu Gosudarstvennyj Univ. (USSR)

    1982-11-01

    The interaction between AgSbO/sub 3/ and LnSbO/sub 4/ in the solid phase at 1100-1150 deg C has been investigated. AgLnSb/sub 2/O/sub 7/ compounds with weberite crystal structure are formed in Ln=La, Pr, Nd, Sm cases but in Ln=Eu, Cd, Dy, Er cases the formation of termary oxides of the indicated composition has not been observed. Inasmuch as compounds of the general formula A/sub 2/B/sub 2/O/sub 7/ with average cation radii Rsub(B) >0.60 A and 1.65 <= Rsub(A)/Rsub(B) <= 2.20 can crystallize in weberite, pyrochlore and laminated perovskite-like structurer, conditions of the existence of the above mentioned structures depending on A and B dimensions and electronegativity are discussed.

  12. Synthesis of AgI/Bi2MoO6 nano-heterostructure with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic property

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Li Zhang

    2018-04-01

    Full Text Available A novel nano-heterostructure of AgI/Bi2MoO6 photocatalyst was successfully synthesized via a facile deposition-precipitation method. The samples were systematically characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectra. While sole Bi2MoO6 or AgI showed poor activity toward photocatalytic rhodamine B degradation, the nano-heterostructure was found with superior performance. The AgI/Bi2MoO6 composite with an optimal content of 20 wt% AgI exhibited the highest photocatalytic degradation rate. Rhodamine B was totally degraded within 75 min visible-light irradiation. Moreover, the hybrid photocatalyst also showed a fairly good stability for several-cycle reuse. This study indicates that the AgI/Bi2MoO6 nano-heterostructure can be used as an effective candidate for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Keywords: Heterostructure, Photocatalyst, RhB-degradation

  13. Synthesis and visible-light-induced catalytic activity of Ag{sub 2}S-coupled TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles and nanowires

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xie Yi; Heo, Sung Hwan; Kim, Yong Nam; Yoo, Seung Hwa; Cho, Sung Oh, E-mail: socho@kaist.ac.kr [Department of Nuclear and Quantum Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 373-1 Guseong, Yuseong, Daejeon 305-701 (Korea, Republic of)

    2010-01-08

    We present the synthesis and visible-light-induced catalytic activity of Ag{sub 2}S-coupled TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (NPs) and TiO{sub 2} nanowires (NWs). Through a simple wet chemical process from a mixture of peroxo titanic acid (PTA) solution, thiourea and AgAc, a composite of Ag{sub 2}S NPs and TiO{sub 2} NPs with sizes of less than 7 nm was formed. When the NP composite was further treated with NaOH solution followed by annealing at ambient conditions, a new nanocomposite material comprising Ag{sub 2}S NPs on TiO{sub 2} NWs was created. Due to the coupling with such a low bandgap material as Ag{sub 2}S, the TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites could have a visible-light absorption capability much higher than that of pure TiO{sub 2}. As a result, the synthesized Ag{sub 2}S/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites exhibited much higher catalytic efficiency for the decomposition of methyl orange than commercial TiO{sub 2} (Degussa P25, Germany) under visible light.

  14. Plasmon-resonance-enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres for methyl orange degradation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Xin; Shang, Liwei; Wang, Dongjun; An, Li; Li, Zhonghua; Liu, Jiawen; Shen, Jun

    2018-06-01

    We successfully prepared Ag quantum dots modified TiO2 microspheres by facile solvothermal and calcination method. The as-prepared Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres were characterized by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The Ag quantum dots/TiO2 photocatalyst showed excellent visible light absorption and efficient photocatalytic activity for methyl orange degradation. And the sample with the molar ratio of 0.05 (Ag to Ti) showed the best visible light photocatalytic activity for methyl orange degradation, mainly because of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effects of Ag quantum dots to generate electron and hole pairs for enhanced visible light photocatalysis. Finally, possible visible light photocatalytic mechanism of Ag quantum dots/TiO2 microspheres for methyl orange degradation was proposed in detail.

  15. Influence of Temperature on the Formation of Ag Complexed in a S2O32−–O2 System

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Aislinn M. Teja-Ruiz

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Metallic elements of higher economic value, occurring in the mineralogy of Zimapán, are Pb, Zn, Cu, and Fe; said elements are sold as concentrates, which, even after processing, generally include significant concentrations of Mo, Cd, Sb, Ag, and As that can be recovered through different leaching methods. In this work, the influence of temperature in the complexation of silver contained in a concentrate of Zn using the technology of thiosulfate with oxygen injection was studied. Chemical and mineralogical characterization of the mineral concentrate from the state of Hidalgo, Mexico confirmed the existence of silver contained in a sulfide of silver arsenic (AgAsS2 by X-ray Diffraction (XRD. The results obtained by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS reported abundant metallic contents (% w/w (48% Zn, 10.63% Fe, 1.97% Cu, 0.84% Pb, 0.78% As, and 0.25% Ag. These results corroborate the presence of metallic sulfides such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, and wurtzite; this last species was identified as the matrix of the concentrate by X-ray Diffraction (XRD and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS. Pourbaix diagrams were constructed for the AgAsS2–S2O32−–O2 system at different temperatures, which allowed the chemical reaction of leaching to be established, in addition to determining Eh-pH conditions in which to obtain silver in solution. The highest recoveries of the precious metal (97% Ag were obtained at a temperature of 333 K and [S2O32−] = 0.5 M. The formation of silver dithiosulfate complex (Ag(S2O323− was confirmed by the characterization of the leach liquors obtained from the experiments performed in the temperature range of 298 to 333 K using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR.

  16. Preparation of Ag/SiO{sub 2} near-infrared absorbers using the combination of sputtering and spin-coating depositions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liau, Leo Chau-Kuang, E-mail: lckliau@saturn.yzu.edu.tw [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan (China); Lai, Guo-Bin [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan (China); Juang, Rei-Cheng; Chang, Bing-Hung [Green Energy and Environmental Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan (China); Yang, Thomas Chun-Kuang [Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan (China)

    2015-03-02

    This study presents the design and fabrication of near-infrared (NIR) absorbers constructed in multilayer structures using Ag and SiO{sub 2} materials. The absorbers, consisting of Ag and SiO{sub 2} films, were fabricated using sputtering and spin-coating approaches, respectively. The fabricated absorbing devices were evaluated using ultraviolet–visible-NIR spectra. Results revealed that the structure of the Ag/SiO{sub 2}/Ag films exhibited an NIR absorbing effect. The absorbing properties were substantially influenced by the fabrication parameters and the thickness of the multilayer films. Furthermore, the NIR absorbing performance improved significantly when the SiO{sub 2} layer was annealed at 300 °C before the deposition of the top Ag film. Additionally, the absorptance of the absorbers was affected by the thickness of the top Ag layer. The long-term stability of the multilayer absorber was tested and verified based on absorptance data analysis. The NIR absorbing performance can be further improved using the optimal device design of the film thickness and by fabricating additional Ag/SiO{sub 2} layers. - Highlights: • Ag/SiO{sub 2} near-infrared absorbers were designed and fabricated. • The absorbing performance was greatly influenced by the fabrication schemes. • The optimal fabrication process of the absorber was obtained. • The long-term stability of the absorber was verified.

  17. Influence of etching process parameters on the antireflection property of Si SWSs by thermally dewetted Ag and Ag/SiO{sub 2} nanopatterns

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Leem, Jung Woo; Yu, Jae Su [Department of Electronics and Radio Engineering, Kyung Hee University, 446-701 Yongin (Korea, Republic of); Song, Young Min; Lee, Yong Tak [Department of Information and Communications, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 500-712 Gwangju (Korea, Republic of)

    2011-08-15

    The etching parameter dependent antireflection characteristics of disordered Si subwavelength structures (SWSs) by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching in a mixture gas of SiCl{sub 4}/Ar using thermally dewetted Ag and Ag/SiO{sub 2} nanopatterns are investigated. The average size and period of Si SWSs are closely correlated with thermal dewetting conditions. For desirable Ag nanoparticle patterns, the profile of Si SWSs is optimized by changing the ICP etching process parameters to obtain the lowest reflectance spectrum. The most tapered SWS with the highest height leads to a relatively low reflectance. The Ag nanopatterns result in more tapered and rough surface SWSs compared to the Ag/SiO{sub 2} nanopatterns, indicating a slightly reduced reflectance. The Si SWS etched using Ag nanopatterns by SiCl{sub 4}/Ar of 5 sccm/10 sccm at 50 W RF power, 200 W ICP power, and 10 mTorr process pressure exhibits a very low total reflectance of <{proportional_to}2.4% in the wavelength range of 400-1000 nm, maintaining a specular reflectance of <16% at 350-1100 nm up to the incident angle of {theta}{sub i} = 50 . (Copyright copyright 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  18. Dosimetric characteristics of Li2B4O7:Cu,Ag,P solid TL detectors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Proki, M.

    2002-01-01

    The main dosimetric characteristics are presented of newly prepared tissue-equivalent, highly sensitive thermoluminescent detector, Li 2 B 4 O 7 :Cu,Ag,P in the form of sintered pellets, developed at the Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Vin a . As a result of an advancement in the preparation procedure by the sensitising of basic copper activated lithium borate TL material, significant improvement in the TL sensitivity of Li 2 B 4 O 7 :Cu,Ag,P was gained. The glow curve of Li 2 B 4 O 7 :Cu,Ag,P consists of well defined main dosimetric peak situated at about 185-190 deg. C with the TL sensitivity which is about four to five times higher than that of LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100). From the experimental results a very wide linear dose response range, up to 10 3 Gy is evident. Dosimetric characteristics make sintered solid Li 2 B 4 O 7 :Cu,Ag,P TL detectors very promising for different dosimetry applications particularly in medical dosimetry and also for individual monitoring. (author)

  19. Bidirectional threshold switching characteristics in Ag/ZrO2/Pt electrochemical metallization cells

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gang Du

    2016-08-01

    Full Text Available A bidirectional threshold switching (TS characteristic was demonstrated in Ag/ZrO2/Pt electrochemical metallization cells by using the electrochemical active Ag electrode and appropriate programming operation strategies The volatile TS was stable and reproducible and the rectify ratio could be tuned to ∼107 by engineering the compliance current. We infer that the volatile behavior is essentially due to the moisture absorption in the electron beam evaporated films, which remarkably improved the anodic oxidation as well as the migration of Ag+ ions. The resultant electromotive force would act as a driving force for the metal filaments dissolution, leading to the spontaneous volatile characteristics. Moreover, conductance quantization behaviors were also achieved owing to formation and annihilation of atomic scale metal filaments in the film matrix. Our results illustrate that the Ag/ZrO2/Pt device with superior TS performances is a promising candidate for selector applications in passive crossbar arrays.

  20. Optical nonlinearities in Ag/BaTiO{sub 3} multi-layer nanocomposite films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yang Guang [Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics and School of Optoelectronics Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China)], E-mail: gyang@hust.edu.cn; Zhou Youhua [Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics and School of Optoelectronics Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China); School of Physics and Information Engineering, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056 (China); Long Hua; Li Yuhua; Yang Yifa [Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics and School of Optoelectronics Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China)

    2007-07-31

    The multi-layer structure of barium titanate composite thin films containing Ag nanoparticles were grown on MgO (100) substrates using pulsed laser deposition technique under the nitrogen pressure of 7.4 Pa. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicated that the samples were composed of metal Ag embedded in the BaTiO{sub 3} matrices. The optical absorption properties were measured from 300 nm to 800 nm, and the absorption peaks due to the surface plasmon resonance of Ag particles were observed. With the increasing of Ag concentration in composite films, the peak absorption increased and shifted to longer wavelength (red-shift). Furthermore, the third-order optical nonlinearities of the films were determined by z-scan method and the nonlinear refractive index, n{sub 2}, and nonlinear absorption coefficient, {beta}, were determined to be about - 1.91 x 10{sup -13} m{sup 2}/W and - 5.80 x 10{sup -7} m/W, respectively.

  1. The effect of nanoparticles size on photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} photocatalysts

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zielińska-Jurek, Anna, E-mail: annjurek@pg.gda.pl [Department of Chemical Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Wei, Zhishun [Catalysis Research Center, Hokkaido University, N21, W10, 001-0021, Sapporo (Japan); Wysocka, Izabela [Department of Chemical Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Szweda, Piotr [Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdansk (Poland); Kowalska, Ewa [Catalysis Research Center, Hokkaido University, N21, W10, 001-0021, Sapporo (Japan)

    2015-10-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light for bimetallic Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} was observed. • Phenol was removed efficiently after 60 min irradiation under Vis. • Most active sample contains fine Pt (1–3 nm) on TiO{sub 2}. • Ag/TiO{sub 2}, Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} revealed antimicrobial activity. - Abstract: Ag-Pt-modified TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites were synthesized using the sol–gel method. Bimetallic modified TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles exhibited improved photocatalytic activity under visible-light irradiation, better than monometallic Ag/TiO{sub 2} and Pt/TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (NPs). All modified powders showed localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in visible region. The photocatalysts’ characteristics by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), nitrogen adsorption (BET method for specific surface area) showed that sample with the highest photocatalytic activity had anatase structure, about 93 m{sup 2}/g specific surface area, maximum plasmon absorption at ca. 420 nm and contained small NPs of silver of 6 nm and very fine platinum NPs of 3 nm. The photocatalytic activity was estimated by measuring the decomposition rate of phenol in 0.2 mM aqueous solution under Vis and UV/vis light irradiation. It was found that size of platinum was decisive for the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation, i.e., the smaller Pt NPs were, the higher was photocatalytic activity. While, antimicrobial activities, estimated for bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and pathogenic fungi belonging to Candida family, were only observed for photocatalysts containing silver, i.e., Ag/TiO{sub 2} and Ag-Pt/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites.

  2. In situ thermal residual stress evolution in ultrathin ZnO and Ag films studied by synchrotron x-ray diffraction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Renault, P.O., E-mail: Pierre.olivier.renault@univ-poitiers.fr [Institut P' , CNRS, Universite de Poitiers, UPR 3346, 86962 Futuroscope (France); Krauss, C.; Le Bourhis, E.; Geandier, G. [Institut P' , CNRS, Universite de Poitiers, UPR 3346, 86962 Futuroscope (France); Benedetto, A. [Saint-Gobain Recherche (SGR), 93303 Aubervilliers (France); Grachev, S.Y.; Barthel, E. [Lab. Surface du Verre et Interfaces (SVI), UMR-CNRS 125, 93303 Aubervilliers (France)

    2011-12-30

    Residual-stress evolution in sputtered encapsulated ZnO/Ag/ZnO stack has been studied in-situ by synchrotron x-ray diffraction when heat treated. The ZnO/Ag/ZnO stack encapsulated into Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} layers and deposited on (001) Si substrates was thermally heated from 25 Degree-Sign C to 600 Degree-Sign C and cooled down to 25 Degree-Sign C. X-ray diffraction 2D patterns captured continuously during the heat treatment allowed monitoring the diffraction peak shifts of both Ag (15 nm thick) and ZnO (10 nm and 50 nm thick) sublayers. Due to the mismatch between the coefficients of thermal expansion, the silicon substrate induced compressive thermal stresses in the films during heating. We first observed a linear increase of the compressive stress state in both Ag and ZnO films and then a more complex elastic-stress evolution starts to operate from about 100 Degree-Sign C for Ag and about 250 Degree-Sign C for ZnO. Thermal contraction upon cooling seems to dominate so that the initial compressive film stresses relax by about 300 and 700 MPa after thermal treatment for ZnO and Ag, respectively. The overall behavior is discussed in terms of structural changes induced by the heat treatment.

  3. Photocatalytic performance of graphene/TiO{sub 2}-Ag composites on amaranth dye degradation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Roşu, Marcela-Corina, E-mail: marcela.rosu@itim-cj.ro; Socaci, Crina; Floare-Avram, Veronica; Borodi, Gheorghe; Pogăcean, Florina; Coroş, Maria; Măgeruşan, Lidia; Pruneanu, Stela

    2016-08-15

    Ternary nanocomposites containing TiO{sub 2}, silver and graphene with different reduction levels were prepared and used as photocatalysts for amaranth azo dye degradation, under UV and natural light exposure. The obtained materials were characterized by TEM, XRD, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy, confirming the successful formation of the nanocomposites. HPLC analysis along with UV-Vis spectroscopy were employed to quantify the concentration of non-degraded dye in solution. The graphene/TiO{sub 2}-Ag nanocomposites proved to have remarkable photocatalytic activities for amaranth degradation under UV and solar irradiation (85.3–98% of dye has disappeared in the first 2 h). Also, significant removal efficiencies (between 40.5 and 71.8%) of photocatalysts, in day light conditions, were demonstrated. The best result for amaranth dye degradation was obtained with the reduced graphene/TiO{sub 2}-Ag catalyst (up to 99.9%). Based on the degradation products analysis, a photodegradation pathway of amaranth dye was also proposed. - Highlights: • Graphene/TiO{sub 2}-Ag composites were prepared by a combined chemical-thermal method. • The composites showed improved light-absorption characteristics. • A significant degradation performance of amaranth was obtained with these composites under UV and natural light exposure. • Graphene/TiO{sub 2}-Ag composites offer a high potential for various photocatalytic applications in pollutant removal processes.

  4. H2O2 rejuvenation-mediated synthesis of stable mixed-morphology Ag3PO4 photocatalysts

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Henry Agbe

    2018-04-01

    Full Text Available Ag3PO4 photocatalyst has attracted interest of the scientific community in recent times due to its reported high efficiency for water oxidation and dye degradation. However, Ag3PO4 photo-corrodes if electron accepter such as AgNO3 is not used as scavenger. Synthesis of efficient Ag3PO4 followed by a simple protocol for regeneration of the photocatalyst is therefore a prerequisite for practical application. Herein, we present a facile method for the synthesis of a highly efficient Ag3PO4, whose photocatalytic efficiency was demonstrated using 3 different organic dyes: Methylene Blue (MB, Methyl orange (MO and Rhodamine B (RhB organic dyes for degradation tests. Approximately, 19 % of Ag3PO4 is converted to Ag0 after 4.30 hours of continuous UV-Vis irradiation in presence of MB organic dye. We have shown that the Ag/Ag3PO4 composite can be rejuvenated by a simple chemical oxidation step after several cycles of photocatalysis tests. At an optimal pH of 6.5, a mixture of cubic, rhombic dodecahedron, nanosphere and nanocrystals morphologies of the photocatalyst was formed. H2O2 served as the chemical oxidant to re-insert the surface metallic Ag into the Ag3PO4 photocatalyst but also as the agent that can control morphology of the regenerated as-prepared photocatalyst without the need for any other morphology controlling Agent (MCA. Surprisingly, the as- regenerated Ag3PO4 was found to have higher photocatalytic reactivity than the freshly made material and superior at least 17 times in comparison with the conventional Degussa TiO2, and some of TiO2 composites tested in this work. Keywords: Materials chemistry, Materials science, Engineering

  5. Topotactic synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of a new hexagonal polytype of silver cobaltate(III) AgCoO2+δ

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Muguerra, Herve; Colin, Claire; Anne, Michel; Julien, Marc-Henri; Strobel, Pierre

    2008-01-01

    A new form of delafossite-type AgCoO 2+δ was prepared using ion exchange from Na 0.75 CoO 2 in molten AgNO 3 -NH 4 NO 3 at 175 deg. C. Its structure was determined by the Rietveld refinement from X-ray powder diffraction measurements (XRD) data; it is hexagonal, space group P6 3 /mmc, a=2.871 and c=12.222 A. Its structure differs from previously reported AgCoO 2 (R3-barm, 3R polytype) by the stacking of Co-O layers; in the new phase, the 2H stacking of the precursor Na 0.75 CoO 2 is consistent with a topotactic ion exchange of Na by Ag. The new phase is found to contain a slight oxygen excess (δ=0.06). Magnetic susceptibility measurements show the absence of magnetic transition and a weak Curie term, consistent with the non-magnetic character of Co 3+ ions. - Graphical abstract: Comparison of the structures of high-temperature AgCoO 2 (left, 3R structure) and of new AgCoO 2+∂ (IE) (right, 6H structure). The latter is obtained topotactically from Na 0.7 CoO 2 by ion exchange in molten nitrates. Detailed studies showed that AgCoO 2+∂ (IE) is slightly over-stoichiometric in oxygen (∂=0.06)

  6. Synthesis and characterization of high photocatalytic activity and stable Ag3PO4/TiO2 fibers for photocatalytic degradation of black liquor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cai, Li; Long, Qiyi; Yin, Chao

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers were prepared via in situ Ag 3 PO 4 particles onto the surface of TiO 2 fiber. • Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers have stronger catalytic activity and excellent chemical stability. • Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers act as an efficient catalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of black liquor. - Abstract: The TiO 2 fiber was prepared by using cotton fiber as a template, and then Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers were synthesized via in situ Ag 3 PO 4 particles onto the surface of TiO 2 fiber. Their structure and physical properties were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), specific surface analyzer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis absorption spectra and photoluminescence spectra (PL). SEM analysis indicated that the well-defined surface morphology of natural cotton fiber was mostly preserved in TiO 2 and Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers. Compared with TiO 2 fiber, the absorbance wavelengths of Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers were apparently red shifted and the PL intensities revealed a significant decrease. By using the photocatalytic degradation of black liquor as a model reaction, the visible light and ultraviolet light catalytic efficiencies of TiO 2 , Ag 3 PO 4 and Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers were evaluated. The reaction results showed that Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers had stronger photocatalytic activity and excellent chemical stability in repeated and long-term applications. Therefore, the prepared Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers could act as an efficient catalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of black liquor, which suggested their promising applications. It was proposed that the • OH radicals played the leading role in the photocatalytic degradation of the black liquor by Ag 3 PO 4 /TiO 2 fibers system

  7. Effects of UV/Ag-TiO2/O3 advanced oxidation on unicellular green alga Dunaliella salina: implications for removal of invasive species from ballast water.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Donghai; You, Hong; Du, Jiaxuan; Chen, Chuan; Jin, Darui

    2011-01-01

    The UV/Ag-TiO2/O3 process was investigated for ballast water treatment using Dunaliella salina as an indicator. Inactivation curves were obtained, and the toxicity of effluent was determined. Compared with individual unit processes using ozone or UV/Ag-TiO2, the inactivation efficiency of D. salina by the combined UV/Ag-TiO2/O3 process was enhanced. The presence of ozone caused an immediate decrease in chlorophyll a (chl-a) concentration. Inactivation efficiency and ch1-a removal efficiency were positively correlated with ozone dose and ultraviolet intensity. The initial total residual oxidant (TRO) concentration of effluent increased with increasing ozone dose, and persistence of TRO resulted in an extended period of toxicity. The results suggest that UV/Ag-TiO2/O3 has potential for ballast water treatment.

  8. Target swapping in PLD: An efficient approach for CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} nanocomposite thin films with enhanced luminescent properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saxena, Nupur, E-mail: n1saxena@gmail.com [Department of Physics & Astrophysics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007 (India); Kumar, Pragati, E-mail: pkumar.phy@gmail.com [Department of Physics & Astrophysics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007 (India); Department of Nano Sciences and Materials, Central University of Jammu, Rahya-Suchani (Bagla), Samba, 181143 Jammu, J& K (India); Gupta, Vinay [Department of Physics & Astrophysics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007 (India)

    2017-06-15

    A novel synthesis method for luminescent and by-products (like CdO) free CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} (i.e. 1%Ag doped CdS/SiO{sub 2}) nanocomposite thin films at room temperature by pulsed laser deposition is reported. Targets of CdS, CdS:Ag(1%) and SiO{sub 2} are used to deposit CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} nanocomposite thin films by swapping them at a frequency ratio of 2:8 laser pulses/sec. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis ensures the ratio of CdS to SiO{sub 2} in nanocomposite as 21:79 which is nearly same as the ratio of incident pulses/sec (i.e. 2:8) on the two targets. Transmission electron micrographs visualize the formation of CdS/ CdS:Ag(1%) nanocrystals in nanocomposite systems after annealing at 500 °C. Highly intense and broad red emission is achieved from CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} nanocomposites. The efficiencies of emission from pristine CdS:SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} nanocomposites are found to be enhanced by approximately two times as compared to sole nanocrystalline CdS and CdS:Ag(1%) thin films respectively and further enhanced upto 7 times on annealing the nanocomposite systems at 500 °C. - Graphical abstract: A modified synthesis method for luminescent and by-products (like CdO) free undoped &1% Ag doped CdS/SiO{sub 2} (deposit CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2}) nanocomposite thin films at room temperature by pulsed laser deposition is reported. Targets of CdS or CdS:Ag(1%) and SiO{sub 2} are used to deposit CdS/SiO{sub 2} and CdS:Ag(1%)/SiO{sub 2} nanocomposite thin films by swapping them at a frequency of 2:8 pulses/sec. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis ensures the ratio of CdS to SiO{sub 2} in nanocomposite as 21:79 which is nearly same as the ratio of incident pulses/sec (2:8) on the two targets. Transmission electron micrographs visualize the formation of CdS nanocrystals in nanocomposite systems after annealing at 500 °C. Intense and broad red emission is

  9. Report: Discussion on the development of nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket and its antibacterial property and biocompatibility in orthodontic treatment.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Ronghe; Zhang, Weiwei; Bai, Xueyan; Song, Xiaotong; Wang, Chunyan; Gao, Xinxin; Tian, Xubiao; Liu, Fengzhen

    2015-03-01

    This paper aims to explore the antibacterial property of nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket for the common bacteria in oral cavity, and discuss its biocompatibility. Micro morphology in the surface of nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket was detected by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and surface roughness of ordinary mental bracket, nano TiO2 coating bracket and nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket were measured. First, antibacterial property of nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket on the common bacteria in oral cavity was studied by sticking membrane method. Secondly, bonding strength of nano TiO2 coating and nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket in groups were detected by scratching test. The result showed that, the synthetic nano Ag/TiO2 coating was nanogranular films with rigorous organizational structure, presenting as smooth and clean surface, and antibacterial rate of nano Ag/TiO2 coating for the common bacteria in oral cavity for 20 min was more than 79% in the dark. All the findings suggested that, nano Ag/TiO2 coating bracket not only has antibacterial effect but also has good biocompatibility, therefore, it can satisfy the clinical request of orthodontic treatment.

  10. Visible-light photoactivity of plasmonic silver supported on mesoporous TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-MTN) for enhanced degradation of 2-chlorophenol: Limitation of Ag-Ti interaction

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Jaafar, N.F.; Jalil, A.A.; Triwahyono, S.

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag 0 loaded on MTN was prepared by a direct in-situ electrochemical method. • The introduction of Ag 0 lowers the band gap and increases the number of OV and TSD. • Ag 0 acted as an electrons trapper and also a plasmonic sensitizer. • The formation of Ti-O-Ag in 10 wt% Ag-MTN decreased the amount of Ag 0 , TSD and OV. • 5 wt% Ag-MTN gave the highest percentage of photodegradation of 2-CP. - Abstract: Various weight loadings of Ag (1–10 wt.%) were introduced to mesoporous titania nanoparticles (MTN) via a direct in-situ electrochemical method. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, surface area analysis, FTIR, ESR, FESEM-EDX and TEM. Characterization results indicated that the introduction of Ag onto MTN decreased the particles size and band gap of the MTN while increasing the number of oxygen vacancies (OV) and Ti 3+ site defects (TSD). The activity performance of Ag-MTN on photodegradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) under visible light irradiation was in the following order: 5 wt% Ag-MTN> 1 wt% Ag-MTN > MTN > 10 wt% Ag-MTN, with degradation percentages of 97, 88, 80 and 63%, respectively. The synergistic effect between Ag 0 and MTN seemed to play an important role in the system. The Ag0 acted as both an electron trap and a plasmonic sensitizer which suppressed the electron-hole recombination, while OV and TSD in the MTN accelerated the production of hydroxyl radicals for enhanced degradation of 2-CP. However, the formation of Ti-O-Ag in 10 wt% Ag-MTN was found to decrease the photoactivity due to the decrease in the formation of Ag 0 , TSD and OV as well as the increase in band gap energy. The photodegradation of 5 wt% Ag-MTN followed a pseudo-first-order Langmuir- Hinshelwood model and the catalyst was still stable after five cycles.

  11. Nonstatistical fluctuation in 16O-Ag/Br collisions at 200 A GeV/c

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ghosh, M.K.; Mukhopadhyay, A.; Haldar, P.K.; Manna, S.K.; Singh, G.

    2009-01-01

    Presence of non-statistical fluctuations in the density distribution of singly charged particles produced in 16 O-Ag/Br interactions at an incident momentum of 200A GeV/c, has been identified and characterized with the help of the intermittency technique. Nuclear photoemulsion data on 16 O-Ag/Br events have been used in the analysis. In each of the 280 events present in the sample, the projectile nucleus underwent complete fragmentation

  12. Synthesis by Sol-gel and characterization of catalysts Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-CeO{sub 2}; Sintesis por Sol-gel y caracterizacion de catalizadores Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-CeO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zayas, M.L.; Perez H, R. [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Rubio, E. [BUAP, Centro de Vinculacion, 72000 Puebla (Mexico); Velasco, A. [BUAP, Facultad de Quimica, 72000 Puebla (Mexico)

    2004-07-01

    Aluminia, cerium and mixed oxides Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-CeO{sub 2} with different relationship Al/Ce (0.75, 0.50 and 0.25) were prepared by sol-gel and used as support for the Ag. The samples were characterized by XRD, DRIFT, TPR and adsorption of N{sub 2} to temperature of liquid nitrogen. The surface area BET showed that the materials that contain aluminia present near values among them. XRD allowed to identify to the cerianite in the oxides that whose support contains cerium and to the {alpha}-aluminia. A mixture of phases was observed in the aluminia. Vibration bands attributed to the bond Al-O and Ce-O were observed by DRIFT in the catalytic materials. TPR showed differences in the reducibility of the Ag precursor in the indicative catalysts of a different interaction with the support. (Author)

  13. Al-doped ZnO/Ag grid hybrid transparent conductive electrodes fabricated using a low-temperature process

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    An, Ha-Rim; Oh, Sung-Tag [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 139-743 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Chang Yeoul [Future Convergence Ceramic Division, Korea Institute Ceramic Engineering and Technology (KICET), Seoul 233-5 (Korea, Republic of); Baek, Seong-Ho [Energy Research Division, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 711-873 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Il-Kyu, E-mail: ikpark@ynu.ac.kr [Department of Electronic Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongbuk 712-749 (Korea, Republic of); Ahn, Hyo-Jin, E-mail: hjahn@seoultech.ac.kr [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 139-743 (Korea, Republic of)

    2014-12-05

    Highlights: • Al-doped ZnO/Ag transparent conductive electrode is fabricated at low temperature. • Performance of the hybrid transparent conductive electrode affected by the structure. • The performance enhancement mechanism is suggested. - Abstract: Al-doped ZnO (AZO)/Ag grid hybrid transparent conductive electrode (TCE) structures were fabricated at a low temperature by using electrohydrodynamic jet printing for the Ag grids and atomic layer deposition for the AZO layers. The structural investigations showed that the AZO/Ag grid hybrid structures consisted of Ag grid lines formed by Ag particles and the AZO layer covering the inter-spacing between the Ag grid lines. The Ag particles comprising the Ag grid lines were also capped by thin AZO layers, and the coverage of the AZO layers was increased with increasing the thickness of the AZO layer. Using the optimum thickness of AZO layer of 70 nm, the hybrid TCE structure showed an electrical resistivity of 5.45 × 10{sup −5} Ω cm, an optical transmittance of 80.80%, and a figure of merit value of 1.41 × 10{sup −2} Ω{sup −1}. The performance enhancement was suggested based on the microstructural investigations on the AZO/Ag grid hybrid structures.

  14. Electronic structure of clean and Ag-covered single-crystalline Bi2Sr2CuO6

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lindberg, P.A.P.; Shen, Z.; Wells, B.O.; Mitzi, D.B.; Lindau, I.; Spicer, W.E.; Kapitulnik, A.

    1989-01-01

    Photoemission studies of single-crystalline samples of Bi 2 Sr 2 CuO 6 show clear resemblance to the corresponding data for single crystals of Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8 . In particular, a sharp Fermi-level cutoff, giving evidence of metallic conductivity at room temperature, as well as single-component O 1s emission and Cu 2p satellites with a strength amounting to about 50% of that of the main Cu 2p line, are observed. An analysis of the relative core-level photoemission intensities shows that the preferential cleavage plane of single-crystalline Bi 2 Sr 2 CuO 6 is between adjacent Bi-O layers. Deposition of Ag adatoms causes only weak reaction with the Bi and O ions of the Bi 2 Sr 2 CuO 6 substrate, while the Cu states rapidly react with the Ag adatoms, as monitored by a continuous reduction of the Cu 2p satellite intensity as the Ag overlayer becomes thicker

  15. Anti-biofilm efficacy of low temperature processed AgCl–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite coating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Naik, Kshipra, E-mail: kshipra_naik21@yahoo.co.in; Kowshik, Meenal, E-mail: meenal@goa.bits-pilani.ac.in

    2014-01-01

    Biofilms are a major concern in the medical settings and food industries due to their high tolerance to antibiotics, biocides and mechanical stress. Currently, the development of novel methods to control biofilm formation is being actively pursued. In the present study, sol–gel coatings of AgCl–TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles are presented as potential anti-biofilm agents, wherein TiO{sub 2} acts as a good supporting matrix to prevent aggregation of silver and facilitates its controlled release. Low-temperature processed AgCl–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite coatings inhibit biofilm formation by Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In vitro biofilm assay experiments demonstrated that AgCl–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite coated surfaces, inhibited the development of biofilms over a period of 10 days as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The silver release kinetics exhibited an initial high release, followed by a slow and sustained release. The anti-biofilm efficacy of the coatings could be attributed to the release of silver, which prevents the initial bacterial adhesion required for biofilm formation. - Highlights: • Potential of AgCl–TiO{sub 2} nanocomposite coating to inhibit biofilm formation is exhibited. • Initial rapid release followed by later slow and sustained release of silver obtained. • TiO{sub 2} being porous and inorganic in nature acts as a good supporting matrix.

  16. Synthesis and characterization of TiO2/Ag/polymer ternary nanoparticles via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Park, Jung Tae; Koh, Joo Hwan; Seo, Jin Ah; Cho, Yong Soo; Kim, Jong Hak

    2011-01-01

    We report on the novel ternary hybrid materials consisting of semiconductor (TiO 2 ), metal (Ag) and polymer (poly(oxyethylene methacrylate) (POEM)). First, a hydrophilic polymer, i.e. POEM, was grafted from TiO 2 nanoparticles via the surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) technique. These TiO 2 -POEM brush nanoparticles were used to template the formation of Ag nanoparticles by introduction of a AgCF 3 SO 3 precursor and a NaBH 4 aqueous solution for reduction process. Successful grafting of polymeric chains from the surface of TiO 2 nanoparticles and the in situ formation of Ag nanoparticles within the polymeric chains were confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). FT-IR spectroscopy also revealed the specific interaction of Ag nanoparticles with the C=O groups of POEM brushes. This study presents a simple route for the in situ synthesis of both metal and polymer confined within the semiconductor, producing ternary hybrid inorganic-organic nanomaterials.

  17. Preparation of Ag/TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} films via photo-assisted deposition and adsorptive self-assembly for catalytic bactericidal application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Xi, Baojuan, E-mail: baojuanxi@gmail.com [Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119260 (Singapore); Chu, Xiaona; Hu, Jiangyong [Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119260 (Singapore); Bhatia, Charanjit Singh; Danner, Aaron James; Yang, Hyunsoo [Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119260 (Singapore)

    2014-08-30

    Highlights: • We prepared controlledly the silver nanoparticles on TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} film by the facile photoreduction under the aid of structure-directing agents. • We studied the effect of silver loading on the antibactierial behavior of TiO{sub 2} film and optimized the content of silver. • We extended the route to fabricate other metals on substrates. - Abstract: The deterioration of water supply quality due to the waterborne bacteria is an environmental problem requiring the urgent attention. Due to the excellent and synergic antimicrobial capability, Ag-loaded TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst emerges as a feasible measure to guard the water. In our work, Ag nanoparticles have been prepared by the photoassisted reduction of AgNO{sub 3} on the TiO{sub 2} film fabricated by solution-based adsorptive self-assembly approach. The role of surfactant on the growth rate and size controlling of particles is also studied. In this connection, different kinds of surfactants, such as PVP, Tween-20, Tween-40 and so on, are applied in the system to investigate the formation of Ag nanoparticles. The surface profile and elemental analysis of Ag/TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} films are examined by scanning electron microscopy and attached energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. In the anti-bacteria detection, Ag nanoparticles are found to enhance the bactericidal efficiency strongly comparing with the pure TiO{sub 2} film under the same condition. In addition, by comparison with Ag/TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} film in the dark environment as the reference experiment, UV–visible light plays a vital role in the improved bactericidal behavior, demonstrating the more efficient charge separation induced by metal silver. Because of the versatility of the method, the present photoreductive route is also exploited for the synthesis of Au nanoparticles on TiO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} films. The corresponding photocatalytical detection results demonstrate the loading of Au nanoparticles can

  18. Synthesis and crystal structure of the cesium silver permanganate Cs_3Ag[MnO_4]_4

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bauchert, Joerg M.; Henning, Harald; Schleid, Thomas

    2012-01-01

    After successful syntheses and structural refinements of the already known permanganates of cesium (Cs[MnO_4]) and silver (Ag[MnO_4]) we started to blend aqueous solutions of both components in various molar ratios. From crystallization experiments of these mixtures only three species of crystals with different chemical compositions were obtained: tricesium monosilver tetrakispermanganate (Cs_3Ag[MnO_4]_4) and, depending upon the respective ratio, either additional silver permanganate or surplus cesium permanganate, namely. The new title compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnnm (no. 58) with two formula units per unit cell and cell dimensions of a = 764.53(4), b = 1883.57(9) and c = 584.34(3) pm. The crystal structure of Cs_3Ag[MnO_4]_4 consists of two crystallographically distinguishable cesium cations. (Cs1)"+ is surrounded by fourteen oxygen atoms constructing a slightly distorted bicapped hexagonal prism. These polyhedra are connected through edge-sharing with two other polyhedra of this kind to form chains along [001]. The chains are linked to each other via sixfold coordinated Ag"+ cations (d(Ag-O) = 238-246 pm), arranged in such a manner that they link three oxygen atoms of two cesium polyhedra, leading to a two-dimensional layer spreading out parallel to the (001) plane. Together with the two crystallographically different tetrahedral oxomanganate(VII) anions [MnO_4]"- (d(Mn-O) = 161-162 pm) the other kind of cesium cations ((Cs2)"+ with CN = 13) finally connect these layers three-dimensionally. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  19. Structural and optical properties of ZnO nanostructures electrochemically synthesized on AZO/Ag/AZO-multilayer-film-coated polyethersulfone substrates

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Oh, Dohyun; Yoo, Chanho; No, Youngsoo; Kim, Suyoun; Kim, Taewhan; Cho, Woonjo; Kim, Jinyoung

    2012-01-01

    ZnO nanostructures were formed on Al-doped ZnO (AZO)/Ag/AZO-multilayer-film-coated flexible polyethersulfone (PES) substrates at low temperature by using an electrochemical deposition method. The resistivity of the AZO/Ag/AZO multilayer films decreased with increasing thickness of the Ag film. X-ray diffraction patterns for the ZnO nanostructures showed that the crystal structure of the ZnO was hexagonal wurtzite and that the orientation was along the c-axis perpendicular to the substrate. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the ZnO nanostructures grown at current densities of - 1.0 and - 1.5 mA/cm 2 were ZnO nanorods with diameters of 150 nm and ZnO nanoflowers with a planar dimension, respectively. Photoluminescence spectra showed that the band-edge emission peak of the ZnO nanostructures dominantly appeared in the ultraviolet region. These results showed that ZnO nanorods and nanoflowers with high quality were synthesized on AZO/Ag/AZO-multilayer-film-coated PES substrates.

  20. Improvement of photocatalytic activities of Ag/P25 hybrid systems by controlled morphology of Ag nanoprisms

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Ti, E-mail: r01527017@ntu.edu.tw [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan (China); Chao, Bo-Kai, E-mail: d98527007@ntu.edu.tw [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan (China); Kuo, Yu-Lin, E-mail: ylkuo@mail.ntust.edu.tw [Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan (China); Hsueh, Chun-Hway, E-mail: hsuehc@ntu.edu.tw [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan (China)

    2017-05-01

    Constructing hybrid systems with noble metal nanostructures is one known way to improve the poor photocatalysis efficiency of TiO{sub 2} under visible light. In our study, two different Ag nanostructures were prepared: (1) Ag nanospheres synthesized by chemical reduction method, and (2) Ag nanoprisms transformed from nanospheres with an additional photo-conversion process. Both Ag-TiO{sub 2} hybrid systems were prepared by mixing various concentrations of Ag solutions with commercial TiO{sub 2} powder (P25), and they were then utilized as photocatalysts for the photodecolorization test of methyl blue under various light sources (fluorescent, UV light and red LED lamps) irradiations. Results of the photodecolorization tests showed that Ag nanostructures could evidently enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO{sub 2} under different light sources, while an optimal composition of 0.432 wt% Ag nanoprisms/TiO{sub 2} displayed superior photocatalytic properties under visible light irradiations (fluorescent and red LED lamps). The enhanced photocatalytic activities could be mainly attributed to the mechanisms of hot electrons injection and resonant energy transfer by the localized surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanostructures and the electronic states favorable of charge separation at the interface between metals and semiconductors. - Highlights: • We used Ag nanostructures to improve photocatalysis efficiency of TiO{sub 2}. • Ag nanoprisms were more efficient than Ag nanospheres under visible light. • Ag nanoprisms/P25 is about 7 times more efficient than P25 under fluorescent lamp. • Mechanisms rely on hot electrons injection and resonant energy transfer by LSPR.

  1. Improvement of photocatalytic activities of Ag/P25 hybrid systems by controlled morphology of Ag nanoprisms

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Ti; Chao, Bo-Kai; Kuo, Yu-Lin; Hsueh, Chun-Hway

    2017-01-01

    Constructing hybrid systems with noble metal nanostructures is one known way to improve the poor photocatalysis efficiency of TiO_2 under visible light. In our study, two different Ag nanostructures were prepared: (1) Ag nanospheres synthesized by chemical reduction method, and (2) Ag nanoprisms transformed from nanospheres with an additional photo-conversion process. Both Ag-TiO_2 hybrid systems were prepared by mixing various concentrations of Ag solutions with commercial TiO_2 powder (P25), and they were then utilized as photocatalysts for the photodecolorization test of methyl blue under various light sources (fluorescent, UV light and red LED lamps) irradiations. Results of the photodecolorization tests showed that Ag nanostructures could evidently enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO_2 under different light sources, while an optimal composition of 0.432 wt% Ag nanoprisms/TiO_2 displayed superior photocatalytic properties under visible light irradiations (fluorescent and red LED lamps). The enhanced photocatalytic activities could be mainly attributed to the mechanisms of hot electrons injection and resonant energy transfer by the localized surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanostructures and the electronic states favorable of charge separation at the interface between metals and semiconductors. - Highlights: • We used Ag nanostructures to improve photocatalysis efficiency of TiO_2. • Ag nanoprisms were more efficient than Ag nanospheres under visible light. • Ag nanoprisms/P25 is about 7 times more efficient than P25 under fluorescent lamp. • Mechanisms rely on hot electrons injection and resonant energy transfer by LSPR.

  2. Ag/ZnO hybrid systems studied with scanning tunnelling microscopy-based luminescence spectroscopy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pascua, Leandro; Freund, Hans-Joachim; Stavale, Fernando; Nilius, Niklas

    2016-01-01

    Coupled metal/oxide systems are prepared by depositing and embedding Ag nanoparticles into crystalline ZnO films grown on Au(111) supports. The morphology and optical properties of the compounds are investigated by topographic imaging and luminescence spectroscopy performed in a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM). The luminescence of bare ZnO is governed by the band-recombination and a Zn-vacancy related peak. After Ag deposition, two additional maxima are detected that are assigned to the in-plane and out-of-plane plasmon in Ag nanoparticles and have energies below and slightly above the oxide band-gap, respectively. Upon coating the particles with additional ZnO, the out-of-plane plasmon redshifts and loses intensity, indicating strong coupling to the oxide electronic system, while the in-plane mode broadens but remains detectable. The original situation can be restored by gently heating the sample, which drives the silver back to the surface. However, the optical response of pristine ZnO is not recovered even after silver evaporation at high temperature. Small discrepancies are explained with changes in the ZnO defect landscape, e.g., due to silver incorporation. Our experiments demonstrate how energy-transfer processes can be investigated in well-defined metal/oxide systems by means of STM-based spectroscopic techniques.

  3. Ag/ZnO hybrid systems studied with scanning tunnelling microscopy-based luminescence spectroscopy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pascua, Leandro; Freund, Hans-Joachim [Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, D-14195 Berlin (Germany); Stavale, Fernando [Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, D-14195 Berlin (Germany); Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas Físicas - CBPF/MCTI, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, 22290-180 Rio de Janeiro (Brazil); Nilius, Niklas, E-mail: niklas.nilius@uni-oldenburg.de [Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, D-14195 Berlin (Germany); Institut für Physik, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, D-26111 Oldenburg (Germany)

    2016-03-07

    Coupled metal/oxide systems are prepared by depositing and embedding Ag nanoparticles into crystalline ZnO films grown on Au(111) supports. The morphology and optical properties of the compounds are investigated by topographic imaging and luminescence spectroscopy performed in a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM). The luminescence of bare ZnO is governed by the band-recombination and a Zn-vacancy related peak. After Ag deposition, two additional maxima are detected that are assigned to the in-plane and out-of-plane plasmon in Ag nanoparticles and have energies below and slightly above the oxide band-gap, respectively. Upon coating the particles with additional ZnO, the out-of-plane plasmon redshifts and loses intensity, indicating strong coupling to the oxide electronic system, while the in-plane mode broadens but remains detectable. The original situation can be restored by gently heating the sample, which drives the silver back to the surface. However, the optical response of pristine ZnO is not recovered even after silver evaporation at high temperature. Small discrepancies are explained with changes in the ZnO defect landscape, e.g., due to silver incorporation. Our experiments demonstrate how energy-transfer processes can be investigated in well-defined metal/oxide systems by means of STM-based spectroscopic techniques.

  4. Ag2O/sodium alginate-reduced graphene oxide aerogel beads for efficient visible light driven photocatalysis

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ma, Yuhua; Wang, Jiajia; Xu, Shimei; Feng, Shun; Wang, Jide

    2018-02-01

    In this work, one facile and green method was developed to resolve the instinct defects of pure Ag2O and increase visible-light photocatalytic activity of Ag2O-based catalyst. In which, Ag2O was immobilized in sodium alginate-reduced graphene oxide (ALG-rGO) aerogel beads. The as-prepared aerogel beads showed a well-defined interconnected three-dimensional porous network and displayed the highest photocatalytic activity with a mass ratio of 40:1 (ALG:rGO). For the degradation of cationic Rhodamine B (RhB) and anionic dye Orange II (OII) dyes, rate constants were 1.95 × 10-2 min-1 and 4.13 × 10-2 min-1, which were 2.4 and 3.1 times higher than those of Ag2O/ALG aerogel beads, respectively. The further studies demonstrated that presence of rGO can effectively decrease the size of Ag2O, extend photoresponding range (UV to near-infrared light spectrum), speed-up separate photogenerated electrons and holes, retard charge recombination, and prolong electron lifetime and effective carrier diffusion length. The potential mechanism for RhB and OII degrading was expounded, and main active species in the degradation reactions of dyes were investigated by a series of trapping experiments. It offered a promising photocatalyst to purify the wastewater, and provided a sophisticated understanding of the pivotal role rGO acting in photocatalysis.

  5. Attenuation of Microbial Stress Due to Nano-Ag and Nano-TiO2 Interactions under Dark Conditions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wilke, Carolyn M; Tong, Tiezheng; Gaillard, Jean-François; Gray, Kimberly A

    2016-10-04

    Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are incorporated into thousands of commercial products, and their release into environmental systems creates complex mixtures with unknown toxicological outcomes. To explore this scenario, we probe the chemical and toxicological interactions of nanosilver (n-Ag) and nanotitania (n-TiO 2 ) in Lake Michigan water, a natural aqueous medium, under dark conditions. We find that the presence of n-Ag induces a stress response in Escherichia coli, as indicated by a decrease in ATP production observed at low concentrations (in the μg L -1 range), with levels that are environmentally relevant. However, when n-Ag and n-TiO 2 are present together in a mixture, n-TiO 2 attenuates the toxicity of n-Ag at and below 20 μg L -1 by adsorbing Ag + (aq) . We observe, however, that toxic stress cannot be explained by dissolved silver concentrations alone and, therefore, must also depend on silver associated with the nanoscale fraction. Although the attenuating effect of n-TiO 2 on n-Ag's toxicity is limited, this study emphasizes the importance of probing the toxicity of ENM mixtures under environmental conditions to assess how chemical interactions between nanoparticles change the toxicological effects of single ENMs in unexpected ways.

  6. Synthesis and electromagnetic absorption properties of Ag-coated reduced graphene oxide with MnFe_2O_4 particles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang, Yan; Wu, Xinming; Zhang, Wenzhi; Huang, Shuo

    2016-01-01

    A ternary composite of Ag/MnFe_2O_4/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The morphology, microstructure, magnetic and electromagnetic properties of as-prepared Ag/MnFe_2O_4/RGO composite were characterized by means of XRD, TEM, XPS, VSM and vector network analyzer. The maximum reflection loss (R_L) of Ag/ MnFe_2O_4/RGO composite shows maximum absorption of −38 dB at 6 GHz with the thickness of 3.5 mm, and the absorption bandwidth with the R_L below −10 dB is up to 3.5 GHz (from 3.7 to 7.2 GHz). The result demonstrates that the introduction of Ag significantly leads to the multiple absorbing mechanisms. It is believed that such composite could serve as a powerful candidate for microwave absorber. - Highlights: • A ternary composite of Ag/MnFe_2O_4/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was synthesized by a facile method. • The morphology, microstructure, magnetic and electromagnetic properties were characterized. • The maximum reflection loss of Ag/MnFe_2O_4/RGO is −38 dB at 6 GHz with a thickness of 3.5 mm. • The composite shows a wide absorption band.

  7. Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66(Zr) composite with enhanced visible-light promoted photocatalytic activity for dye degradation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sha, Zhou [Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, 117543 (Singapore); NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, #02-01, 117411 (Singapore); Chan, Hardy Sze On [Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, 117543 (Singapore); Wu, Jishan, E-mail: chmwuj@nus.edu.sg [Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, 117543 (Singapore); NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, #02-01, 117411 (Singapore)

    2015-12-15

    Highlights: • UiO-66 was an outstanding substrate due to its superior properties and stability. • Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 photocatalyst was synthesized by a simple solution method. • Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 had excellent RhB degrading activity under visible-light irradiation. • Higher surface area of Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} in Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 led to the enhanced activity. • Diverse active species may participate in the process of RhB degradation. - Abstract: Because of their excellent properties, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered as ideal materials for the development of visible-light photocatalyst. Particularly, although increasing research interests have been put on MOF based photocatalysts, the MOF supported Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} as photocatalyst has not been reported in the field of water treatment. In this study, a zirconium based MOF, UiO-66, was incorporated with Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} through a convenient solution method and used for visible-light prompted dye degradation. Compared to the mixture of pristine UiO-66 and Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}, the developed Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 composite exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity to the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation. It was supposed that the participation of UiO-66 during the synthesis of Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3} was crucial for such improvement. In addition, the Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 composite demonstrated good structural stability after the degradation experiment, and most of its photocatalytic activity was still preserved after the recycle test. Moreover, the photocatalytic mechanism of the Ag{sub 2}CO{sub 3}/UiO-66 composite was investigated and a possible pathway of RhB degradation was also proposed.

  8. Fabrication of AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} nanocatalyst with enhanced and stable photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tang, Dandan [School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070 (China); Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for High Efficient Utilization of Vanadium Resources, Wuhan 430070 (China); Zhang, Gaoke, E-mail: gkzhang@whut.edu.cn [School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070 (China); Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for High Efficient Utilization of Vanadium Resources, Wuhan 430070 (China)

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} nanocatalyst was synthesized via a facile precipitation method. • The composite displays superior e{sup ∧}/h{sup +} pair separation compared to AgFeO{sub 2} and g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. • The composite shows high and stable photocatalytic activity both in water and air. • The active h{sup +} plays the dominate role in the degradation process. - Abstract: This work reported a novel AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composite with enhanced photocatalytic activity, which was fabricated by a simple precipitation method. The g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} sheets with thickness of 2• 4 nm were successfully loaded on the surface of the AgFeO{sub 2} particles. As compared to pure AgFeO{sub 2} and pure g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}, the as-prepared AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} photocatalysts exhibited superior absorption in the visible-light region and displayed promising visible-light photocatalytic performance in the degradation of organic contaminations both in water and in air. About 94% of Acid red G (ARG) can be degraded by the optimized AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} sample, which is ∱/47.5 and ∱/410.7 times higher than that by pure AgFeO{sub 2} and pure g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}, respectively. Meanwhile, it can also effectively degrade ∱/487% of gaseous formaldehyde to CO{sub 2} within 9 h. The enhanced photocatalytic property and stability of the AgFeO{sub 2}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composite can be attributed to its specific nanostructure, effective electron-hole separation and the formation of Z-scheme heterostructure between AgFeO{sub 2} and g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. This work could provide new and helpful insights into the photocatalytic application of Ag-based delafossite materials.

  9. Antifungal activity of magnetically separable Fe3O4/ZnO/AgBr nanocomposites prepared by a facile microwave-assisted method

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Abolghasem Hoseinzadeh

    2016-08-01

    Full Text Available In the present work, magnetically separable Fe3O4/ZnO/AgBr nanocomposites with different weight ratios of Fe3O4 to ZnO/AgBr were prepared by a facile microwave-assisted method. The resultant samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, transmission electron microscopy (TEM, energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDX, and vibrating sample magnetometery (VSM. Antifungal activity of the as-prepared samples was evaluated against Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium oxysporum as two phytopathogenic fungi. Among the nanocomposites, the sample with 1:8 weight ratio of Fe3O4 to ZnO/AgBr was selected as the best nanocomposite. This nanocomposite inactivates Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium oxysporum at 120 and 60 min, respectively. Moreover, it was observed that the microwave irradiation time has considerable influence on the antifungal activity and the sample prepared by irradiation for 10 min showed the best activity. Moreover, the nanocomposite without any thermal treatment displayed the superior activity.

  10. Facile synthesis of Ag@CeO{sub 2} core–shell plasmonic photocatalysts with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wu, Linen; Fang, Siman [State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Science, China University of Petroleum Beijing, No. 18 Fuxue Rd., Beijing 102249 (China); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Science, China University of Petroleum Beijing, No. 18 Fuxue Rd., Beijing 102249 (China); Ge, Lei, E-mail: gelei08@sina.com [State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Science, China University of Petroleum Beijing, No. 18 Fuxue Rd., Beijing 102249 (China); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Science, China University of Petroleum Beijing, No. 18 Fuxue Rd., Beijing 102249 (China); Han, Changcun; Qiu, Ping; Xin, Yongji [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Science, China University of Petroleum Beijing, No. 18 Fuxue Rd., Beijing 102249 (China)

    2015-12-30

    Highlights: • Novel Ag@CeO{sub 2} core–shell nanostructures with well-controlled shape and shell thickness were successfully synthesized. • The Ag@CeO{sub 2} showed dramatic photocatalytic activity than pure CeO{sub 2}. • Improving activity is from a combination of SPR effect and hybrid effects. • The mechanism was proposed and confirmed by ESR and PL results. - Abstract: Novel Ag@CeO{sub 2} core–shell nanostructures with well-controlled shape and shell thickness were successfully synthesized via a green and facile template-free approach in aqueous solution. As-prepared samples were characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS), electron spin resonance (ESR) and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The structures with different core shapes and controllable shell thickness exhibited unique optical properties. It is found that the nanoscale Ag@CeO{sub 2} core–shell photocatalysts exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities in the O{sub 2} evolution and MB dye degradation compared to pure CeO{sub 2} nanoparticals. The enhancement in photocatalytic activities can be ascribed to the localized surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of Ag cores. Moreover, larger active interfacial areas and contact between metal/semiconductor in the core–shell structure facilitate transfer of charge carriers and prolong lifetime of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. It is expected that the Ag@CeO{sub 2} core–shell structure may have great potential in a wider range of light-harvesting applications.

  11. High magnetic coercivity of FePt-Ag/MgO granular nanolayers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Roghani, R.; Sebt, S. A.; Khajehnezhad, A.

    2018-06-01

    L10-FePt ferromagnetic nanoparticles have a hight coercivity of Tesla order. Thus, these nanoparticles, with size of 10 to 15 nm and uniform surface distribution, are suitable in magnetic data storage technology with density of more than 1GB. In order to improve structural and magnetic properties of FePt nanoparticles, some elements and combinations have been added to compound. In this research, we show that due to the presence of the Ag, the phase transition temperature of FePt from fcc to L10-fct phase decreases. The presence of Ag as an additive in FePt-Ag nanocomposite, increases the magnetic coercivity. This nanocomposite, with 10% Ag, was deposited by magnetron sputtering on the MgO heat layer. VSM results of 10 nm nanoparticles show that coercivity has increased up to 1.4 T. XRD and FESEM results confirm that the size of the L10-FePt nanoparticles are 10 nm and their surface distribution are uniform. Ag gradually form nano scale clusters with separate lattice and FePt-Ag nanocomposite appears. The result of this process is emptiness of Ag position in FePt-fcc lattice. So, the mobility of Fe and Pt atoms in this lattice increases and it can be possible for them to move in lower temperature. This mechanism explain the effect of Ag on decreasing the transition temperature to fct-L10 phase, and hight coercivity of FePt nanoparticles.

  12. A novel approach for the synthesis of ultrathin silica-coated iron oxide nanocubes decorated with silver nanodots (Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag) and their superior catalytic reduction of 4-nitroaniline

    Science.gov (United States)

    Abbas, Mohamed; Torati, Sri Ramulu; Kim, Cheolgi

    2015-07-01

    A novel sonochemical approach was developed for the synthesis of different core/shell structures of Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes and SiO2/Ag nanospheres. The total reaction time of the three sonochemical steps for the synthesis of Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes is shorter than that of the previously reported methods. A proposed reaction mechanism for the sonochemical functionalization of the silica and the silver on the surface of magnetic nanocubes was discussed in detail. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the surface of Fe3O4/SiO2 nanocubes was decorated with small Ag nanoparticles of approximately 10-20 nm in size, and the energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping analysis confirmed the morphology of the structure. Additionally, X-ray diffraction data were used to confirm the formation of both phases of a cubic inverse spinel structure for Fe3O4 and bcc structures for Ag in the core/shell structure of the Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes. The as-synthesized Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes showed a high efficiency in the catalytic reduction reaction of 4-nitroaniline to 4-phenylenediamine and a better performance than both Ag and SiO2/Ag nanoparticles. The grafted silver catalyst was recycled and reused at least fifteen times without a significant loss of catalytic efficiency.A novel sonochemical approach was developed for the synthesis of different core/shell structures of Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes and SiO2/Ag nanospheres. The total reaction time of the three sonochemical steps for the synthesis of Fe3O4/SiO2/Ag nanocubes is shorter than that of the previously reported methods. A proposed reaction mechanism for the sonochemical functionalization of the silica and the silver on the surface of magnetic nanocubes was discussed in detail. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the surface of Fe3O4/SiO2 nanocubes was decorated with small Ag nanoparticles of approximately 10-20 nm in size, and the energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping analysis confirmed the morphology of the

  13. SERS-active ZnO/Ag hybrid WGM microcavity for ultrasensitive dopamine detection

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lu, Junfeng; Xu, Chunxiang; Nan, Haiyan; Zhu, Qiuxiang; Qin, Feifei; Manohari, A. Gowri; Wei, Ming; Zhu, Zhu; Shi, Zengliang; Ni, Zhenhua

    2016-08-01

    Dopamine (DA) is a potential neuro modulator in the brain which influences a variety of motivated behaviors and plays a key role in life science. A hybrid ZnO/Ag microcavity based on Whispering Gallery Mode (WGM) effect has been developed for ultrasensitive detection of dopamine. Utilizing this effect of structural cavity mode, a Raman signal of R6G (5 × 10-3 M) detected by this designed surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-active substrate was enhanced more than 10-fold compared with that of ZnO film/Ag substrate. Also, this hybrid microcavity substrate manifests high SERS sensitivity to rhodamine 6 G and detection limit as low as 10-12 M to DA. The Localized Surface Plasmons of Ag nanoparticles and WGM-enhanced light-matter interaction mainly contribute to the high SERS sensitivity and help to achieve a lower detection limit. This designed SERS-active substrate based on the WGM effect has the potential for detecting neurotransmitters in life science.

  14. In Situ Synthesis of Ag@Cu2O-rGO Architecture for Strong Light-Matter Interactions

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shuang Guo

    2018-06-01

    Full Text Available Emerging opportunities based on two-dimensional (2D layered structures can utilize a variety of complex geometric architectures. Herein, we report the synthesis and properties of a 2D+0D unique ternary platform-core-shell nanostructure, termed Ag@Cu2O-rGO, where the reduced graphene oxide (rGO 2D acting as a platform is uniformly decorated by Ag@Cu2O core-shell nanoparticles. Cu2O nanoparticles occupy the defect positions on the surface of the rGO platform and restore the conjugation of the rGO structure, which contributes to the significant decrease of the ID/IG intensity ratio. The rGO platform can not only bridge the isolated nanoparticles together but also can quickly transfer the free electrons arising from the Ag core to the Cu2O shell to improve the utilization efficiency of photogenerated electrons, as is verified by high efficient photocatalytic activity of Methyl Orange (MO. The multi-interface coupling of the Ag@Cu2O-rGO platform-core-shell nanostructure leads to the decrease of the bandgap with an increase of the Cu2O shell thickness, which broadens the absorption range of the visible light spectrum.

  15. 7 CFR 4290.1140 - RBIC's acceptance of remedies under § 4290.1810.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... INVESTMENT COMPANY (âRBICâ) PROGRAM Financial Assistance for RBICs (Leverage) General Information About Obtaining Leverage § 4290.1140 RBIC's acceptance of remedies under § 4290.1810. If you issue Leverage, you automatically agree to the terms and conditions in § 4290.1810 as it exists at the time of issuance. The effect...

  16. Fabrication and EMI shielding effectiveness of Ag-decorated highly porous poly(vinyl alcohol)/Fe2O3 nanofibrous composites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kim, Hae-Rim; Kim, Byoung-Suhk; Kim, Ick-Soo

    2012-01-01

    The Ag-decorated poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite nanofibrous webs incorporating Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles were fabricated by electrospinning and metal-deposition methods for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. The Ag-decorated PVA/Fe 2 O 3 composite nanofiber webs with various Ag thicknesses and different amounts of Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles were prepared and used for EMI shielding measurement. For the EMI SE measurement, a near-field antenna measurement system was used. The measurement of EMI SE was carried out at the frequency range from 0.5 to 18 GHz, and the electromagnetic parameters were measured. The morphologies and microstructures of the resultant PVA/Fe 2 O 3 composite nanofiber webs were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The effects of surface morphologies and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles on the EMI shielding effectiveness of Ag-decorated PVA/Fe 2 O 3 composite nanofiber webs were investigated. -- Highlights: ► We prepare Ag-decorated poly(vinyl alcohol) nanowebs incorporating Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles. ► Solvents will affect the fiber morphologies and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles dispersion. ► EMI shielding effectiveness depends on the metal thickness and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles dispersion.

  17. Preparation and characterization of Fe3O4-Ag2O quantum dots decorated cellulose nanofibers as a carrier of anticancer drugs for skin cancer.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fakhri, Ali; Tahami, Shiva; Nejad, Pedram Afshar

    2017-10-01

    The Best performance drug delivery systems designed with Fe 3 O 4 -Ag 2 O quantum dots decorated cellulose nanofibers which that grafted with Etoposide and Methotrexate. Morphology properties were characterized by Scanning and Transmittance electron microscopy. The crystalline structure of prepared sample was evaluated using by X-ray diffraction. The vibrating sample magnetometer analysis was used for magnetic behavior of samples. The size distributions of Fe 3 O 4 -Ag 2 O QDs/Cellulose fibers nanocomposites indicate that the average diameter was 62.5nm. The Saturation magnetization (Ms) indicates the Fe 3 O 4 -Ag 2 O QDs/Cellulose fibers nanocomposites have ferromagnetic properties in nature. For make carrier, the Iron and Silver should be binds to cellulose nanofibers and to drug molecules and observe in UV-vis spectroscopy. The drug release kinetics was studied in vitro as spectrophotometrically. The release of Etoposide and Methotrexate were carried out with a constant speed, and the equilibrium reached at 24 and 30h with a total amount 78.94% and 63.84%, respectively. The results demonstrated that the obtained Fe 3 O 4 -Ag 2 O quantum dots/cellulose fibers nanocomposites could be applied for drug delivery systems. Cytotoxicity and antioxidant study confirmed the activity of the drug incorporated in nanocomposites. In addition, the cytotoxicity of drug was increased when loaded on nanocomposites, compared to pure Fe 3 O 4 -Ag 2 O quantum dots/cellulose fibers nanocomposites. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Ultrafine Ag/MnO{sub x} nanowire-constructed hair-like nanoarchitecture: In situ synthesis, formation mechanism and its supercapacitive property

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Yonghe; Wang, Zhenyu; Zhang, Yuefei, E-mail: yfzhang@bjut.edu.cn

    2015-09-25

    Graphical abstract: In this work, novel hair-like (HL) nanoarchitectures constructed by ultrafine MnO{sub x} nanowires (∼7 nm) entrapped with Ag nanoparticle were first synthesized by facile in situ reaction between Ag nanowires and KMnO{sub 4}, and a following hydrothermal method. The as-prepared HL Ag/MnO{sub x} nanocomposites as electrode delivered a high specific capacitance and good cycle stability. - Highlights: • Ultrafine MnO{sub x} nanowires with Ag nanoparticle dispersed on were in situ prepared. • Kirkendall effect and Ostwald ripening mechanism ascribed to developed morphology. • Desirable specific capacitance and cyclability made it candidate for supercapacitors. - Abstract: Hair-like (HL) nanoarchitectures constructed by ultrafine MnO{sub x} nanowires (∼7 nm) with ultrafine Ag nanoparticles anchored on were synthesized by in situ facile reaction between silver (Ag) nanowires and potassium permanganate (KMnO{sub 4}), and followed by a following hydrothermal method. Based on a serious of time-dependent experiments, an orderly merged Kirkendall effect and dissolution-recrystallization (Ostwald ripening) mechanism were proposed for the formation of this novel morphology. The as-prepared HL Ag/MnO{sub x} nanocomposites as electrode exhibited a high specific capacitance (526 Fg{sup −1} at scan rate of 5 mV s{sup −1} and 450 Fg{sup −1} at current density of 0.1 Ag{sup −1}), good rate capability (ca. 45.5% retention with reference to 205 Fg{sup −1} at 50 times higher current density of 5 Ag{sup −1}) and desirable cycle stability (ranging from initial of 237 Fg{sup −1} to 185 Fg{sup −1} after 800 cycles and still maintaining 87% retention compared to 800th cycle after another 2800 cycles at current density of 2 Ag{sup −1}). Such desirable performance could be attributed to HL Ag/MnO{sub x} nanocomposites core (tubular nanosheets) with uniform dispersion of the ultrafine Ag nanoparticals provides a direct pathway for electron

  19. Ag2S/CdS/TiO2 Nanotube Array Films with High Photocurrent Density by Spotting Sample Method

    OpenAIRE

    Sun, Hong; Zhao, Peini; Zhang, Fanjun; Liu, Yuliang; Hao, Jingcheng

    2015-01-01

    Ag2S/CdS/TiO2 hybrid nanotube array films (Ag2S/CdS/TNTs) were prepared by selectively depositing a narrow-gap semiconductor—Ag2S (0.9 eV) quantum dots (QDs)—in the local domain of the CdS/TiO2 nanotube array films by spotting sample method (SSM). The improvement of sunlight absorption ability and photocurrent density of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotube array films (TNTs) which were obtained by anodic oxidation method was realized because of modifying semiconductor QDs. The CdS/TNTs, Ag2S/TNT...

  20. Synthesis and evaluation of optical and antimicrobial properties of Ag-SnO2 nanocomposites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kumar Nair, Kishore; Kumar, Promod; Kumar, Vinod; Harris, R. A.; Kroon, R. E.; Viljoen, Bennie; Shumbula, P. M.; Mlambo, M.; Swart, H. C.

    2018-04-01

    We report on the sol-gel based room temperature synthesis of undoped SnO2 and Ag-SnO2 nanostructures. The synthesized nanostructures were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and UV-visible spectroscopy. The XRD pattern confirmed that the obtained nanostructures have a tetragonally rutile structure. No extra phase changes were observed after Ag doping. UV-visible spectroscopy measurements indicated that the band gap of 3.59 eV for pure SnO2 nanostructures, decreased to 3.39 eV after doping. TEM analysis showed that no regular shape morphology existed and some rod-shaped particles were also detected in the nanostructures. The antibacterial activity of the nanostructures against E. coli was evaluated and a continuous decrease of microbial count was observed. The microbial population decreased from 6 × 105 cfu/ml to 7 × 104 cfu/ml and 5 × 104 cfu/ml on SnO2 and Ag-SnO2 treatments, respectively. Thus, the nanostructures can be used for the biorational management of E. coli for waste water treatment before discharge.

  1. Structural Defects of Silver Hollandite, Ag(x)Mn8O(y), Nanorods: Dramatic Impact on Electrochemistry.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Lijun; Xu, Feng; Zhu, Yimei; Brady, Alexander B; Huang, Jianping; Durham, Jessica L; Dooryhee, Eric; Marschilok, Amy C; Takeuchi, Esther S; Takeuchi, Kenneth J

    2015-08-25

    Hollandites (OMS-2) are an intriguing class of sorbents, catalysts, and energy storage materials with a tunnel structure permitting one-dimensional insertion and deinsertion of ions and small molecules along the c direction. A 7-fold increase in delivered capacity for Li/AgxMn8O16 electrochemical cells (160 versus 23 mAh/g) observed upon a seemingly small change in silver content (x ∼1.1 (L-Ag-OMS-2) and 1.6 (H-Ag-OMS-2)) led us to characterize the structure and defects of the silver hollandite material. Herein, Ag hollandite nanorods are studied through the combined use of local (atomic imaging, electron diffraction, electron energy-loss spectroscopy) and bulk (synchrotron based X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis) techniques. Selected area diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy show a structure consistent with that refined by XRD; however, the Ag occupancy varies significantly even within neighboring channels. Both local and bulk measurements indicate a greater quantity of oxygen vacancies in L-Ag-OMS-2, resulting in lower average Mn valence relative to H-Ag-OMS-2. Electron energy loss spectroscopy shows a lower Mn oxidation state on the surface relative to the interior of the nanorods, where the average Mn valence is approximately Mn(3.7+) for H-Ag-OMS-2 and Mn(3.5+) for L-Ag-OMS-2 nanorods, respectively. The higher delivered capacity of L-Ag-OMS-2 may be related to more oxygen vacancies compared to H-Ag-OMS-2. Thus, the oxygen vacancies and MnO6 octahedra distortion are assumed to open the MnO6 octahedra walls, facilitating Li diffusion in the ab plane. These results indicate crystallite size and surface defects are significant factors affecting battery performance.

  2. Ag-Decorated ATaO3 (A = K, Na) Nanocube Plasmonic Photocatalysts with Enhanced Photocatalytic Water-Splitting Properties.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xu, Dongbo; Yang, Songbo; Jin, Yu; Chen, Min; Fan, Weiqiang; Luo, Bifu; Shi, Weidong

    2015-09-08

    Tantalate semiconductor nanocrystals have been at the forefront of the photocatalytic conversion of solar energy to supply hydrogen owing to their favorable and tunable optical and electronic properties as well as advances in their synthesis. However, a narrow band gap is required for response to improve the efficiency of the photocatalysts. Here we propose an efficient enhancement of the H2 generation under simulated sunlight and visible light irradiation by a dispersion of Ag-decorated KTaO3 and NaTaO3 nanocubes. X-ray diffraction and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra are used to characterize the products. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and high-resolution high-angle annular dark-field scanning TEM (HAADF-STEM) images show that the Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are uniformly loaded on the surfaces of KTaO3 and NaTaO3. The photocatalytic water-splitting results over Ag-decorated KTaO3 and NaTaO3 show that the rate for H2 evolution from aqueous CH3OH solutions is up to 185.60 and 3.54 μmol/h·g under simulated sunlight and the rate for H2 evolution is more than 2 times than that of pure NaTaO3 and KTaO3 materials. However, under purely visible light illumination the highest H2 evolution of 25.94 and 0.83 μmol/h·g is observed in the case of Ag-decorated KTaO3 and NaTaO3 nanocubes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the photocatalytic water-splitting activity of the prepared Ag-decorated KTaO3 and NaTaO3 nanocubes has been reported.

  3. Visible-light photoactivity of plasmonic silver supported on mesoporous TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles (Ag-MTN) for enhanced degradation of 2-chlorophenol: Limitation of Ag-Ti interaction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jaafar, N.F. [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Jalil, A.A., E-mail: aishahaj@utm.my [Centre of Hydrogen Energy, Institute of Future Energy, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Triwahyono, S. [Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia); Centre for Sustainable Nanomaterials, Ibnu Sina Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, UTM, 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia)

    2017-01-15

    Highlights: • Ag{sup 0} loaded on MTN was prepared by a direct in-situ electrochemical method. • The introduction of Ag{sup 0} lowers the band gap and increases the number of OV and TSD. • Ag{sup 0} acted as an electrons trapper and also a plasmonic sensitizer. • The formation of Ti-O-Ag in 10 wt% Ag-MTN decreased the amount of Ag{sup 0}, TSD and OV. • 5 wt% Ag-MTN gave the highest percentage of photodegradation of 2-CP. - Abstract: Various weight loadings of Ag (1–10 wt.%) were introduced to mesoporous titania nanoparticles (MTN) via a direct in-situ electrochemical method. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, surface area analysis, FTIR, ESR, FESEM-EDX and TEM. Characterization results indicated that the introduction of Ag onto MTN decreased the particles size and band gap of the MTN while increasing the number of oxygen vacancies (OV) and Ti{sup 3+} site defects (TSD). The activity performance of Ag-MTN on photodegradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) under visible light irradiation was in the following order: 5 wt% Ag-MTN> 1 wt% Ag-MTN > MTN > 10 wt% Ag-MTN, with degradation percentages of 97, 88, 80 and 63%, respectively. The synergistic effect between Ag{sup 0} and MTN seemed to play an important role in the system. The Ag0 acted as both an electron trap and a plasmonic sensitizer which suppressed the electron-hole recombination, while OV and TSD in the MTN accelerated the production of hydroxyl radicals for enhanced degradation of 2-CP. However, the formation of Ti-O-Ag in 10 wt% Ag-MTN was found to decrease the photoactivity due to the decrease in the formation of Ag{sup 0}, TSD and OV as well as the increase in band gap energy. The photodegradation of 5 wt% Ag-MTN followed a pseudo-first-order Langmuir- Hinshelwood model and the catalyst was still stable after five cycles.

  4. Electronic and optical properties of AgAlO{sub 2}: A first-principles study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bhamu, K.C., E-mail: kcbhamu85@gmail.com; Priolkar, K.R.

    2017-04-01

    In this paper, we present electronic and optical properties of silver-based delafossite compound AgAlO{sub 2} (AAO). For the electronic properties, we have computed band structure and density of states. The origin of band structure is elucidated in terms of density of states. A significant contribution in band structure comes from Ag-4d and O-2p states around the Fermi level. The estimated band gap shows the indirect semiconducting nature of AAO having the band gap value of 2.34 eV. For the optical properties, we have calculated frequency dependent dielectric functions. The peaks in the imaginary component of dielectric function are explained by electronic transitions in the dispersion relation. Our computed results are in agreement with those available in the literature. The wide band gap and hence transparency for the UV and visible incident light photons makes AAO a precious material for transparent electronics. - Highlights: • Applied different-different types of exchange-correlations and potentials. • Becke–Johnson with Hubbard potential (BJ + U) is better for 2H-AgAlO{sub 2}. • Band gap is in reasonable agreement with experimentally reported. • Origin of energy bands is elucidated in terms of density of states. • 2H-AgAlO{sub 2} is a promising candidate for transparent electronics.

  5. Preparation of Ag@mSiO{sub 2} and Pt@mSiO{sub 2}nano composites using trioctylmethyl ammonium hydrogen phthalate (TOMAHP) ionic liquid as reaction medium

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Biswas, Sujoy, E-mail: sujoyb@barc.gov.in [Chemical Engineering Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India); Dasgupta, Kinshuk [Materials Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India); Bahadur, Jitendra [Solid State Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India); Tewari, Raghavendra [Materials Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India); Mazumder, Subhasish [Solid State Physics Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085 (India)

    2016-09-15

    A novel one step green chemistry approach utilizing trioctylmethyl ammonium hydrogen phthalate (TOMAHP), task specific ionic liquid has been attempted for synthesis of Ag and Pt nanoparticles supported on silica (Ag@mSiO{sub 2} and Pt@mSiO{sub 2}). Structure, size distribution and morphology of these nano-composite particles were evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), small angle neutron scattering (SANS) as well as small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques. The XRD results show that Ag/Pt metal nanoparticles deposited on to SiO{sub 2} surface are face center cubic (fcc) in nature. The TEM and SAXS/SANS results show the morphology and size distributions of Ag and Pt nanoparticles loaded on to the surface of SiO{sub 2}. It has been found that Ag nanoparticles are well dispersed on to the SiO{sub 2} surface and are quite monodisperse in size, whereas Pt nanoparticles are quite polydisperse in size and forms aggregate or chain like structure on SiO{sub 2} surface containing primary nanoparticles of typical size range 3–7 nm. The stability of nanoparticles, which controls its dispersion on SiO{sub 2} substrate, has been discussed. - Graphical abstract: Mechanism for Ag@mSiO{sub 2} and Pt@mSiO{sub 2} nano composites in TOMAHP ionic liquid medium. - Highlights: • Novel methods for preparation of Pt@SiO{sub 2} and Ag@SiO{sub 2} nano composite in functionalized ionic liquid. • Pt@SiO{sub 2} and Ag@SiO{sub 2} nano composite are characterized using XRD, TEM as well as small angle x-ray scattering techniques. • The sizes of nano composite is <10 nm in size. • The method is simple one step, green chemical reduction method to prepare SiO{sub 2} support nano catalyst.

  6. Silver distribution in crystals and intercrystalline space of YBa2Cu3O7-σ-Ag composite materials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kozakov, A.T.; Klevtsov, A.N.; Shevtsova, S.I.; Razumovskaya, O.N.

    1991-01-01

    Chemical and phase composition is investigated of the YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-σ -Ag composite obtained by means of Ag diffusion in high-temperature superconductor and by sintering yttrium, barium and copper with Ag or Ag 2 O. In composite samples, obtained by sintering at 900 deg C during 24 h in air and oxygen, is found silver not only in intercrystalline gaps in the form of single formations with dimensions of 1-20 μm at small content of copper, but in the crystallite composition. In samples, obtained by Ag diffusion into high-density ceramics, are found conglomerates of silver, uniformly distributed in the all volume

  7. Vertically oriented TiO(x)N(y) nanopillar arrays with embedded Ag nanoparticles for visible-light photocatalysis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jiang, Weitao; Ullah, Najeeb; Divitini, Giorgio; Ducati, Caterina; Kumar, R Vasant; Ding, Yucheng; Barber, Zoe H

    2012-03-27

    We present a straightforward method to produce highly crystalline, vertically oriented TiO(x)N(y) nanopillars (up to 1 μm in length) with a band gap in the visible-light region. This process starts with reactive dc sputtering to produce a TiN porous film, followed by a simple oxidation process at elevated temperatures in oxygen or air. By controlling the oxidation conditions, the band gap of the prepared TiO(x)N(y) can be tuned to different wavelength within the range of visible light. Furthermore, in order to inhibit carrier recombination to enhance the photocatalytic activity, Ag nanoparticles have been embedded into the nanogaps between the TiO(x)N(y) pillars by photoinduced reduction of Ag(+) (aq) irradiated with visible light. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the Ag nanoparticles with a diameter of about 10 nm are uniformly dispersed along the pillars. The prepared TiO(x)N(y) nanopillar matrix and Ag:TiO(x)N(y) network show strong photocatalytic activity under visible-light irradiation, evaluated via degradation of Rhodamine B. © 2012 American Chemical Society

  8. Bidirectional threshold switching characteristics in Ag/ZrO{sub 2}/Pt electrochemical metallization cells

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Du, Gang, E-mail: dugang@hdu.edu.cn; Li, Hongxia; Mao, Qinan; Ji, Zhenguo [College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Wang, Chao [Key Laboratory of Nanodevices and Applications, Suzhou Institute of Nano-tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ruoshui Road 398, Suzhou 215123 (China)

    2016-08-15

    A bidirectional threshold switching (TS) characteristic was demonstrated in Ag/ZrO{sub 2}/Pt electrochemical metallization cells by using the electrochemical active Ag electrode and appropriate programming operation strategies The volatile TS was stable and reproducible and the rectify ratio could be tuned to ∼10{sup 7} by engineering the compliance current. We infer that the volatile behavior is essentially due to the moisture absorption in the electron beam evaporated films, which remarkably improved the anodic oxidation as well as the migration of Ag{sup +} ions. The resultant electromotive force would act as a driving force for the metal filaments dissolution, leading to the spontaneous volatile characteristics. Moreover, conductance quantization behaviors were also achieved owing to formation and annihilation of atomic scale metal filaments in the film matrix. Our results illustrate that the Ag/ZrO{sub 2}/Pt device with superior TS performances is a promising candidate for selector applications in passive crossbar arrays.

  9. Phase equilibrium in the AgI-RbI-H2O system at 25 deg C

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Stepin, B.D.; Serebrennikova, G.M.; Sazikova, L.A.; Starikova, Z.A.

    1977-01-01

    The triple system of AgI-RbI-H 2 O at 25 deg C was studied by the isothermal method. The formation of the Rb 2 AgI 3 complex compound, which dissolves in water with decomposition, was established. A powder pattern of Rb 2 AgI 3 was indexed

  10. Improved solar-driven photocatalytic performance of Ag_2CO_3/(BiO)_2CO_3 prepared in-situ

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhong, Junbo; Li, Jianzhang; Huang, Shengtian; Cheng, Chaozhu; Yuan, Wei; Li, Minjiao; Ding, Jie

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag_2CO_3/(BiO)_2CO_3 photocatalysts were prepared in-situ. • The photo-induced charge separation rate has been greatly increased. • The photocatalytic activity has been greatly promoted. - Abstract: Ag_2CO_3/(BiO)_2CO_3 composites have been fabricated in-situ via a facile parallel flaw co-precipitation method. The specific surface area, structure, morphology, and the separation rate of photo-induced charge pairs of the photocatalysts were characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy(DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and surface photovoltage (SPV) spectroscopy, respectively. XRD patterns and DRS demonstrated that Ag_2CO_3 has no effect on the crystal phase and bandgap of (BiO)_2CO_3. The existence of Ag_2CO_3 in the composites enhances the separation rate of photo-induced charge pairs of the photocatalysts. The photocatalytic performance of Ag_2CO_3/(BiO)_2CO_3 was evaluated by the decolorization of methyl orange (MO) aqueous solution under simulated solar irradiation. It was found that the simulated solar-induced photocatalytic activity of Ag_2CO_3/(BiO)_2CO_3 copmposites was significantly improved, which was mainly attributed to the enhanced surface area and the separation rate of photo-induced charge pairs.

  11. Heat Treatment Effect on Eu3+ Doped TeO2-BaO-Bi2O3 Glass Systems with Ag Nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tomasz Lewandowski

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Glass systems of 73TeO2-4BaO-3Bi2O3-2Eu2O3-xAg (in molar ratio where x = 0, 1, 2, and 3 compositions have been successfully synthesized. Silver nanoparticles were obtained with the employment of heat treatment (HT procedure executed at 350°C. Glass transition temperatures of different compositions have been determined through DSC measurements. XRD results presented characteristic amorphous halo indicating lack of long range order in the samples. FTIR structural studies revealed that glass matrix is mainly composed of TeO3 and TeO4 species and is stable after different applied heat treatment times. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS measurements confirmed that in selected samples part of Ag ions changed oxidation state to form Ag0 species. TEM measurements revealed nanoparticles of size in the range of 20–40 nm. UV-vis absorption results demonstrated characteristic transitions of Eu3+ ions. Additionally, UV-vis spectra of samples heat-treated for 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours presented bands related to silver nanoparticles. Photoluminescence (PL studies have been performed with excitation wavelength of λexc=395 nm. Obtained spectra exhibited peaks due to 5D0-7FJ (where J=2,3,4 and 5D1-7FJ (where J=1,2,3 transitions of Eu3+. Moreover, luminescence measurement indicated enhancement of rare earth ions emissions in several of the annealed samples. Increase of emission intensity of about 35% has been observed.

  12. Mechanism and experimental study on the photocatalytic performance of Ag/AgCl @ chiral TiO{sub 2} nanofibers photocatalyst: The impact of wastewater components

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Dawei [Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development of Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University. Xi Kang Road #1, Nanjing 210098 (China); Li, Yi, E-mail: envly@hhu.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development of Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University. Xi Kang Road #1, Nanjing 210098 (China); Li Puma, Gianluca [Environmental Nanocatalysis & Photoreaction Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU (United Kingdom); Wang, Chao; Wang, Peifang; Zhang, Wenlong; Wang, Qing [Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development of Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University. Xi Kang Road #1, Nanjing 210098 (China)

    2015-03-21

    Highlights: • The effect of wastewater matrix on Ag/AgCl based nanomaterials was investigated. • DOM acted as a reactive oxygen species scavenger. • Cl{sup −} could accelerate the transformation from Ag to AgCl. • A relative rate technique was used to quantify these components impacts. - Abstract: The effect of the water matrix components of a secondary effluent of a urban wastewater treatment plant on the photocatalytic activity of Ag/AgCl @ chiral TiO{sub 2} nanofibers and the undergoing reaction mechanisms were investigated. These effects were evaluated through the water components-induced changes on the net rate of hydroxyl radical (·OH) generation and modeled using a relative rate technique. Dissolved organic matter DOM (k = −2.8 × 10{sup 8} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) scavenged reactive oxygen species, Cl{sup −} (k = −5.3 × 10{sup 8} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) accelerated the transformation from Ag to AgCl (which is not photocatalytically active under visible-light irradiation), while Ca{sup 2+} at concentrations higher than 50 mM (k = −1.3 × 10{sup 9} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) induced aggregation of Ag/AgCl and thus all of them revealed inhibitory effects. In contrast, NO{sub 3}{sup −} (k = 6.9 × 10{sup 8} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) and CO{sub 3}{sup 2−} (k = 3.7 × 10{sup 8} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) improved the photocatalytic activity of Ag/AgCl slightly by improving the rate of HO· generation. Other ubiquitous secondary effluent components including SO{sub 4}{sup 2−} (k = 3.9 × 10{sup 5} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}), NH{sub 3}{sup +} (k = 3.5 × 10{sup 5} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) and Na{sup +} (k = 2.6 × 10{sup 4} M{sup −1} s{sup −1}) had negligible effects. 90% of 17-α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) spiked in the secondary effluent was removed within 12 min, while the structure and size of Ag/AgCl @ chiral TiO{sub 2} nanofibers remained stable. This work may be helpful not only to uncover the photocatalytic mechanism of Ag/AgCl based

  13. Growth and characterization of ultrathin epitaxial MnO film on Ag(001)

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kundu, Asish K.; Menon, Krishnakumar S. R.

    2016-07-01

    We present here a comprehensive growth procedure to obtain a well-ordered MnO(001) ultrathin film on Ag(001) substrate. Depending upon the oxygen partial pressure during the growth, different phases of manganese oxide have been detected by Low Energy Electron Diffraction (LEED) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic (XPS) studies. A modified growth scheme has been adopted to get well-ordered and stoichiometric MnO(001) ultrathin film. The detailed growth mechanism of epitaxial MnO film on Ag(001) has been studied step by step, using LEED and XPS techniques. Observation of sharp (1 × 1) LEED pattern with a low inelastic background, corresponds to a long-range atomic order with low defect densities indicating the high structural quality of the film. The Mn 2p and Mn 3s core-level spectra confirm the oxidation state as well as the stoichiometry of the grown MnO films. Apart from the growth optimization, the evolution of strain relaxation of the MnO(001) film with film thickness has been explored.

  14. Effect of Ag doping on the structural, electrical and optical properties of ZnO grown by MOCVD at different substrate temperatures

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ievtushenko, A.; Karpyna, V.; Eriksson, J.; Tsiaoussis, I.; Shtepliuk, I.; Lashkarev, G.; Yakimova, R.; Khranovskyy, V.

    2018-05-01

    ZnO films and nanostructures were deposited on Si substrates by MOCVD using single source solid state zinc acetylacetonate (Zn(AA)) precursor. Doping by silver was realized in-situ via adding 1 and 10 wt. % of Ag acetylacetonate (Ag(AA)) to zinc precursor. Influence of Ag on the microstructure, electrical and optical properties of ZnO at temperature range 220-550 °C was studied by scanning, transmission electron and Kelvin probe force microscopy, photoluminescence and four-point probe electrical measurements. Ag doping affects the ZnO microstructure via changing the nucleation mode into heterogeneous and thus transforming the polycrystalline films into a matrix of highly c-axis textured hexagonally faceted nanorods. Increase of the work function value from 4.45 to 4.75 eV was observed with Ag content increase, which is attributed to Ag behaviour as a donor impurity. It was observed, that near-band edge emission of ZnO NS was enhanced with Ag doping as a result of quenching deep-level emission. Upon high doping of ZnO by Ag it tends to promote the formation of basal plane stacking faults defect, as it was observed by HR TEM and PL study in the case of 10 wt.% of Ag. Based on the results obtained, it is suggested that NS deposition at lower temperatures (220-300 °C) is more favorable for p-type doping of ZnO.

  15. Improved diode performance of Ag nanoparticle dispersed Er doped In2O3 film

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ghosh, Anupam; Dwivedi, Shyam Murli Manohar Dhar; Chakrabartty, Shubhro; Mondal, Aniruddha

    2018-04-01

    Ag nanoparticle(NP) dispersedEr doped In2O3 film was prepared by sol-gel method followed by thermal evaporation cum glancing angle deposition technique. The Schottky contact based devicecontaining Ag NPs shows ideality factor of ˜180 at 10 K and ˜5 at 300 K, which is lesser as compared to the device that does not contain Ag NPs. The lower ideality factor value all over the temperature range makes the diode more reliable.

  16. Single-step solvothermal synthesis of mesoporous Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Arif Sher Shah, Md. Selim; Zhang, Kan; Park, A. Reum; Kim, Kwang Su; Park, Nam-Gyu; Park, Jong Hyeok; Yoo, Pil J.

    2013-05-01

    With growing interest in the photocatalytic performance of TiO2-graphene composite systems, the ternary phase of TiO2, graphene, and Ag is expected to exhibit improved photocatalytic characteristics because of the improved recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers and potential contribution of the generation of localized surface plasmon resonance at Ag sites on a surface of the TiO2-graphene binary matrix. In this work, Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. In a single-step synthetic procedure, the reduction of AgNO3 and graphene oxide and the hydrolysis of titanium tetraisopropoxide were spontaneously performed in a mixed solvent system of ethylene glycol, N,N-dimethylformamide and a stoichiometric amount of water without resorting to the use of typical reducing agents. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, along with different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques, enabling us to confirm the successful reduction of AgNO3 and graphite oxide to metallic Ag and reduced graphene oxide, respectively. Due to the highly facilitated electron transport of well distributed Ag nanoparticles, the synthesized ternary nanocomposite showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B dye under visible light irradiation.With growing interest in the photocatalytic performance of TiO2-graphene composite systems, the ternary phase of TiO2, graphene, and Ag is expected to exhibit improved photocatalytic characteristics because of the improved recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers and potential contribution of the generation of localized surface plasmon resonance at Ag sites on a surface of the TiO2-graphene binary matrix. In this work, Ag-TiO2-reduced graphene oxide ternary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. In a single-step synthetic procedure, the reduction

  17. Fig .1. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of Ag2Se-G-TiO2 composites.

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    32

    SEM images of Ag2Se-G nanocomposites, (c)TiO2 nanoparticles and (d) SEM images of Ag2Se-. G-TiO2 .... Although photo-catalytic conversion of CO2 using solar energy is the most convenient route for the ..... based structure of graphene, the unpaired π electron merges with the metal nanoparticles, causing a shift in the ...

  18. Synergetic scattering of SiO2 and Ag nanoparticles for light-trapping enhancement in organic bulk heterojunction

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Huan; Ding, Qiuyu; Li, Ben Q.; Jiang, Xinbing; Zhang, Manman

    2018-02-01

    Though noble metal nanoparticles have been explored to enhance the performance of the organic solar cell, effect of dielectric nanoparticles, and coupled effect of dielectric and metal nanoparticles, have rarely been reported, if at all, on organic solar cell. This work reports an experimental study on synergetic scattering of SiO2 and Ag nanoparticles in a bulk organic heterojunction for the broadband light absorption enhancement. The wavelength scale SiO2 particles were arranged as a monolayer on the surface of the solar cell to guide incident light into the active layer and prolong the effective optical length of the entered energy. This is achieved by the excitation of whispering gallery modes in SiO2 nanoparticles and by leaky mode radiation. When small size Ag particles were incorporated into the transport layer of the solar cell, synergetic scattering of SiO2 and Ag nanoparticles is formed by coupling of the whispering gallery mode of closely arranged SiO2 particles atop and collaborative localized surface plasma resonance scattering of Ag nanoparticles dispersed in the transport layer. As a result, the performance of the organic solar cell is greatly enhanced and the short-circuit current density has an improvement of 42.47%. Therefore, the organic solar cell incorporated with SiO2 and Ag particles presents a meaningful strategy to achieve high energy-harvesting performance. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

  19. Photocatalytic degradation of dairy effluent using AgTiO2 nanostructures/polyurethane nanofiber membrane

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Kanjwal, Muzafar Ahmad; Barakat, Nasser A.M.; Chronakis, Ioannis S.

    2015-01-01

    Dairy effluent (DE) is environmentally toxic and needs special attention. Photocatalytic degradation of DE was studied using novel polyurethane (PU)-based membranes. Typically, silver-titanium dioxide nanofibers (AgTiO2 NFs) and silver-titanium dioxide nanoparticles (AgTiO2 NPs) were individually...... incorporated in PU electrospun nanofibers to overcome the mandatory sophisticated separation of the nanocatalysts, which can create a secondary pollution, after the treatment process. These nanomembranes were characterized in SEM, TEM, XRD and UV studies. The polymeric electrospun nanofibers were smooth...

  20. H{sub 2} assisted NH{sub 3}-SCR over Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} for automotive applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fogel, S.

    2013-05-15

    The up-coming strict emission legislation demands new and improved catalysts for diesel vehicle deNO{sub x}. The demand for low-temperature activity is especially challenging. H{sub 2}-assisted NH{sub 3}-SCR over Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} has shown a very promising low-temperature activity and a combination of Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Fe-BEA can give a high NO{sub x} conversion in a broad temperature window without the need to dose H{sub 2} at higher temperatures. The aim of this study has been to investigate the combined Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Fe-BEA catalyst system both at laboratory-scale and in full-scale engine bench testing. The catalysts were combined both in a sequential dual-bed layout and a dual-layer layout where the catalysts were coated on top of each other. The Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalyst was also investigated with the aim of improving the sulphur tolerance and low-temperature activity by testing different alumina-supports. A large focus of this study has been the preparation of monolithic catalyst bricks for the catalyst testing. A high SBET and higher Ag loading gave a high sulphur tolerance and activity. It was believed that the high S{sub BET} is needed to give a higher NH{sub 3} adsorption capacity, necessary for the SCR reaction. A higher Ag loading gives more Ag sites and probably a favourable Ag dispersion. Testing with sulphur gave an increased activity of the catalysts. Testing of monolithic catalysts showed a similar activity enhancement after a few standard test cycles. A change in the dispersion or state of Ag can be possible reasons for the activation seen and the activation was believed to be related to Ag and not the alumina. Small-scale laboratory testing showed that it was preferred to have Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} either upstream or as the outer layer of Fe-BEA. This was attributed to complete NH{sub 3} oxidation over Fe-BEA giving a deficit of NH{sub 3} over the Ag/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} if it was placed downstream or as the inner layer

  1. Marketing de Relacionamento: como o webmarketing atrai clientes em agências do ramo turístico

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maria de Fátima Silva Oliveira

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available Este estudo tem o objetivo de analisar como o webmarketing, mais especificamente aplicado por meio dos websites, é usado por agências de viagens e turismo, como estratégia de Marketing de Relacionamento para atrair clientes. Para isto, foi realizada uma pesquisa de campo aplicada à população de agências de viagens que possuem websites, devidamente cadastradas na agência reguladora de turismo no estado da Paraíba (Pbtur. Das 194 empresas cadastradas nesse órgão, apenas 25 delas possuem websites – 3 (três destes sem funcionamento –, as quais foram pesquisadas com uso de um questionário estruturado. Foram utilizados 32 indicadores para medir as estratégias de Marketing usadas nos websites dessas agências, considerando as dimensões de comprometimento, confiança, contexto e comparação e avaliação de alternativas. As análises dos dados, empregando estatística descritiva e análise de conteúdo dos sites, demonstraram que as empresas utilizam os websites de forma insuficiente, já que não utilizam todos os recursos disponíveis por essa ferramenta, como por exemplo interação com clientes e espaço para sugestões. Estratégias como convite, cadastro, vídeos de roteiros, imagens de pacotes e descontos e ofertas estão entre as mais usadas, sendo adequadas para atração de clientes, desde que sejam corretamente utilizadas. Com base nos resultados analisados, sugere-se que haja uma melhoria do webmarketing.

  2. Photocatalytic activity of attapulgite-TiO2-Ag3PO4 ternary nanocomposite for degradation of Rhodamine B under simulated solar irradiation

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Hongcai; Jiang, Zhuolin; He, Zhaoling; Liu, Tao; Li, Enzhu; Li, Bao-Wen

    2018-01-01

    An excellent ternary composite photocatalyst consisting of silver orthophosphate (Ag3PO4), attapulgite (ATP), and TiO2 was synthesized, in which heterojunction was formed between dissimilar semiconductors to promote the separation of photo-generated charges. The ATP/TiO2/Ag3PO4 composite was characterized by SEM, XRD, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The co-deposition of Ag3PO4 and TiO2 nanoparticles onto the surface of ATP forms a lath-particle structure. Compared with composite photocatalysts consisting of two phases, ATP/TiO2/Ag3PO4 ternary composite exhibits greatly improved photocatalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B under simulated solar irradiation. Such ternary composite not only improves the stability of Ag3PO4, but also lowers the cost by reducing application amount of Ag3PO4, which provides guidance for the design of Ag3PO4- and Ag-based composites for photocatalytic applications.

  3. Synthesis and characterization of magnetically recyclable Ag nanoparticles immobilized on Fe3O4@C nanospheres with catalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Wei-hong; Yue, Xiu-ping; Guo, Chang-sheng; Lv, Jia-pei; Liu, Si-si; Zhang, Yuan; Xu, Jian

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag-loaded Fe 3 O 4 @C nanospheres were synthesized by a facile method. • The Fe 3 O 4 encapsulated mesoporous carbon was decorated with 10 nm Ag nanocrystals. • The as-prepared Ag-Fe 3 O 4 @C nanocomposite showed excellent catalytic activity. • The nanocomposite had convenient magnetic separability. - Abstract: A novel approach for the synthesis of Ag-loaded Fe 3 O 4 @C nanospheres (Ag-Fe 3 O 4 @C) was successfully developed. The catalysts possessed a carbon-coated magnetic core and grew active silver nanoparticles on the outer shell using hydrazine monohydrate as the AgNO 3 reductant in ethanol. The morphology, inner structure, and magnetic properties of the as-prepared composites were studied with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), fourier translation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) techniques. Catalytic activity was investigated by degrading rhodamine B (RhB) in the designed experiment. The obtained products were monodispersed and bifunctional with high magnetization, as well as exhibited excellent catalytic activity toward organic dye with 98% of RhB conversion within 20 min in the presence of NaBH 4 . The product also exhibited convenient magnetic separability and maintained high catalytic activity after six cycle runs

  4. Synthesis, Characterizations of Superparamagnetic Fe3O4-Ag Hybrid Nanoparticles and Their Application for Highly Effective Bacteria Inactivation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tung, Le Minh; Cong, Nguyen Xuan; Huy, Le Thanh; Lan, Nguyen Thi; Phan, Vu Ngoc; Hoa, Nguyen Quang; Vinh, Le Khanh; Thinh, Nguyen Viet; Tai, Le Thanh; Ngo, Duc-The; Mølhave, Kristian; Huy, Tran Quang; Le, Anh-Tuan

    2016-06-01

    In recent years, outbreaks of infectious diseases caused by pathogenic micro-organisms pose a serious threat to public health. In this work, Fe3O4-Ag hybrid nanoparticles were synthesized by simple chemistry method and these prepared nanoparticles were used to investigate their antibacterial properties and mechanism against methicilline-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pathogen. The formation of dimer-like nanostructure of Fe3O4-Ag hybrid NPs was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and High-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy. Our biological analysis revealed that the Fe3O4-Ag hybrid NPs showed more noticeable bactericidal activity than that of plain Fe3O4 NPs and Ag-NPs. We suggest that the enhancement in bactericidal activity of Fe3O4-Ag hybrid NPs might be likely from main factors such as: (i) enhanced surface area property of hybrid nanoparticles; (ii) the high catalytic activity of Ag-NPs with good dispersion and aggregation stability due to the iron oxide magnetic carrier, and (iii) large direct physical contacts between the bacterial cell membrane and the hybrid nanoparticles. The superparamagnetic hybrid nanoparticles of iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles decorated with silver nanoparticles can be a potential candidate to effectively treat infectious MRSA pathogen with recyclable capability, targeted bactericidal delivery and minimum release into environment.

  5. Photocatalytic activity of ZnO doped with Ag on the degradation of endocrine disrupting under UV irradiation and the investigation of its antibacterial activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bechambi, Olfa [Université de Tunis El Manar, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Laboratoire de Chimie des Matériaux et Catalyse, 2092, Tunis (Tunisia); Chalbi, Manel [Laboratoire de Bioprocédés Environnementaux, Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax, B.P. 1177, 3018 Sfax (Tunisia); Najjar, Wahiba, E-mail: najjarwahiba2014@gmail.com [Université de Tunis El Manar, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Laboratoire de Chimie des Matériaux et Catalyse, 2092, Tunis (Tunisia); Sayadi, Sami [Laboratoire de Bioprocédés Environnementaux, Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax, B.P. 1177, 3018 Sfax (Tunisia)

    2015-08-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • A series of Ag-doped ZnO were synthesized via hydrothermal method. • Effect of doping with silver on the textural, structural optical properties of ZnO. • The photocatalytic activity has been tested using bisphenol A and nonylphenol. • The highest degradation efficiency was obtained with 1% Ag. • Ag doping enhances the photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of ZnO. - Abstract: Ag-doped ZnO photocatalysts with different Ag molar content (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0%) were prepared via hydrothermal method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Nitrogen physisorption at 77 K, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–-Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence spectra (PL) and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the structural, textural and optical properties of the samples. The results showed that Ag-doping does not change the average crystallite size with the Ag low content (≤1.0%) but slightly decreases with Ag high content (>1.0%). The specific surface area (S{sub BET}) increases with the increase of the Ag content. The band gap values of ZnO are decreased with the increase of the Ag doping level. The results of the photocatalytic degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) and nonylphenol (NP) in aqueous solutions under UV irradiation and in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H{sub 2}O{sub 2}) showed that silver ions doping greatly improved the photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO. The TOC conversion BPA and NP are 72.1% and 81.08% respectively obtained using 1% Ag-doped ZnO. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the fact that the modification of ZnO with an appropriate amount of Ag can increase the separation efficiency of the photogenerated electrons-holes in ZnO. The antibacterial activity of the catalysts which uses Escherichia coli as a model for Gram-negative bacteria confirmed that Ag-doped ZnO possessed more antibacterial activity than the pure ZnO.

  6. Photocatalytic activity of ZnO doped with Ag on the degradation of endocrine disrupting under UV irradiation and the investigation of its antibacterial activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bechambi, Olfa; Chalbi, Manel; Najjar, Wahiba; Sayadi, Sami

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • A series of Ag-doped ZnO were synthesized via hydrothermal method. • Effect of doping with silver on the textural, structural optical properties of ZnO. • The photocatalytic activity has been tested using bisphenol A and nonylphenol. • The highest degradation efficiency was obtained with 1% Ag. • Ag doping enhances the photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of ZnO. - Abstract: Ag-doped ZnO photocatalysts with different Ag molar content (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0%) were prepared via hydrothermal method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Nitrogen physisorption at 77 K, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–-Visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence spectra (PL) and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the structural, textural and optical properties of the samples. The results showed that Ag-doping does not change the average crystallite size with the Ag low content (≤1.0%) but slightly decreases with Ag high content (>1.0%). The specific surface area (S BET ) increases with the increase of the Ag content. The band gap values of ZnO are decreased with the increase of the Ag doping level. The results of the photocatalytic degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) and nonylphenol (NP) in aqueous solutions under UV irradiation and in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) showed that silver ions doping greatly improved the photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO. The TOC conversion BPA and NP are 72.1% and 81.08% respectively obtained using 1% Ag-doped ZnO. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the fact that the modification of ZnO with an appropriate amount of Ag can increase the separation efficiency of the photogenerated electrons-holes in ZnO. The antibacterial activity of the catalysts which uses Escherichia coli as a model for Gram-negative bacteria confirmed that Ag-doped ZnO possessed more antibacterial activity than the pure ZnO

  7. Ag nanoparticle effects on the thermoluminescent properties of monoclinic ZrO2 exposed to ultraviolet and gamma radiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Villa-Sanchez, G; Mendoza-Anaya, D; Gutierrez-Wing, C; Perez-Hernandez, R; Gonzalez-MartInez, P R; Angeles-Chavez, C

    2007-01-01

    The goal of this work was to analyse ZrO 2 in the pure state and when doped with Ag nanoparticles, by electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and thermoluminescence methods. According to the results obtained, Ag nanoparticles did not modify the morphology or the crystalline structure of the ZrO 2 . The thermoluminescent (TL) response of pure ZrO 2 showed two peaks, one at 334 K and the other at 417 K, when it was exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and at 342 and 397 K when gamma radiation was used. For ZrO 2 impregnated with Ag nanoparticles a diminished TL intensity due to nanoparticle shielding was observed, but the glow curve shape was similar. However, when Ag nanoparticles were added during the ZrO 2 synthesis, a shift of the TL peaks towards higher temperature values with reference to pure ZrO 2 was observed. A linear dependence of the integrated TL signal as a function of the irradiation dose was observed in all analysed samples. It was possible to determine some kinetic parameters, such as activation energy, kinetic order and frequency factor, using the sequential quadratic programming glow curve deconvolution; it was found that these values are highly dependent on the type of radiation used. Ag nanoparticles present in ZrO 2 also modified the kinetic parameters, mainly when they were added during the synthesis of ZrO 2 . Our results reinforce the possibilities of using pure and doped ZrO 2 as an appropriate dosimetric material in radiation physics

  8. Nanoparticles of Pt and Ag supported in meso porous SiO{sub 2}: characterization and catalytic applications; Nanoparticulas de Pt y Ag soportadas en SiO{sub 2} mesoporosa: caracterizacion y aplicaciones cataliticas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Espinosa, M.E.; Perez H, R.; Perez A, M.; Mondragon G, G. [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Arenas A, J. [IFUNAM, A.P. 20-364, 01000 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

    2004-07-01

    The surface properties of catalysts of Pt and Ag supported in conventional SiO{sub 2} hey have been studied through reduction reactions of N{sub 2}O with H{sub 2} which is a sensitive reaction to the structure. In our case it was used a meso porous ceramic support of SiO{sub 2} of great surface area (1100 m{sup 2}/gr), where it is caused a high dispersion of the metallic nanoparticles of Pt and Ag, the total charge of the active phase in the meso porous support was of 3% in weight. The catalysts show a variation in the percentages of conversion of N{sub 2}O depending on the size and dispersion of the metallic phases. (Author)

  9. Ag-decorated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} core-shell nanospheres: Seed-mediated growth preparation and their antibacterial activity during the consecutive recycling

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Miaomiao; Wu, Wenjie [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Qiao, Ru, E-mail: qiaoru@zjnu.cn [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Tan, Linxiang [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Li, Zhengquan [Institute of Physical Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Zhang, Yong [College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004 (China); Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore 117575 (Singapore)

    2016-08-15

    We demonstrated a seed-mediated growth approach to synthesize Ag nanoparticles-decorated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} core-shell nanospheres without use of surface functionalization. The particle size and decoration density of the immobilized Ag nanoparticles on SiO{sub 2} surface were tunable by adjusting the added AgNO{sub 3} concentration and the alternating repetition times in seed-mediated growth procedure. The as-prepared Ag-decorated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} nanospheres exhibited excellent antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans, in which the minimum inhibitory concentration were 12.5 μg mL{sup −1}, 50 μg mL{sup −1} and 50 μg mL{sup −1}, respectively. It is speculated that their antibacterial activity is attributed to both the interaction of released Ag ions with the functional groups of vital enzymes and proteins and the strong oxidation of reactive oxygen species generated under the action of photoinduced electrons in Ag nanoparticles. Besides studying their antibacterial mechanism, we also investigated the variation of antibacterial activity of these heterostructured nanospheres during the consecutive magnetic separation and recycling. It shows that the magnetic antibacterial agent could be reused and its activity remained stable even after nine cycles, which enable it to be promisingly applied in biomedical areas. - Highlights: • Ag-decorated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}@SiO{sub 2} were synthesized via a seed-mediated growth method. • The core-shell heterostructures exhibited excellent antibacterial activity. • The activity was attributed to the effect of released Ag{sup +} with ROS oxidation. • The antibacterial agent was reused during magnetic separation and recycling.

  10. Aqueous phase hydrogenation of phenol catalyzed by Pd and PdAg on ZrO 2

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Resende, Karen A.; Hori, Carla E.; Noronha, Fabio B.; Shi, Hui; Gutierrez, Oliver Y.; Camaioni, Donald M.; Lercher, Johannes A.

    2017-11-01

    Hydrogenation of phenol in aqueous phase was studied over a series of ZrO2-supported Pd catalysts in order to explore the effects of particle size and of Ag addition on the activity of Pd. Kinetic assessments were performed in a batch reactor, on monometallic Pd/ZrO2 samples with different Pd loadings (0.5%, 1% and 2%), as well as on a 1% PdAg/ZrO2 sample. The turnover frequency (TOF) increases with the Pd particle size. The reaction orders in phenol and H2 indicate that the surface coverages by phenol, H2 and their derived intermediates are higher on 0.5% Pd/ZrO2 than on other samples. The activation energy was the lowest on the least active sample (0.5% Pd/ZrO2), while being identical on 1% and 2% Pd/ZrO2 catalysts. Thus, the significantly lower activity of the small Pd particles (1-2 nm on average) in 0.5%Pd/ZrO2 is explained by the unfavorable activation entropies for the strongly bound species. The presence of Ag increases considerably the TOF of the reaction by decreasing the Ea and increasing the coverages of phenol and H2.

  11. The CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} photocatalyst with stability and high photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Song, Yanhua [School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003 (China); Zhao, Haozhu; Chen, Zhigang; Huang, Liying; Xu, Hui; Li, Huaming [School of the Environment, Institute for Energy Research, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013 (China); Wang, Weiren [Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas, 77005 (United States)

    2016-09-15

    The CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} composite photocatalysts are synthesized by an in situ precipitation method. The XRD, FT-IR, XPS, TEM, EDS, and DRS are used to characterize the structure of the samples. The photocatalytic performance of the prepared samples is evaluated by the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RhB), and ciprofloxacin (CIP). The results show that CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} hybrid materials exhibit much higher photocatalytic activity than the Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} alone. The optimal CeO{sub 2} content in CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} composites is found to be molar ratio 1 wt%. Photocurrent response of CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} (1 wt%) is about 1.5 times as high as that of the pure Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. The increase of photocatalytic activity of CeO{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} composites could be mainly attributed to the heterojunction between CeO{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. The trapping experiment has demonstrated that holes serve as the main active species for the degradation of MB under visible light irradiation. A photocatalytic mechanism is also proposed. (copyright 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  12. Reduced graphene oxide enwrapped pinecone-liked Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2} composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability under visible light

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ma, Ni; Qiu, Yiwei; Zhang, Yichao; Liu, Hanyang; Yang, Yana; Wang, Jingwei; Li, Xiaoyun; Cui, Can, E-mail: cancui@zstu.edu.cn

    2015-11-05

    Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} possesses high photocatalytic activity under visible light, but its application is limited by photogenerated charges recombination, photocorrosion as well as consumption of noble Ag. It is of great interesting to develop new Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}-based photocatalysts with high charges separation efficiency, good stability and low content of Ag. In this paper, we report a novel Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/reduced graphene oxide (Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO) photocatalyst. It exhibits advantages on both the microstructure and the charges separation. The microstructure shows that TiO{sub 2} spheres of hundreds of nanometers in size are decorated with dense nano-sized Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} to form pinecone-liked particles, which are enwrapped by rGO sheets. This novel structure effectively prevents aggregation of nano-sized Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}, which not only suppresses the charges recombination in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} but also significantly reduces the content of Ag. Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO also favors separation of photogenerated charges owing to its two pathways for charges transportation, i.e., the electrons in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} can be transferred to rGO, while the holes in Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} can be transferred to TiO{sub 2}. The dual-pathway for charges separation as well as the pinecone-liked Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2} microstructure ultimately leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO. The photocatalytic performance varies with different contents of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} in the composites, because low content of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} induces weak light absorption while excess Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} results in serious charges recombination due to the aggregation of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} nanoparticles. In this work, Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/TiO{sub 2}/rGO with weight ratio of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} against TiO{sub 2}/rGO equals to 0.6 exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. The percentage of Ag in

  13. 120 MeV Ag ion induced effects in Au/HfO2/Si MOSCAPs

    Science.gov (United States)

    Manikanthababu, N.; Prajna, K.; Pathak, A. P.; Rao, S. V. S. Nageswara

    2018-05-01

    HfO2/Si thinfilms were deposited by RF sputtering technique. 120 MeV Ag ion irradiation has been used to study the electrical properties of Au/HfO2/Si MOSCAPs. SHI (120 MeV Ag) induced annealing, defects creation and intermixing effects on the electrical properties of these systems have been studied. Here, we have observed that the high electronic excitation can cause a significant reduction of leakage currents in these MOSCAP devices. Various quantum mechanical tunneling phenomenon has been observed from the I-V characteristics.

  14. Rational construction of Z-scheme Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Luo, Jin; Zhou, Xiaosong; Ma, Lin; Xu, Xuyao

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Novel visible-light driven Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites were synthesized. • Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 exhibited enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The reasons for the enhanced photocatalytic activity were revealed. - Abstract: Novel visible-light driven Z-scheme Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites with different contents of Ag_2CrO_4 were fabricated by a facile chemical precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical measurements. Compared with individual g-C_3N_4 and Ag_2CrO_4, the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites displayed much larger photocatalytic activities for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) solution at room temperature under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). Importantly, the optimum photodegradation rate constant of the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composite at a theoretical weight content of 8.0% Ag_2CrO_4 for the photodegradation of MO was 0.0068 min"−"1, which was 5.7 and 4.3 times higher than that of pure g-C_3N_4 and Ag_2CrO_4, respectively. Such enormous enhancement in photocatalytic performance was predominantly ascribed to the efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes at the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 interface imparted through the Z-scheme electron transfer. Furthermore, radical trap experiments depicted that both the holes and superoxide radical anions were thought to dominate oxidative species of the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composite for MO degradation under visible light irradiation. Ultimately, a tentative Z-scheme photodegradation mechanism was proposed. This work may be useful for the rational design of new types of Z-scheme photocatalysts and provide some illuminate insights into the Z-scheme transfer mechanism for application in energy

  15. Optical absorption properties of Ag/SiO sub 2 composite films induced by gamma irradiation

    CERN Document Server

    Pan, A L; Yang, Z P; Liu, F X; Ding, Z J; Qian, Y T

    2003-01-01

    Mesoporous SiO sub 2 composite films with small Ag particles or clusters dispersed in them were prepared by a new method: first the matrix SiO sub 2 films were prepared by the sol-gel process combined with the dip-coating technique; then they were soaked in AgNO sub 3 solutions; this was followed by irradiation with gamma-rays at room temperature and ambient pressure. The structure of these films was examined by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and their optical absorption spectra were examined. It has been shown that the Ag particles grown within the porous SiO sub 2 films are very small and are highly dispersed. On increasing the soaking concentration and subjecting the samples to an additional annealing, a different peak-shift effect for the surface plasmon resonance was observed in the optical absorption measurement. Possible mechanisms of this behaviour are discussed in this paper.

  16. Ag/α-Fe2O3 hollow microspheres: Preparation and application for hydrogen peroxide detection

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kang, Xinyuan; Wu, Zhiping; Liao, Fang; Zhang, Tingting; Guo, Tingting

    2015-01-01

    In this paper, we demonstrated a simple approach for preparing α-Fe 2 O 3 hollow spheres by mixing ferric nitrate aqueous and glucose in 180 °C. The glucose was found to act as a soft template in the process of α-Fe 2 O 3 hollow spheres formation. Ag/α-Fe 2 O 3 hollow nanocomposite was obtained under UV irradiation without additional reducing agents or initiators. Synthesized Ag/α-Fe 2 O 3 hollow composites exhibited remarkable catalytic performance toward H 2 O 2 reduction. The electrocatalytic activity mechanism of Ag/α-Fe 2 O 3 /GCE were discussed toward the reduction of H 2 O 2 in this paper. - Graphical abstract: Glucose is carbonized as carbon balls in the 180 °C hydrothermal carbonization process, which plays a role of a soft template. Carbon spherical shell is rich in many hydroxyls, which have good hydrophilicity and surface reactivity. When Fe(NO 3 ) 3 is added to the aqueous solution of Glucose, the hydrophilic -OH will adsorb Fe 3+ to form coordination compound by coordination bond. α-FeOOH is formed on the surface of carbon balls by hydrothermal reaction. After calcination at 500 °C, carbon spheres react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide, which disappears in the air. Meanwhile α-FeOOH is calcined to form α-Fe 2 O 3 hollow spheres.

  17. Ab initio transmission electron microscopy image simulations of coherent Ag-MgO interfaces

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mogck, S.; Kooi, B.J.; Hosson, J.Th.M. de; Finnis, M.W.

    2004-01-01

    Density-functional theory calculations, within the plane-wave-ultrasoft pseudopotential framework, were performed in the projection for MgO and for the coherent (111) Ag-MgO polar interface. First-principles calculations were incorporated in high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) simulations by converting the charge density into electron scattering factors to examine the influence of charge transfer, charge redistribution at the interface, and ionicity on the dynamical electron scattering and on calculated HRTEM images. It is concluded that the ionicity of oxides and the charge redistribution at interfaces play a significant role in HRTEM image simulations. In particular, the calculations show that at oxygen-terminated (111) Ag-MgO interfaces the first oxygen layer at the interface is much brighter than that in calculations with neutral atoms, in agreement with experimental observations

  18. Fabrication of porous silicon nanowires by MACE method in HF/H2O2/AgNO3 system at room temperature

    Science.gov (United States)

    2014-01-01

    In this paper, the moderately and lightly doped porous silicon nanowires (PSiNWs) were fabricated by the ‘one-pot procedure’ metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) method in the HF/H2O2/AgNO3 system at room temperature. The effects of H2O2 concentration on the nanostructure of silicon nanowires (SiNWs) were investigated. The experimental results indicate that porous structure can be introduced by the addition of H2O2 and the pore structure could be controlled by adjusting the concentration of H2O2. The H2O2 species replaces Ag+ as the oxidant and the Ag nanoparticles work as catalyst during the etching. And the concentration of H2O2 influences the nucleation and motility of Ag particles, which leads to formation of different porous structure within the nanowires. A mechanism based on the lateral etching which is catalyzed by Ag particles under the motivation by H2O2 reduction is proposed to explain the PSiNWs formation. PMID:24910568

  19. Fabrication of uniformly dispersed Ag nanoparticles loaded TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays for enhancing photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performances under visible light irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yi, Junhui; Zhang, Shengsen; Wang, Hongjuan; Yu, Hao; Peng, Feng, E-mail: cefpeng@scut.edu.cn

    2014-12-15

    Graphical abstract: Uniformly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully loaded on both the outer and inner surface of the TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (NTs) through a simple polyol method, which exhibited the enhanced photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performances under visible-light irradiation due to the more effective separation of photo-generated electron–hole pairs and faster interfacial charge transfer. - Highlights: • Highly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are successfully prepared by polyol method. • Ag NPs are uniformly loaded on the surface of the TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (NTs). • Ag/TiO{sub 2}-NTs exhibit the enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible-light. • The enhanced photocurrent is explained by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. - Abstract: Uniformly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully loaded on both the outer and inner surface of the TiO{sub 2} nanotube arrays (NTs) through a simple polyol method. The as-prepared Ag/TiO{sub 2}-NTs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV–vis diffusion reflectance spectroscopy. Photoelectrochemical behaviors were investigated via photocurrent response and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Photocatalytic activity of Ag/TiO{sub 2}-NTs was evaluated by degradation of acid orange II under visible light irradiation. The results showed that photocatalytic efficiency of Ag/TiO{sub 2}-NTs is more than 5 times higher than that of pure TiO{sub 2} NTs. Comparing with the electrochemical deposition method, the photocatalytic activity of Ag/TiO{sub 2}-NTs prepared by polyol method has been obviously increased.

  20. Solvothermal preparation of ZnO nanorods as anode material for improved cycle life Zn/AgO batteries.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shafiq Ullah

    Full Text Available Nano materials with high surface area increase the kinetics and extent of the redox reactions, thus resulting in high power and energy densities. In this study high surface area zinc oxide nanorods have been synthesized by surfactant free ethylene glycol assisted solvothermal method. The nanorods thus prepared have diameters in the submicron range (300 ~ 500 nm with high aspect ratio. They have uniform geometry and well aligned direction. These nanorods are characterized by XRD, SEM, Specific Surface Area Analysis, solubility in alkaline medium, EDX analysis and galvanostatic charge/discharge studies in Zn/AgO batteries. The prepared zinc oxide nanorods have low solubility in alkaline medium with higher structural stability, which imparts the improved cycle life stability to Zn/AgO cells.

  1. Enhanced performance of flexible dye-sensitized solar cells using flexible Ag@ZrO2/C nanofiber film as low-cost counter electrode

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yin, Xin; Xie, Xueyao; Song, Lixin; Zhai, Jifeng; Du, Pingfan; Xiong, Jie

    2018-05-01

    Highly flexible ZrO2/C nanofibers (NFs) coated with Ag nanoparticles (NPs) have been fabricated by a combination of electrospinning, carbonization and hydrothermal treatment. The obtained Ag@ZrO2/C NFs serve as low-cost counter electrodes (CEs) for flexible dye-sensitized solar cells (FDSSCs). A considerable power conversion efficiency of 4.77% is achieved, which is 27.9% higher than the η of ZrO2/C NFs CEs (3.73%) and reaches about 90% of that of Pt CE (5.26%). It can be ascribed to the fact that the introduction of Ag NPs provides a large number of accessible reaction sites for electrolyte ions to rapidly participate in the I3-/I- reaction. Moreover, the Ag NPs can produce synergistic effect with ZrO2/C NFs to further enhance transport capacity and electro-catalytic activity of the Ag@ZrO2/C film. Therefore, the considerable performance together with characteristics of simple preparation, low cost and flexibility suggests the Ag@ZrO2/C film can be promising candidate for the future generation of FDSSC.

  2. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) from Ag-doped Li{sub 2}B{sub 4}O{sub 7} crystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kananen, B.E.; Maniego, E.S.; Golden, E.M.; Giles, N.C.; McClory, J.W. [Department of Engineering Physics, Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433 (United States); Adamiv, V.T.; Burak, Ya.V. [Vlokh Institute of Physical Optics, Dragomanov 23, L’viv 79005 (Ukraine); Halliburton, L.E., E-mail: Larry.Halliburton@mail.wvu.edu [Department of Physics and Astronomy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506 (United States)

    2016-09-15

    Optically stimulated luminescence (CW-OSL) is observed from Ag-doped lithium tetraborate (Li{sub 2}B{sub 4}O{sub 7}) crystals. Photoluminescence, optical absorption, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) are used to identify the defects participating in the OSL process. As-grown crystals have Ag{sup +} ions substituting for Li{sup +} ions. They also have Ag{sup +} ions occupying interstitial sites. During a room-temperature exposure to ionizing radiation, holes are trapped at the Ag{sup +} ions that replace Li{sup +} ions and electrons are trapped at the interstitial Ag{sup +} ions, i.e., the radiation forms Ag{sup 2+} (4d{sup 9}) ions and Ag{sup 0} (4d{sup 10}5s{sup 1}) atoms. These Ag{sup 2+} and Ag{sup 0} centers have characteristic EPR spectra. The Ag{sup 0} centers also have a broad optical absorption band peaking near 370 nm. An OSL response is observed when the stimulation wavelength overlaps this absorption band. Specifically, stimulation with 400 nm light produces an intense OSL response when emission is monitored near 270 nm. Electrons optically released from the Ag{sup 0} centers recombine with holes trapped at Ag{sup 2+} ions to produce the ultraviolet emission. The OSL response is progressively smaller as the stimulation light is moved to longer wavelengths (i.e., away from the 370 nm peak of the absorption band of the Ag{sup 0} electron traps). Oxygen vacancies are also present in the Ag-doped Li{sub 2}B{sub 4}O{sub 7} crystals, and their role in the OSL process as a secondary relatively short-lived electron trap is described.

  3. Preparation of sensitive and recyclable porous Ag/TiO{sub 2} composite films for SERS detection

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhang, Zhengyi; Yu, Jiajie; Yang, Jingying; Lv, Xiang; Wang, Tianhe, E-mail: thwang56@126.com

    2015-12-30

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • A new but simple method of fabricating robust TiO{sub 2} films on glass. • AgNPs were deposited on the surface of TiO{sub 2} films with the assistance of UV irradiation. • Substrates with high SERS sensitivity and excellent recyclability. - Abstract: Porous Ag/TiO{sub 2} composite films were prepared by spin coating of titania on normal glass slides and subsequent photochemical deposition of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The films were characterized by XRD and FESEM to reveal micro structural and morphological differences between films obtained under varied conditions. The SERS properties of these films were investigated using aqueous crystal violet (CV) as probe molecules. The results indicate that the content of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and photo-reduction time had significant influences on both the microstructure and SERS performance of Ag/TiO{sub 2} films. The highest SERS sensitivity that allowed as low as 10{sup −10} M aqueous CV to be detected, was achieved with the PEG/(C{sub 4}H{sub 9}O){sub 4}Ti molar ratio being 0.08% and with 30 min of UV irradiation. With this film a linear relationship was established through experiment between SERS intensity and CV concentration from 10{sup −10} to 10{sup −5} M, which could be used as a calibration curve for CV concentration measurement. In addition, the film could be reused as a SERS substrate for up to four times without significantly losing SERS sensitivity if a simple regeneration was followed. It is visualized that the Ag/TiO{sub 2} film on glass has potentials for being developed into a practical SERS substrate with high sensitivity and good reusability.

  4. Reduced graphene oxide and Ag wrapped TiO2 photocatalyst for enhanced visible light photocatalysis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Leong, Kah Hon; Sim, Lan Ching; Jang, Min; Ibrahim, Shaliza; Bahnemann, Detlef; Saravanan, Pichiah

    2015-01-01

    A well-organised reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and silver (Ag) wrapped TiO 2 nano-hybrid was successfully achieved through a facile and easy route. The inherent characteristics of the synthesized RGO-Ag/TiO 2 were revealed through crystalline phase, morphology, chemical composition, Raman scattering, UV-visible absorption, and photoluminescence analyses. The adopted synthesis route significantly controlled the uniform formation of silver nanoparticles and contributed for the absorption of light in the visible spectrum through localized surface plasmon resonance effects. The wrapped RGO nanosheets triggered the electron mobility and promoted visible light shift towards red spectrum. The accomplishment of synergised effect of RGO and Ag well degraded Bisphenol A under visible light irradiation with a removal efficiency of 61.9%

  5. Sunlight impelled photocatalytic pursuance of Ag-TiO2-SGO and Pt-TiO2-SGO ternary nanocomposites on rhodamine B degradation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Alamelu, K.; Ali, B. M. Jaffar

    2018-04-01

    We demonstrate a hydrothermal method combined with polyol reduction process for the synthesis of an Ag-TiO2-SGO and Pt-TiO2-SGO ternary nanocomposites in which the Ag, Pt and TiO2 nanoparticles are dispersed on the Sulfonated graphene oxide nanosheets. The structural and optical properties of obtained nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, UV-DRS, Raman, FTIR and Photoluminescence spectroscopy. The nanocomposites shows increased light absorption ability in the visible region due to surface plasmon resonance effect of noble metal. The rate of electron-hole pair recombination was significating reduced for nanocomposites system compare to pure. Also, their Performance for the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B as a model organic pollutant is explored. The results showed that Ag-TiO2-SGO and Pt-TiO2-SGO nanocomposites could degrade 95% of the dye within 90 min, under natural sunlight irradiation. The reaction kinetics of ternary nanocomposites exhibit more than 2.2 fold increased photocatalytic activity compared to pristine TiO2. Sulfonated graphene based ternary photocatalyst are potential candidates for wastewater treatment in real time application, due to this ability degrade cationic and anionic dyes.

  6. Synthesis and Characterization of Highly Sensitive Hydrogen (H2 Sensing Device Based on Ag Doped SnO2 Nanospheres

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Zhaorui Lu

    2018-03-01

    Full Text Available In this paper, pure and Ag-doped SnO2 nanospheres were synthesized by hydrothermal method and characterized via X-ray powder diffraction (XRD, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS, and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS, respectively. The gas sensing performance of the pure, 1 at.%, 3 at.%, and 5 at.% Ag-doped SnO2 sensing devices toward hydrogen (H2 were systematically evaluated. The results indicated that compared with pure SnO2 nanospheres, Ag-doped SnO2 nanospheres could not only decrease the optimum working temperature but also significantly improve H2 sensing such as higher gas response and faster response-recovery. Among all the samples, the 3 at.% Ag-doped SnO2 showed the highest response 39 to 100 μL/L H2 at 300 °C. Moreover, its gas sensing mechanism was discussed, and the results will provide reference and theoretical guidance for the development of high-performance SnO2-based H2 sensing devices.

  7. CuO and Ag2O/CuO Catalyzed Oxidation of Aldehydes to the Corresponding Carboxylic Acids by Molecular Oxygen

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yaowu Sha

    2008-04-01

    Full Text Available Furfural was oxidized to furoic acid by molecular oxygen under catalysis by 150nm-sized Ag2O/CuO (92% or simply CuO (86.6%. When 30 nm-size catalyst was used,the main product was a furfural Diels-Alder adduct. Detailed reaction conditions andregeneration of catalysts were investigated. Under optimal conditions, a series of aromaticand aliphatic aldehydes were oxidized to the corresponding acids in good yields.

  8. Ultra-fine structures of Pd-Ag-HAp nanoparticle deposition on protruded TiO2 barrier layer for dental implant

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jang, Jae-Myung; Kim, Seung-Dai; Park, Tae-Eon; Choe, Han-Cheol

    2018-02-01

    The biocompatibility structure of an implant surface is of great importance to the formation of new bone tissue around the dental implant and also has a significant chemical reaction in the osseointegration process. Thus, ultra-fine Pd-Ag-HAp nanoparticles have been electrodeposited on protruded TiO2 barrier layer in mixed electrolyte solutions. Unusual protrusions patterns, which are assigned to Pd-Ag-HAp nanoparticles, can be clearly differentiated from a TiO2 nanotube oxide layer formed by an anodizing process. In the chemical bonding state, the surface characteristics of Pd/Ag/HAp compounds have been investigated by FE-SEM, EDS mapping analysis, and XPS analysis. The mapping dots of the elements including Ti, Ca, Pd, Ag, and P showed a homogeneous distribution throughout the entire surface when deposited onto the protruded TiO2 barrier layer. The XPS spectra of Ti-2p, O-1S, Pd-3d, and Ag-3d have been investigated, with the major XPS peak indicating Pd-3d. The Ag-3d level was clearly observed with further scanning of the Ca-2p region. Based on the results of the chemical states, the structural properties of the protrusion patterns were also examined after being deposited onto the barrier oxide film, resulting in the representative protrusion patterns being mainly composed of Pd-Ag-HAp compounds. The results of the soaking evaluation showed that the protrusion patterns and the protruded TiO2 barrier layer were all effective in regards to biocompatibility.

  9. Synthesis of a ternary Ag/RGO/ZnO nanocomposite via microwave irradiation and its application for the degradation of Rhodamine B under visible light.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Surendran, Divya Kollikkara; Xavier, Marilyn Mary; Viswanathan, Vandana Parakkal; Mathew, Suresh

    2017-06-01

    Reduced graphene oxide supporting plasmonic photocatalyst (Ag) on ZnO has been synthesized via a facile two-step microwave synthesis using RGO/ZnO and AgNO 3 . First step involves fabrication of RGO/ZnO via microwave irradiation. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Ag/RGO/ZnO shows enhanced photoactivity under visible light for the degradation of Rhodamine B. Enhanced charge separation and migration have been assigned using UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra, photoluminescence spectra, electrochemical impedance spectra, and TCSPC analysis. The improved photoactivity of Ag/RGO/ZnO can be ascribed to the prolonged lifetime of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and effective interfacial hybridization between RGO and Ag with ZnO nanoparticles. Ag nanoparticles can absorb visible light via surface plasmon resonance to enhance photocatalytic activity.

  10. Crystal structure of (μ5-decahydro-closo-decaborato) (μ2-O-dimethylformamide)disilver(I) [Ag2(B10H10)(DMF)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Polyakova, I. N.; Malinina, E. A.; Drozdova, V. V.; Kuznetsov, N. T.

    2008-01-01

    The compound [Ag 2 (B 10 H 10 )(DMF)] is synthesized, and its crystal structure is studied (R = 0.0699 for 2836 observed reflections). The coordination number of each of the four independent Ag atoms is 4 + 2. The nearest environment of the Ag(1) and Ag(4) atoms consists of two O atoms of the DMF molecules and two BH groups, and that of the Ag(2) and Ag(3) atoms consists of four BH groups. All the Ag atoms additionally form weak bonds with two BH groups. The Ag-O and Ag-B bonds lie in the ranges 2.319-2.465(9) and 2.46-2.70(1) A, respectively, and the Ag-B distances are 2.89-3.25(1) A. Due to the binding of each polyhedral anion to five Ag atoms, layers are formed. Bridging DMF molecules link layers into the three-dimensional framework

  11. Investigation of the influence on residual stresses of porosity in high temperature ZrO2 coatings on Ag tape for magnet technologies

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Arman, Yusuf; Aktas, Mehmet; Celik, Erdal; Mutlu, Ibrahim H.; Sayman, Onur

    2007-01-01

    The present paper reports on the effect on residual stresses of porosity in high temperature ZrO 2 coatings on Ag tape for magnet technologies. ZrO 2 coatings were fabricated on Ag tape substrate using a reel-to-reel sol-gel system. The microstructural evolution of high temperature ZrO 2 coatings was investigated by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). SEM observations revealed that ZrO 2 coatings with crack had some porosity and mosaic structure. Stress analysis was carried out on ZrO 2 coatings with porosity on Ag tape substrates under cryogenic conditions by using classical lamination theory (CLT) for elastic solution and finite element method (FEM) for elasto-plastic solution in the temperature range of 0 o C to -223 o C in liquid helium media. Because of the static equilibrium, tensile force is applied to the Ag substrate, by ZrO 2 coating. The stress component (σ x ) values change rapidly at coating-substrate interface owing to the different moduli of elasticity and thermal expansion coefficient. In spite of the thickness of Ag substrate, the stress components vary from tensile to compressive. In addition, along the thickness of ZrO 2 coating and Ag substrate system, the stress distribution changes linearly. FEM results demonstrate that the failure does not occur in ZrO 2 coating for all porosities due to its high yield strength

  12. Red light emitting nano-PVP fibers that hybrid with Ag@SiO2@Eu(tta)3phen-NPs by electrostatic spinning method

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Xiaolin; Tang, Jianguo; Li, Haidong; Wang, Yao; Wang, Xinzhi; Wang, Yanxin; Huang, Linjun; Belfiore, Laurence A.

    2018-04-01

    This work demonstrated red light emitting nano-PVP fibers that incorporated with novel three-layer nanostructure of Ag@SiO2@Eu(tta)3phen nanoparticles (Ag@SiO2@Eu(tta)3phen-NPs), and the hybrid nano-PVP fibers were fabricated via a remarkably simple electrostatic spinning method. For Ag@SiO2@Eu(tta)3phen-NPs, the thickness of SiO2 is optimized to obtain the maximum luminescent intensity, as results, the optimized thickness of SiO2 is 20 nm. And the corresponding luminescent intensity (612 nm) of the Ag@SiO2@Eu(tta)3phen-NPs is enhanced up to 10 times compared with the pure Eu(tta)3phen complex, which indicates that with 20 nm SiO2 thickness, the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of Ag@SiO2 exhibits highest performance for enhancing luminescence. Moreover, the luminescent PVP fibers emit bright red light under the fluorescence microscope, which definitely confirms that the microenvironment provided by PVP polymer is absolutely suitable for the fluorescent composites.

  13. Enhanced reactivity and related optical changes of Ag nanoparticles on amorphous Al2O3 supports

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Peláez, R J; Castelo, A; Afonso, C N; Borrás, A; Espinós, J P; Riedel, S; Leiderer, P; Boneberg, J

    2013-01-01

    Pairs of samples containing Ag nanoparticles (NPs) of different dimensions have been produced under the same conditions but on different substrates, namely standard glass slides and a thin layer of amorphous aluminum oxide (a-Al 2 O 3 ) on-glass. Upon storage in ambient conditions (air and room temperature) the color of samples changed and a blue-shift and damping of the surface plasmon resonance was observed. The changes are weaker for the samples on-glass and tend to saturate after 12 months. In contrast, the changes for the samples on a-Al 2 O 3 appear to be still progressing after 25 months. While x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows a slight sulfurization and negligible oxidation of the Ag for the on-glass samples upon 25 months aging, it shows that Ag is strongly oxidized for the on a-Al 2 O 3 samples and sulfurization is negligible. Both optical and chemical results are consistent with the production of a shell at the expense of a reduction of the metal core dimensions, the latter being responsible for the blue-shift and related to the small ( 2 O 3 supports goes along with specific morphological changes of the Ag NPs and the observation of nitrogen. (paper)

  14. Synthesis and properties of Ag/ZnO/g-C3N4 ternary micro/nano composites by microwave-assisted method

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Zijie; Li, Xuexue; Chen, Haitao; Shao, Gang; Zhang, Rui; Lu, Hongxia

    2018-01-01

    Ag/ZnO/g-C3N4 ternary micro/nanocomposites, as novel visible-light-driven photocatalysts, were prepared by a simple and convenient microwave-assisted method. The resulting ternary structure micro/nano composites were characterized by x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and infrared radiation techniques to examine its phase structure, valence state, morphological, thermal and optical properties. Well crystallized Ag/ZnO/g-C3N4 ternary micro/nano composites were synthesized under microwave-radiation for 15 min with the output of 240 W. Further experiments indicated Ag(5.0mol%)/ZnO/g-C3N4 photocatalyst in degradation of methylene blue exhibited an outstanding photocatalytic activity and its reaction rate constant (k, 0.0084 min-1) is 7.5, 2.4 2.9 and 3.5 times higher than that of monolithic ZnO (k, 0.0011 min-1), ZnO/g-C3N4(k, 0.0035 min-1), Ag(5 mol%)/ZnO(k, 0.0029 min-1) and Ag(5mol%)/g-C3N4 (k, 0.0024 min-1) respectively. Finally, a possible photocatalytic mechanism of Ag/ZnO/g-C3N4 photocatalyst in degradation process was proposed. This work provides a feasible strategy to synthesize an efficient ZnO-based photocatalyst which combines structure and properties of different dimensional components and made this ternary system an exciting candidate for sunlight-driven photocatalytic water treatment.

  15. Growth and characterization of Ag/n-ZnO/p-Si/Al heterojunction diode by sol–gel spin technique

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Keskenler, E.F.; Tomakin, M.; Doğan, S.; Turgut, G.; Aydın, S.; Duman, S.; Gürbulak, B.

    2013-01-01

    Highlights: ► Ag/n-ZnO/p-Si/Al heterojunction diode was grown via sol–gel technique. ► The characterization of ZnO material was investigated. ► The heterojunction structure showed a rectification behavior. ► Ideality factor and barrier height were found to be 2.03 and 0.71 eV, respectively. - Abstract: Polycrystalline ZnO thin film was obtained on the p-Si for the heterojunction diode fabrication by sol–gel method. X-ray diffraction study showed that the texture of the film is hexagonal with a strong (0 0 2) preferred direction. Scanning electron microscope image of ZnO showed that the obtained ZnO thin films had more porous character. High purity vacuum evaporated silver (Ag) and aluminum (Al) metals were used to make Ohmic contacts to the n-ZnO/p-Si heterojunction structure. The electrical properties of Ag/n-ZnO/p-Si/Al diode were investigated by using current–voltage measurements. Ag/n-ZnO/p-Si/Al heterojunction diode showed a rectification behavior, and its ideality factor and barrier height values were found to be 2.03 and 0.71 eV by applying a thermionic emission theory, respectively. The values of series resistance from dV/d (ln I) versus I and H(I) versus I curves were found to be 42.1 and 198.3 Ω, respectively.

  16. The effect of Ag doping on superconducting properties of the Bi-Pb-Sr-Ca-Cu-O tape fabricated by an Ag sheath

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Oota, A.; Horio, T.; Ohba, K.; Iwasaki, K.

    1992-01-01

    The powder-in-tube method using an Ag sheath is applied to achieve high current capacity in the tapes of Bi-Pb-Sr-Ca-Cu-O (BPSCCO) with the high-T c phase (T c =110 K), by a combination process of cold working and sintering. Two kinds of the BPSCCO powder with and without Ag doping are used as the materials for tape fabrication. The morphology, structure, and critical current density J c are investigated on the tapes by x-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscope, magnetic susceptibility, and I-V curves. The optimum sintering conditions to obtain a maximum in the value of J c at 77 K and 0 T are presented in the Ag-doped tapes and the nondoped ones. An improvement in the J c vs B properties up to 1 T at 77 K is presented in the BPSCCO tape by Ag doping. The Ag doping causes neither change in the value of T c (=110 K) nor decomposition of the high-T c phase

  17. Synthesis and characterization of highly efficient and stable Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt ternary hybrid structure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Deng, Jiatao; Liu, Lin; Niu, Tongjun; Sun, Xiaosong, E-mail: sunxs@scu.edu.cn

    2017-05-01

    Highlights: • Visible-light-driven Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt photocatalysts were prepared. • Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt showed highly efficient and stable photocatalystic activity. • The photocatalytic mechanism of Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt composite was given. - Abstract: Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} is an excellent photocatalyst with high efficiency and quantum yield, but suffers from the fast recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and photo-corrosion. Hereby, the highly efficient and stable visible-light-driven Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt photocatalyst were prepared via a three-step wet chemical approach. The as-prepared Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, US-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectra and transient photocurrent as well. Comparing with single Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11} or Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}, the prepared Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt composite exhibited much higher photocatalytic activity and stability for the degradation of Rhodamine B under visible light irradiation (>420 nm). The enhanced photocatalytic performance of Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}/Pt composite has been attributed to the efficient separation of photo-generated electron-hole pairs through a scheme system composed of Pr{sub 6}O{sub 11,} Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} and Pt.

  18. Impact of Ag and Al2O3 nanoparticles on soil organisms: In vitro and soil experiments

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fajardo, C.; Saccà, M.L.; Costa, G.; Nande, M.; Martin, M.

    2014-01-01

    In vitro analyses were conducted to assess the impact of Al 2 O 3 and Ag nanoparticles on two common soil bacteria, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas stutzeri. Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles did not show significant toxicity at any dose or time assayed, whereas exposure to 5 mg L −1 Ag nanoparticles for 48 h caused bactericidal effects. Moreover, alterations at the morphological level were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM); Ag but not Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles evoked the entrance of B. cereus cells in an early sporulation stage and both nanoparticles penetrated P. stutzeri cells. At the molecular level, a dramatic increase (8.2-fold) in katB gene expression was found in P. stutzeri following Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles exposure, indicative of an oxidative stress-defence system enhancement in this bacterium. In the microcosm experiment, using two different natural soils, Al 2 O 3 or Ag nanoparticles did not affect the Caenorhabditis elegans toxicity endpoints growth, survival, or reproduction. However, differences in microbial phylogenetic compositions were detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The use of katB- and pykA-based sequences showed that the microbial transcriptional response to nanoparticle exposure decreased, suggesting a decrease in cellular activity. These changes were attributable to both the nanoparticles treatment and soil characteristics, highlighting the importance of considering the soil matrix on a case by case basis. - Highlights: • Al 2 O 3 or Ag NPs impact on bacteria was assessed at phenotypic and molecular level. • katB gene involved in oxidative-stress response was overexpressed in P. stutzeri following Al 2 O 3 NPs exposure. • A decrease in bacterial transcriptional response was detected in NPs-treated soils. • A soil-dependent response to specific NP treatment was observed. • In NPs-treated soils no acute toxic effects on C. elegans were found

  19. Preparation and characterization of Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles gas sensor

    Science.gov (United States)

    Anand, Kanica; Kaur, Jasmeet; Singh, Ravi Chand; Thangaraj, Rengasamy

    2017-08-01

    Pure and Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles are synthesized by the co-precipitation method and are characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Gas sensing properties of the sensors has been investigated towards methanol, ethanol, acetone and LPG at different operating temperatures. It is found that the sensor response magnitude of the 3% Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles sensors is higher to 50 ppm of ethanol at 300 °C, to acetone at 350 °C and to LPG at 400 °C. This is mainly attributed to the large number of oxygen vacancies and defects in doped sensors as corroborated by the photoluminescence studies.

  20. Antifungal activity of multifunctional Fe 3O 4-Ag nanocolloids

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chudasama, Bhupendra; Vala, Anjana K.; Andhariya, Nidhi; Upadhyay, R. V.; Mehta, R. V.

    2011-05-01

    In recent years, rapid increase has been observed in the population of microbes that are resistant to conventionally used antibiotics. Antifungal drug therapy is no exception and now resistance to many of the antifungal agents in use has emerged. Therefore, there is an inevitable and urgent medical need for antibiotics with novel antimicrobial mechanisms. Aspergillus glaucus is the potential cause of fatal brain infections and hypersensitivity pneumonitis in immunocompromised patients and leads to death despite aggressive multidrug antifungal therapy. In the present article, we describe the antifungal activity of multifunctional core-shell Fe 3O 4-Ag nanocolloids against A. glaucus isolates. Controlled experiments are also carried out with Ag nanocolloids in order to understand the role of core (Fe 3O 4) in the antifungal action. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of nanocolloids is determined by the micro-dilution method. MIC of A. glaucus is 2000 μg/mL. The result is quite promising and requires further investigations in order to develop a treatment methodology against this death causing fungus in immunocompromised patients.

  1. Insulator at the ultrathin limit: MgO on Ag(001).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schintke, S; Messerli, S; Pivetta, M; Patthey, F; Libioulle, L; Stengel, M; De Vita, A; Schneider, W D

    2001-12-31

    The electronic structure and morphology of ultrathin MgO films epitaxially grown on Ag(001) were investigated using low-temperature scanning tunneling spectroscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy. Layer-resolved differential conductance (dI/dU) measurements reveal that, even at a film thickness of three monolayers, a band gap of about 6 eV is formed corresponding to that of the MgO(001) single-crystal surface. This finding is confirmed by layer-resolved calculations of the local density of states based on density functional theory.

  2. Facile synthesis of Ag nanoparticles supported on TiO2 inverse opal with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhao Yongxun; Yang Beifang; Xu Jiao; Fu Zhengping; Wu Min; Li Feng

    2012-01-01

    TiO 2 inverse opal films loaded with silver nanoparticles (ATIO) were synthesized on glass substrates. TiO 2 inverse opal (TIO) films were prepared via a sol–gel process using self-assembly of SiO 2 colloidal crystal template and a facile wet chemical route featuring an AgNO 3 precursor solution to fabricate silver nanoparticles on the TIO films. The inverse opal structure and Ag deposition physically and chemically modify titania, respectively. The catalysts were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), UV–vis absorption spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The HRTEM results show that Ag nanoparticles measuring 5–10 nm were evenly distributed on TIO. Both the UV- and visible-light photocatalytic activities of the samples were evaluated by analyzing the degradation of methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solution. The results reveal that the apparent reaction rate constant (k app ) of MB degradation of the sample ATIO under UV-light irradiation is approximately 1.5 times that of the conventional Ag-loaded TiO 2 film (ATF) without an ordered porous structure at an AgNO 3 concentration of 5 mM in the precursor solution. At an AgNO 3 concentration of 10 mM, the sample exhibits a k app value approximately 4.2 times that of ATF under visible-light irradiation. This enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect of optimized Ag nanoparticle deposition and an ordered macroporous TIO structure. Repeated cycling tests revealed that the samples showed stable photocatalytic activity, even after six repeated cycles. - Highlights: ►TiO 2 inverse opal films loaded with silver nanoparticles were synthesized. ►Physical and chemical modifications of TiO 2 were achieved simultaneously. ►The catalysts exhibited enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. ►The mechanism for enhanced

  3. ZnO nanorods arrays with Ag nanoparticles on the (002) plane derived by liquid epitaxy growth and electrodeposition process

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yin Xingtian; Que Wenxiu; Shen Fengyu

    2011-01-01

    Well-aligned ZnO nanorods (NRs) arrays with Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on the (002) plane are obtained by combining a liquid epitaxy technique with an electrodeposition process. Cyclic voltammetry study is employed to understand the electrochemical behaviors of the electrodeposition system, and potentiostatic method is employed to deposit silver NPs on the ZnO NRs in the electrolyte with an Ag + concentration of 1 mM. X-ray diffraction analysis is used to study the crystalline properties of the as-prepared samples, and energy dispersive X-ray is adopted to confirm the composition at the surface of the deposited samples. Results indicate only a small quantity of silver can be deposited on the surface of the samples. Effect of the deposition potential and time on the morphological properties of the resultant Ag NPs/ZnO NRs are investigated in detail. Scanning electron microscopy images and transmission electron microscopy images indicate that the Ag NPs deposited on the (002) plane of the ZnO NRs with a large dispersion in diameter can be obtained by a single potentiostatic deposition process, while dense Ag NPs with a much smaller diameter dispersion on the top of the ZnO NRs, most of which locate on the conical tip of the ZnO NRs, can be obtained by a two-potentiostatic deposition process, The mechanism of this deposition process is also suggested.

  4. Turismo receptivo em Curitiba: uma perspectiva da comercialização on-line pelas agências de turismo

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Raquel Pazini

    2014-07-01

    Full Text Available O turista se utiliza de diversos canais de distribuição para poder viabilizar sua viagem e obter informações acerca do destino de seu interesse. Atualmente, a tecnologia oferece muitos recursos e ferramentas para consultas rápidas e práticas, que permitem o planejamento e a execução de uma viagem, por qualquer pessoa e de qualquer lugar do mundo. As agências de turismo receptivo são uma opção para o turista obter serviços na chegada ao destino, com comodidade e atendimento especializado. Mas, para ampliar e aperfeiçoar este acesso, a internet é uma ferramenta imprescindível para o visitante conhecer antecipadamente estes serviços, e incluir na sua programação. Por isso, o objetivo deste trabalho é analisar o conteúdo informacional dos sites das agências de turismo receptivo em Curitiba, com enfoque nas características da comercialização de seus produtos, visando um turismo sustentável de qualidade. A metodologia utilizada foi de análise sistemática das informações disponibilizadas nos sites oficiais das agências associadas ao Núcleo de Turismo Receptivo de Curitiba, segundo indicadores da análise de sites voltados ao consumidor, apresentado pela OMT – Organização Mundial do Turismo. Como resultados da pesquisa, pode-se perceber que as poucas agências especializadas estão mais voltadas para um conteúdo informacional, e ainda não oferecem recursos e autonomia para reservas e compras on-line de seus produtos.

  5. Algae decorated TiO2/Ag hybrid nanofiber membrane with enhanced photocatalytic activity for Cr(VI) removal under visible light

    OpenAIRE

    Wang, L; Zhang, C; Gao, F; Mailhot, G; Pan, G

    2017-01-01

    Algae as an abundant natural biomass, more attention has been paid to explore its potential application in environmental pollutants treatment. This work prepared the algae-TiO2/Ag bionano hybrid material by loading algae cells on the ultrafine TiO2/Ag chitosan hybrid nanofiber mat. For the first time, the synergistic photocatalytic effect of fresh algae and TiO2/Ag nanomaterial was investigated by removal of Cr(VI). The addition of algae significantly improved the photo-removal of Cr(VI) in t...

  6. Annealing impact on the structural and photoluminescence properties of ZnO thin films on Ag substrates

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, Linhua; Zheng, Gaige; Lai, Min; Pei, Shixin

    2014-01-01

    Graphical abstract: The Gaussian fitting indicates that the PL spectra of the ZnO thin films include four emission peaks which are centered at 380, 520, 570 and 610 nm, respectively. The ZnO thin film deposited on an Ag substrate shows a stronger green emission and a weaker UV emission than the ZnO thin film directly deposited on a Si substrate annealed at 400 °C. With the rise of annealing temperature, the visible emission intensity and wavelength are largely changed. Highlights: • ZnO thin films have been prepared on Ag substrates by sol–gel method. • The Ag substrates have a great effect on the photoluminescence of ZnO thin films. • All the films exhibit three visible emission bands including green, yellow and red. • Annealing causes a large change of the visible emission intensity and wavelength. -- Abstract: In this work, ZnO thin films were prepared by sol–gel method on Ag substrates. The structural and optical properties of the films annealed at different temperatures were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence, respectively. The results of XRD showed that all the ZnO thin films had a wurtzite phase and were preferentially oriented along the c-axis direction. The sample annealed at 400 °C exhibited better crystalline quality than the ZnO thin film directly deposited on a Si substrate annealed at the same temperature. The photoluminescence spectra showed that ZnO thin films had an ultraviolet emission band and three visible emission bands including green, yellow and red band. The sample annealed at 400 °C exhibited a stronger green emission and a weaker ultraviolet emission compared with the ZnO thin film deposited on a Si substrate annealed at the same temperature. The difference of the luminescence properties was thought to be originated from different substrates. As for the ZnO films on Ag substrates, the increase of annealing temperature led to different changes of visible emissions

  7. The highly efficient photocatalytic and light harvesting property of Ag-TiO2 with negative nano-holes structure inspired from cicada wings.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zada, Imran; Zhang, Wang; Zheng, Wangshu; Zhu, Yuying; Zhang, Zhijian; Zhang, Jianzhong; Imtiaz, Muhammad; Abbas, Waseem; Zhang, Di

    2017-12-08

    The negative replica of biomorphic TiO 2 with nano-holes structure has been effectively fabricated directly from nano-nipple arrays structure of cicada wings by using a simple, low-cost and highly effective sol-gel ultrasonic method. The nano-holes array structure was well maintained after calcination in air at 500 °C. The Ag nanoparticles (10 nm-25 nm) were homogeneously decorated on the surface and to the side wall of nano-holes structure. It was observed that the biomorphic Ag-TiO 2 showed remarkable photocatalytic activity by degradation of methyl blue (MB) under UV-vis light irradiation. The biomorphic Ag-TiO 2 with nano-holes structure showed superior photocatalytic activity compared to the biomorphic TiO 2 and commercial Degussa P25. This high-performance photocatalytic activity of the biomorphic Ag-TiO 2 may be attributed to the nano-holes structure, localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) property of the Ag nanoparticles, and enhanced electron-hole separation. Moreover, the biomorphic Ag-TiO 2 showed more absorption capability in the visible wavelength range. This work provides a new insight to design such a structure which may lead to a range of novel applications.

  8. Safe disposal of radioactive iodide ions from solutions by Ag2O grafted sodium niobate nanofibers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mu, Wanjun; Li, Xingliang; Liu, Guoping; Yu, Qianhong; Xie, Xiang; Wei, Hongyuan; Jian, Yuan

    2016-01-14

    Radioactive iodine isotopes are released into the environment by the nuclear industry and medical research institutions using radioactive materials, and have negative effects on organisms living within the ecosystem. Thus, safe disposal of radioactive iodine is necessary and crucial. For this reason, the uptake of iodide ions was investigated in Ag2O nanocrystal grafted sodium niobate nanofibers, which were prepared by forming a well-matched phase coherent interface between them. The resulting composite was applied as an efficient adsorbent for I(-) anions by forming an AgI precipitate, which also remained firmly attached to the substrates. Due to their one-dimensional morphology, the new adsorbents can be easily dispersed in liquids and readily separated after purification. This significantly enhances the adsorption efficiency and reduces the separation costs. The change in structure from the pristine sodium niobate to Ag2O anchored sodium niobate and to the used adsorbent was examined by using various characterization techniques. The effects of Ag(+) concentration, pH, equilibration time, ionic strength and competing ions on the iodide ion removal ability of the composite were studied. The Ag2O nanocrystal grafted sodium niobate adsorbent showed a high adsorption capacity and excellent selectivity for I(-) anions in basic solutions. Our results are useful for the further development of improved adsorbents for removing I(-) anions from basic wastewater.

  9. Synthesis and characterization of bracelet-like magnetic nanorings consisting of Ag-Fe3O4 bi-component nanoparticles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhou, Shuai; Chen, Qianwang

    2011-09-14

    Stable bracelet-like magnetic nanorings, formed by Ag-Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles with an average size around 40 nm, have been successfully prepared in large scale by means of reducing Ag(+) and Fe(3+) simultaneously under mild conditions. In the reaction, tiny grains of silver are used as seeds to prompt small Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles to grow larger, which is essential to enhance the magnetic dipole-dipole interactions, while only superparamagnetic Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles (about 10 nm in size) can be obtained in the absence of Ag seeds. The XRD, TEM, SAED and the EDS line scan data reveal that these nanoparticles are in the core-shell structure. These magnetic Ag-Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles assembled into nanorings by magnetic dipole-dipole interactions with a diameter of 100-200 nm. The saturation magnetization of the nanorings is 39.5 emu g(-1) at room temperature. The MRI images indicate that these kind of nanorings have the potential application in diagnostics as a T(2) MRI contrast agent. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

  10. Topotactic synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of a new hexagonal polytype of silver cobaltate(III) AgCoO2+\\delta

    OpenAIRE

    Muguerra, Hervé; Colin, Claire; Anne, Michel; Julien, M. -H.; Strobel, Pierre

    2008-01-01

    International audience; A new form of delafossite-type AgCoO2+δ was prepared using ion exchange from Na0.75CoO2 in molten AgNO3-NH4NO3 at 175°C. Its structure was determined by Rietveld refinement from XRD data; it is hexagonal, space group P63/mmc, a = 2.871 and c = 12.222 Å. Its structure differs from previously reported AgCoO2 (R-3m, 3R polytype) by the stacking of Co-O layers; in the new phase the 2H stacking of the precursor Na0.75CoO2, consistent with a topotactic ion exchange of Na by ...

  11. Sensors based on Ag-loaded hematite (α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles for methyl mercaptan detection at room temperature

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Daniel Garcia

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available Sensors based on Ag/α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles have been prepared by the coprecipitation method for sensing methyl mercaptan at room temperature. X-ray diffraction patterns of samples matched perfectly with characteristic peaks of hematite with no peaks assigned to Ag even at the highest concentration. STEM images and EDX analysis revealed the presence of Ag nanoparticles (from 2 to 5 nm which were highly dispersed onto α-Fe2O3 surface with an Ag/Fe ratio from 0.014 to 0.099. The Ag nanoparticles were deposited on the hematite surface. Sensing tests of Ag-loaded hematite nanoparticles showed much higher response signal than the unmodified sensor. Hematite loaded with 3%(Wt Ag showed the highest response with a linear dependence from 20 to 80 ppm. The sensor also depicted a good selectivity and stability during 4 days with short recovery time. The high dispersion of reduced Ag evaluated by XPS analysis played an important chemical role in the sensing mechanism that favored the contact of CH3SH with oxygen.

  12. Effect of Ag doping on the properties of ZnO thin films for UV stimulated emission

    Science.gov (United States)

    Razeen, Ahmed S.; Gadallah, A.-S.; El-Nahass, M. M.

    2018-06-01

    Ag doped ZnO thin films have been prepared using sol-gel spin coating method, with different doping concentrations. Structural and morphological properties of the films have been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. Thin films have been optically pumped and stimulated emission has been observed with strong peaks in the UV region. The UV stimulated emission is found to be due to exciton-exciton scattering, and Ag doping promoted this process by increasing the excitons concentrations in the ZnO lattice. Output-input intensity relation and peak emission, FWHM, and quantum efficiency relations with pump intensity have been reported. The threshold for which stimulated emission started has been evaluated to be about 18 MW/cm2 with quantum efficiency of about 58.7%. Mechanisms explaining the role of Ag in enhancement of stimulated emission from ZnO thin films have been proposed.

  13. The anomalous behaviour of Ag-Al2O3 Cermet electroformed devices

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Khan, M.S.R.

    2003-06-01

    Cermet coating consisting of silver particles in an aluminium oxide matrix were prepared on glass substrates by vacuum deposition. Variation of the circulating current with potential difference was obtained in evaporated Al/Ag-Al 2 O 3 /Cu sandwich structures, 100 to 200 nm thick containing 10 wt % Ag. It was observed that the investigated sandwich structures exhibit anomalous behaviour such as electroforming with Voltage-Controlled-Negative Resistance (VCNR) in vacuo of ∼ 4 x 10 -6 torr. The formed characteristics were explained on the basis of filamentary model. (author)

  14. Stability of Ag@SiO2 core–shell particles in conditions of photocatalytic overall water-splitting

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Park, Sun Young; Han, Kai; O'Neill, Devin B.; Mul, Guido

    2017-01-01

    Core–shell nanoparticles containing plasmonic metals (Ag or Au) have been frequently reported to enhance performance of photo-electrochemical (PEC) devices. However, the stability of these particles in water-splitting conditions is usually not addressed. In this study we demonstrate that Ag@SiO2

  15. Topotactic synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of a new hexagonal polytype of silver cobaltate(III) AgCoO 2+δ

    Science.gov (United States)

    Muguerra, Hervé; Colin, Claire; Anne, Michel; Julien, Marc-Henri; Strobel, Pierre

    2008-11-01

    A new form of delafossite-type AgCoO 2+δ was prepared using ion exchange from Na 0.75CoO 2 in molten AgNO 3-NH 4NO 3 at 175 °C. Its structure was determined by the Rietveld refinement from X-ray powder diffraction measurements (XRD) data; it is hexagonal, space group P6 3/ mmc, a=2.871 and c=12.222 Å. Its structure differs from previously reported AgCoO 2 ( R3¯m, 3R polytype) by the stacking of Co-O layers; in the new phase, the 2H stacking of the precursor Na 0.75CoO 2 is consistent with a topotactic ion exchange of Na by Ag. The new phase is found to contain a slight oxygen excess ( δ=0.06). Magnetic susceptibility measurements show the absence of magnetic transition and a weak Curie term, consistent with the non-magnetic character of Co 3+ ions.

  16. Synthesis and electromagnetic absorption properties of Ag-coated reduced graphene oxide with MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Yan, E-mail: wangyan287580632@126.com; Wu, Xinming; Zhang, Wenzhi; Huang, Shuo

    2016-04-15

    A ternary composite of Ag/MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The morphology, microstructure, magnetic and electromagnetic properties of as-prepared Ag/MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/RGO composite were characterized by means of XRD, TEM, XPS, VSM and vector network analyzer. The maximum reflection loss (R{sub L}) of Ag/ MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/RGO composite shows maximum absorption of −38 dB at 6 GHz with the thickness of 3.5 mm, and the absorption bandwidth with the R{sub L} below −10 dB is up to 3.5 GHz (from 3.7 to 7.2 GHz). The result demonstrates that the introduction of Ag significantly leads to the multiple absorbing mechanisms. It is believed that such composite could serve as a powerful candidate for microwave absorber. - Highlights: • A ternary composite of Ag/MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was synthesized by a facile method. • The morphology, microstructure, magnetic and electromagnetic properties were characterized. • The maximum reflection loss of Ag/MnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}/RGO is −38 dB at 6 GHz with a thickness of 3.5 mm. • The composite shows a wide absorption band.

  17. Slow voltage oscillations in Ag-doped superconducting Y-Ba-Cu-O

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Altinkok, A.; Yetis, H.; Kilic, K.; Kilic, A.; Olutas, M.

    2008-01-01

    The time effects in Ag-doped YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x sample (YBCO/Ag) were examined by means of transport relaxation measurements (V-t curves). At well-defined values of transport current (I), temperature (T) and external magnetic field (H), an abrupt rise in sample voltage was observed at the early stage of the relaxation process. After reducing the initial current to a finite value, the sample voltage levels off within a very short time. The rapid voltage drops seen in V-t curves were attributed to the rapid dynamic reorganization of flux lines traversing the sample edges. These observations were also interpreted as an indication of doping of YBCO with Ag and easy suppression of superconducting order parameter due to the presence of Ag. In addition, we investigated the influence of bidirectional square wave (BSW) current on the evolution of V-t curves at different temperatures and external magnetic fields. It was observed that a nonlinear response seen in V-t curves to BSW current with sufficiently short periods or sufficiently low amplitude reflects itself as regular sinusoidal- type voltage oscillations, which were discussed mainly in terms of the dynamic competition between pinning and depinning

  18. Ética na publicidade e propaganda: a visão do executivo de agências de comunicação do Rio Grande do Sul

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Aida Maria Lovison

    Full Text Available O marketing, enquanto área da Administração, inclui a propaganda, ferramenta que tem sido alvo de constantes questionamentos éticos de parte da sociedade. Apesar de existir no âmbito brasileiro e mundial um grande número de estudos focados nos efeitos da propaganda sobre o consumidor, o mesmo não pode ser dito quando se trata de analisar a relação entre ética e atuação das agências de comunicação e, por via midiática, com a sociedade em geral. Inserido nessa lacuna, o presente estudo visa elucidar quais valores estão subjacentes aos posicionamentos adotados pelos executivos de agências de comunicação situadas na Região Metropolitana de Porto Alegre/RS no que tange aos valores que fundam o vínculo entre agência, patrocinadores e a própria sociedade. Nesse intuito, foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade com executivos de agências de comunicação; posteriormente, os textos foram transcritos e analisados através de mapas de associação de ideias. Como resultados, verificou-se a existência de certo "vazio ético". Assim, embora reconheçam a indissociabilidade entre vida ética no trabalho e na vida pessoal, há contradições. Não obstante, identificaram-se profissionais que, apesar das tensões advindas deste cenário, decidem corajosamente fazer valer posições que ratificam, mesmo em situações-limite, a impossibilidade de conceder face a um critério essencial para a ética: o respeito, principalmente, pela pessoa; isto é, a alteridade.

  19. Impact of O-glycosylation on the molecular and cellular adhesion properties of the Escherichia coli autotransporter protein Ag43.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Reidl, Sebastian; Lehmann, Annika; Schiller, Roswitha; Salam Khan, A; Dobrindt, Ulrich

    2009-08-01

    Antigen 43 (Ag43) represents an entire family of closely related autotransporter proteins in Escherichia coli and has been described to confer aggregation and fluffing of cells, to promote biofilm formation, uptake and survival in macrophages as well as long-term persistence of uropathogenic E. coli in the murine urinary tract. Furthermore, it has been reported that glycosylation of the Ag43 passenger domain (alpha(43)) stabilizes its conformation and increases adhesion to Hep-2 cells. We characterized the role of Ag43 as an adhesin and the impact of O-glycosylation on the function of Ag43. To analyze whether structural variations in the alpha(43) domain correlate with different functional properties, we cloned 5 different agn43 alleles from different E. coli subtypes and tested them for autoaggregation, biofilm formation, adhesion to different eukaryotic cell lines as well as to purified components of the extracellular matrix. These experiments were performed with nonglycosylated and O-glycosylated Ag43 variants. We show for the first time that Ag43 mediates bacterial adhesion in a cell line-specific manner and that structural variations of the alpha(43) domain correlate with increased adhesive properties to proteins of the extracellular matrix such as collagen and laminin. Whereas O-glycosylation of many alpha(43) domains led to impaired autoaggregation and a significantly reduced adhesion to eukaryotic cell lines, their interaction with collagen was significantly increased. These data demonstrate that O-glycosylation is not a prerequisite for Ag43 function and that the different traits mediated by Ag43, i.e., biofilm formation, autoaggregation, adhesion to eukaryotic cells and extracellular matrix proteins, rely on distinct mechanisms.

  20. Study on the Visible-Light Photocatalytic Performance and Degradation Mechanism of Diclofenac Sodium under the System of Hetero-Structural CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 with H2O2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xiaojuan Chen

    2018-03-01

    Full Text Available Two kinds of CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 with different heterojunction structures were prepared based on the combination of hydrothermal and in-situ precipitation methods with surfactant additives (sodium citrate and sodium stearate, and their characteristics were systematically resolved by X-ray Diffraction (XRD, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM/ High-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM, UV-vis Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (DRS and Photoluminescence (PL. Meanwhile, the photocatalytic properties of the catalysts were determined for diclofenac sodium (DS degradation and the photocatalytic mechanism was also explored. The results indicate that both of the two kinds of CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 exhibit higher photocatalytic efficiency, mineralization rate, and stability than that of pure CuBi2O4 or Ag3PO4. Moreover, the catalytic activity of CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 can be further enhanced by adding H2O2. The free radical capture experiments show that in the pure CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 photocatalytic system, the OH• and O2•− are the main species participating in DS degradation; however, in the CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 photocatalytic system with H2O2, all OH•, h+, and O2•− take part in the DS degradation, and the contribution order is OH• > h+ > O2•−. Accordingly, the photocatalytic mechanism of CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 could be explained by the Z-Scheme theory, while the catalysis of CuBi2O4/Ag3PO4 with H2O2 follows the heterojunction energy band theory.

  1. Microstructure, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Ag/Bi2Sr2CaCu2O x Self-lubricating Composites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tang, Hua; Zhang, Du; Wang, Yuqi; Zhang, Yi; Ji, Xiaorui; Song, Haojie; Li, Changsheng

    2014-01-01

    Ag/Bi2Sr2CaCu2O x self-lubricating composites were successfully fabricated by a facile powder metallurgy method. The structure and morphology of the as-synthesized composites and the worn surface after tribometer testing are characterized by using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy together with energy dispersive spectrometry. The results indicated that self-lubricating composites are composed of superconductor phase and Ag phase. Moreover, the effects of Ag on mechanical and tribological properties of the novel composites were investigated. The friction test results showed that the friction coefficient of the pure Bi2212 against stainless steel is about 0.40 at ambient temperature and abruptly decreases to about 0.17 when the temperature is cooled to 77 K. The friction coefficients of the composites from room temperature to high temperature were lower and more stable than those of pure Bi2Sr2CaCu2O x . When the content of Ag is 10 wt.%, the Ag/Bi2Sr2CaCu2O x composites exhibited excellent tribological performance, the improved tribological properties are attributed to the formation of soft metallic Ag films at the contacted zone of the composites.

  2. Nanoparticles of Pt and Ag supported in meso porous SiO2: characterization and catalytic applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Espinosa, M.E.; Perez H, R.; Perez A, M.; Mondragon G, G.; Arenas A, J.

    2004-01-01

    The surface properties of catalysts of Pt and Ag supported in conventional SiO 2 hey have been studied through reduction reactions of N 2 O with H 2 which is a sensitive reaction to the structure. In our case it was used a meso porous ceramic support of SiO 2 of great surface area (1100 m 2 /gr), where it is caused a high dispersion of the metallic nanoparticles of Pt and Ag, the total charge of the active phase in the meso porous support was of 3% in weight. The catalysts show a variation in the percentages of conversion of N 2 O depending on the size and dispersion of the metallic phases. (Author)

  3. Highly sensitive and stable Ag@SiO2 nanocubes for label-free SERS-photoluminescence detection of biomolecules

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nguyen, Minh-Kha; Su, Wei-Nien; Chen, Ching-Hsiang; Rick, John; Hwang, Bing-Joe

    2017-03-01

    Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and fluorescence microscopy are a widely used biological and chemical characterization techniques. However, the peak overlapping in multiplexed experiments and rapid photobleaching of fluorescent organic dyes is still the limitations. When compared to Ag nanocubes (NCs), higher SERS sensitivities can be obtained with thin shelled silica Ag@SiO2 NCs, in contrast metal-enhanced photoluminescence (MEPL) is only found with NCs that have thicker silica shells. A 'dual functionality' represented by the simultaneous strengthening of SERS and MEPL signals can be achieved by mixing Ag@SiO2 NCs, with a silica shell thickness of 1.5 nm and 4.4 nm. This approach allows both the Ag@SiO2 NCs SERS and MEPL sensitivities to be maintained at 90% after 12 weeks of storage. Based on the distinguished detection of creatinine and flavin adenine dinucleotide in the mixture, the integration of SERS and MEPL together on a stable single plasmonic nanoparticle platform offers an opportunity to enhance both biomarker detection sensitivity and specificity.

  4. Photocatalytic oxidation removal of Hg"0 using ternary Ag/AgI-Ag_2CO_3 hybrids in wet scrubbing process under fluorescent light

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, Anchao; Zhang, Lixiang; Chen, Xiaozhuan; Zhu, Qifeng; Liu, Zhichao; Xiang, Jun

    2017-01-01

    Highlights: • Ag/AgI-Ag_2CO_3 hybrids were employed for Hg"0 removal under fluorescent light. • Superoxide radical (·O_2"−) played a key role in Hg"0 removal. • NO exhibited a significant effect on Hg"0 removal in comparison to SO_2. • The mechanism for enhanced Hg"0 removal over Ag/AgI-Ag_2CO_3 was proposed. - Abstract: A series of ternary Ag/AgI-Ag_2CO_3 photocatalysts synthesized using a facile coprecipitation method were employed to investigate their performances of Hg"0 removal in a wet scrubbing reactor. The hybrids were characterized by N_2 adsorption-desorption, XRD, SEM-EDS, HRTEM, XPS, DRS and ESR. The photocatalytic activities of Hg"0 removal were evaluated under fluorescent light. The results showed that AgI content, fluorescent light irradiation, reaction temperature all showed significant influences on Hg"0 removal. NO exhibited significant effect on Hg"0 removal in comparison to SO_2. Among these ternary Ag/AgI-Ag_2CO_3 hybrids, Ag/AgI(0.1)-Ag_2CO_3 showed the highest Hg"0 removal efficiency, which could be ascribed to the effective separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs between AgI and Ag_2CO_3 and the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect in the visible region by metallic silver nanoparticles (Ag"0 NPs). The trapping studies of reactive radicals showed that the superoxide radicals (·O_2"−) may play a key role in Hg"0 removal under fluorescent light. According to the experimental and characterization results, a possible photocatalytic oxidation mechanism for enhanced Hg"0 removal over Ag/AgI(0.1)-Ag_2CO_3 hybrid under fluorescent light was proposed.

  5. Modification of Ag nanoparticles on the surface of SrTiO3 particles and resultant influence on photoreduction of CO2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shao, Kunjuan; Wang, Yanjie; Iqbal, Muzaffar; Lin, Lin; Wang, Kai; Zhang, Xuehua; He, Meng; He, Tao

    2018-03-01

    Modification of a wide-bandgap semiconductor with noble metals that can exhibit surface plasmon effect is an effective approach to make it responsive to the visible light. In this work, a series of cubic and all-edge-truncated SrTiO3 with and without thermal pretreatment in air are modified by Ag nanoparticles via photodeposition method. The crystal structure, morphology, loading amount of Ag nanoparticles, and optical properties of the obtained Ag-SrTiO3 nanomaterials are well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning microscope, transmission electron microscope, energy disperse X-ray spectroscopy, ICP-MS and UV-vis diffuse-reflection spectroscopy. The loading amount and size of the Ag nanoparticles can be controlled to some extent by tuning the photodeposition time via growth-dissolution mechanism. The Ag nanoparticles are inclined to deposit on different locations on the surface of cubic and truncated SrTiO3 with and without thermal pretreatment. The resultant SrTiO3 modified by Ag nanoparticles exhibits visible light activity for photocatalytic reduction of CO2, which is closely related to the oxygen vacancy induced by thermal pretreatment, size and amount of Ag nanoparticles. Accordingly, there is an optimized photodeposition time for the synthesis of the photocatalyst that exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity.

  6. Ag nanoparticles-decorated ZnO nanorod array on a mechanical flexible substrate with enhanced optical and antimicrobial properties

    OpenAIRE

    Chen, Yi; Tse, Wai Hei; Chen, Longyan; Zhang, Jin

    2015-01-01

    Heteronanostructured zinc oxide nanorod (ZnO NR) array are vertically grown on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) through a hydrothermal method followed by an in situ deposition of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) through a photoreduction process. The Ag-ZnO heterostructured nanorods on PDMS are measured with an average diameter of 160?nm and an average length of 2??m. ZnO NRs measured by high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) shows highly crystalline with a lattice fringe of 0.255?nm...

  7. 57Fe Mössbauer study of unusual magnetic structure of multiferroic 3R-AgFeO2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sobolev, A.; Rusakov, V.; Moskvin, A.; Gapochka, A.; Belik, A.; Glazkova, I.; Akulenko, A.; Demazeau, G.; Presniakov, I.

    2017-07-01

    We report new results of a 57Fe Mössbauer study of hyperfine magnetic interactions in the layered multiferroic 3R-AgFeO2 demonstrating two magnetic phase transitions at T N1 and T N2. The asymptotic value β *  ≈  0.34 for the critical exponent obtained from the temperature dependence of the hyperfine field H hf(T) at 57Fe the nuclei below T N1  ≈  14 K indicates that 3R-AgFeO2 shows quasi-3D critical behavior. The spectra just above T N1 (T N1  formula to describe the dependence of H anis on the distortions of the (FeO6) clusters. Analysis of different mechanisms of spin and hyperfine interactions in 3R-AgFeO2 and its structural analogue CuFeO2 points to a specific role played by the topology of the exchange coupling and the oxygen polarization in the delafossite-like structures.

  8. TiO2/SiO2 prepared via facile sol-gel method as an ideal support for green synthesis of Ag nanoparticles using Oenothera biennis extract and their excellent catalytic performance in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Bahar Khodadadi

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available In the present study, the extract of the plant of Oenothera biennis was used to green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs as an environmentally friendly, simple and low cost method. And Additionally, TiO2/SiO2 was prepared via facile sol-gel method using starch as an important, naturally abundant organic polymer as an ideal support. The Ag NPs/TiO2/SiO2 as an effective catalyst was prepared through reduction of Ag+ ions using Oenothera biennis extract as the reducing and stabilizing agent and Ag NPs immobilization on TiO2/SiO2 surface in the absence of any stabilizer or surfactant. Several techniques such as FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD, sScanning eElectron mMicroscopy (FE-SEM, Eenergy dDispersive X-ray sSpectroscopy (EDS, and Ttransmission Eelectron Mmicroscopy (TEM were used to characterize TiO2/SiO2, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs, and Ag NPs/TiO2/SiO2. Moreover, the catalytic activity of the Ag NPs/ TiO2/SiO2 was investigated in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP at room temperature. On the basis of the results, the Ag NPs/TiO2/SiO2 was found to be high catalytic activity highly active catalyst according to the experimental results in this study. In addition, Ag NPs/TiO2/SiO2 can be recovered and reused several times in the reduction of 4-NP with no significant loss of catalytic activity.

  9. Ag nanoparticle–ZnO nanowire hybrid nanostructures as enhanced and robust antimicrobial textiles via a green chemical approach

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Zhou; Yuan, Weiwei; Song, Wei; Niu, Yongshan; Yan, Ling; Yu, Min; Dai, Ming; Feng, Siyu; Wang, Menghang; Fan, Yubo; Tang, Haoying; Liu, Tengjiao; Jiang, Peng; Wang, Zhong Lin

    2014-01-01

    A new approach for fabrication of a long-term and recoverable antimicrobial nanostructure/textile hybrid without increasing the antimicrobial resistance is demonstrated. Using in situ synthesized Ag nanoparticles (NPs) anchored on ZnO nanowires (NWs) grown on textiles by a ‘dip-in and light-irradiation’ green chemical method, we obtained ZnONW@AgNP nanocomposites with small-size and uniform Ag NPs, which have shown superior performance for antibacterial applications. These new Ag/ZnO/textile antimicrobial composites can be used for wound dressings and medical textiles for topical and prophylactic antibacterial treatments, point-of-use water treatment to improve the cleanliness of water and antimicrobial air filters to prevent bioaerosols accumulating in ventilation, heating, and air-conditioning systems. (paper)

  10. Ag2S/CdS/TiO2 Nanotube Array Films with High Photocurrent Density by Spotting Sample Method.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Hong; Zhao, Peini; Zhang, Fanjun; Liu, Yuliang; Hao, Jingcheng

    2015-12-01

    Ag2S/CdS/TiO2 hybrid nanotube array films (Ag2S/CdS/TNTs) were prepared by selectively depositing a narrow-gap semiconductor-Ag2S (0.9 eV) quantum dots (QDs)-in the local domain of the CdS/TiO2 nanotube array films by spotting sample method (SSM). The improvement of sunlight absorption ability and photocurrent density of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotube array films (TNTs) which were obtained by anodic oxidation method was realized because of modifying semiconductor QDs. The CdS/TNTs, Ag2S/TNTs, and Ag2S/CdS/TNTs fabricated by uniformly depositing the QDs into the TNTs via the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method were synthesized, respectively. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) results demonstrated that the Ag2S/CdS/TNTs prepared by SSM and other films were successfully prepared. In comparison with the four films of TNTs, CdS/TNTs, Ag2S/TNTs, and Ag2S/CdS/TNTs by SILAR, the Ag2S/CdS/TNTs prepared by SSM showed much better absorption capability and the highest photocurrent density in UV-vis range (320~800 nm). The cycles of local deposition have great influence on their photoelectric properties. The photocurrent density of Ag2S/CdS/TNTs by SSM with optimum deposition cycles of 6 was about 37 times that of TNTs without modification, demonstrating their great prospective applications in solar energy utilization fields.

  11. Reduced graphene oxide and Ag wrapped TiO{sub 2} photocatalyst for enhanced visible light photocatalysis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Leong, Kah Hon; Sim, Lan Ching; Jang, Min; Ibrahim, Shaliza [Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia); Bahnemann, Detlef [Institut fuer Technische Chemie, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Callinstrasse 3, D-30167 Hannover (Germany); Saravanan, Pichiah, E-mail: pichiahsaravanan@gmail.com [Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia); Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Center (NANOCAT), University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

    2015-10-01

    A well-organised reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and silver (Ag) wrapped TiO{sub 2} nano-hybrid was successfully achieved through a facile and easy route. The inherent characteristics of the synthesized RGO-Ag/TiO{sub 2} were revealed through crystalline phase, morphology, chemical composition, Raman scattering, UV-visible absorption, and photoluminescence analyses. The adopted synthesis route significantly controlled the uniform formation of silver nanoparticles and contributed for the absorption of light in the visible spectrum through localized surface plasmon resonance effects. The wrapped RGO nanosheets triggered the electron mobility and promoted visible light shift towards red spectrum. The accomplishment of synergised effect of RGO and Ag well degraded Bisphenol A under visible light irradiation with a removal efficiency of 61.9%.

  12. Photocatalytic hydrogen generation enhanced by band gap narrowing and improved charge carrier mobility in AgTaO3 by compensated co-doping.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Min; Zhang, Junying; Dang, Wenqiang; Cushing, Scott K; Guo, Dong; Wu, Nianqiang; Yin, Penggang

    2013-10-14

    The correlation of the electronic band structure with the photocatalytic activity of AgTaO3 has been studied by simulation and experiments. Doping wide band gap oxide semiconductors usually introduces discrete mid-gap states, which extends the light absorption but has limited benefit for photocatalytic activity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that compensated co-doping in AgTaO3 can overcome this problem by increasing the light absorption and simultaneously improving the charge carrier mobility. N/H and N/F co-doping can delocalize the discrete mid-gap states created by sole N doping in AgTaO3, which increases the band curvature and the electron-to-hole effective mass ratio. In particular, N/F co-doping creates a continuum of states that extend the valence band of AgTaO3. N/F co-doping thus improves the light absorption without creating the mid-gap states, maintaining the necessary redox potentials for water splitting and preventing from charge carrier trapping. The experimental results have confirmed that the N/F-codoped AgTaO3 exhibits a red-shift of the absorption edge in comparison with the undoped AgTaO3, leading to remarkable enhancement of photocatalytic activity toward hydrogen generation from water.

  13. Facile synthesis of AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} multi-heterojunctions with high visible light activity for Cr(VI) reduction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Qi [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); The Brook Byer Institute for Sustainable Systems and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta 30332 (United States); Shi, Xiaodong; Liu, Enqin [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Crittenden, John C. [The Brook Byer Institute for Sustainable Systems and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta 30332 (United States); Ma, Xiangjuan; Zhang, Yi [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Cong, Yanqing, E-mail: yqcong@hotmail.com [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2016-11-05

    Graphical abstract: Highly visible-light-active AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} with multi-heterojunctions was developed. - Highlights: • Visible-light-active AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} with multi-heterojunctions was prepared. • Highly enhanced photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) was observed. • k{sub Cr(VI)} on AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} increased by ca.16 times relative to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}. • Decreased E{sub g}, shifted E{sub fb} and reduced charge transfer resistance were observed. • Simultaneous reduction of Cr(VI) and degradation of organics were achieved. - Abstract: AgI sensitized BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite (AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}) with multi-heterojunctions was prepared using simple etching-deposition process. Different characterization techniques were performed to investigate the structural, optical and electrical properties of the as-prepared photocatalysts. It was found that the ternary AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite exhibited: (1) improved photocurrent response, (2) smaller band gap, (3) greatly reduced charge transfer resistance and (4) negative shift of flat band potential, which finally led to easier generation and more efficient separation of photo-generated electron-hole pairs at the hetero-interfaces. Thus, for the reduction of Cr(VI), AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation at near neutral pH. AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was optimized when the initial molar ratio of KI to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} and AgNO{sub 3} to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was 1:1 and 10%, respectively. The estimated k{sub Cr(VI)} on optimized AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was about 16 times that on pure Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Good stability was also observed in cyclic runs, indicating that the current multi-heterostructured photocatalyst is highly desirable for the remediation of Cr(VI)-containing wastewater.

  14. Synthesis, morphological control, and antibacterial properties of hollow/solid Ag2S/Ag heterodimers

    KAUST Repository

    Pang, Maolin

    2010-08-11

    Ag2S and Ag are important functional materials that have received considerable research interest in recent years. In this work, we develop a solution-based synthetic method to combine these two materials into hollow/solid Ag2S/Ag heterodimers at room temperature. Starting from monodisperse Cu2O solid spheres, CuS hollow spheres can be converted from Cu2O through a modified Kirkendall process, and the obtained CuS can then be used as a solid precursor for preparation of the Ag2S/Ag heterodimers through ion exchange and photo-assisted reduction. We have found that formation of the Ag2S/Ag heterodimers is instantaneous, and the size of Ag nanocrystals on the hollow spheres of Ag2S can be controlled by changing the concentration and power of reducing agents in the synthesis. The growth of Ag nanoparticles on hollow spheres of Ag2S in the dimers is along the [111] direction of the silver crystal; the light absorption properties have also been investigated. Furthermore, coupling or tripling of Ag2S/Ag heterodimers into dumbbell-like trimers ((Ag 2S)2/Ag, linear) and triangular tetramers ((Ag 2S)3/Ag, coplanar) can also be attained at 60°C by adding the bidentate ligand ethylenediamine as a cross-linking agent. To test the applicability of this highly asymmetric dipolar composite, photocatalytic inactivation of Escherichia coli K-12 in the presence of the as-prepared Ag 2S/Ag heterodimers has been carried out under UV irradiation. The added Ag2S/Ag heterodimers show good chemical stability under prolonged UV irradiation, and no appreciable solid dissolution is found. Possible mechanisms regarding the enhanced antibacterial activity have also been addressed. © 2010 American Chemical Society.

  15. The effect of the gas composition on hydrogen-assisted NH3-SCR over Ag/Al2O3

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Tamm, Stefanie; Fogel, Sebastian; Gabrielsson, Pär

    2013-01-01

    In addition to high activity in hydrocarbon-SCR, Ag/Al2O3 catalysts show excellent activity for NOx reduction for H2-assisted NH3-SCR already at 200°C. Here, we study the influence of different gas compositions on the activity of a pre-sulfated 6wt% Ag/Al2O3 catalyst for NOx reduction, and oxidat...

  16. Graphene oxide reinforced core-shell structured Ag@Cu2O with tunable hierarchical morphologies and their morphology-dependent electrocatalytic properties for bio-sensing applications.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gan, Tian; Wang, Zhikai; Shi, Zhaoxia; Zheng, Dongyun; Sun, Junyong; Liu, Yanming

    2018-07-30

    In this study, a facile solution approach was developed for the synthesis of a series of core-shell structured Ag@Cu 2 O nanocrystals of various shapes including triangles, spheres, and cubes with well-defined stable heterojunctions. The electrooxidation of dopamine (DA), uric acid (UA), guanine (G), and adenine (A) using these hybrids revealed morphology-dependent sensing properties, with activities and accumulation ability following the order, triangular Ag@Cu 2 O > spherical Ag@Cu 2 O > cubic Ag@Cu 2 O. Further, we constructed a novel graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet-reinforced triangular Ag@Cu 2 O ternary hetero-nanostructure. Such a hybrid with a three-dimensional interconnected hierarchical architecture is suitable for catalysis, since it not only leads to improved interfacial electron transfer, but also readily exposes the highly catalytic Ag@Cu 2 O to the reactants. Therefore, more enhanced electrochemical activities were observed for the oxidation of DA, UA, G, and A. This study provides an efficient way to synthesize morphology-controlled Ag@Cu 2 O heterogeneous catalysts for the fabrication of potential biosensors, and also opens up attractive avenues in the design of multifunctional ternary noble metal-semiconductor-carbon hybrids. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Performance of LiAlloy/Ag(2)CrO(4) Couples in Molten CsBr-LiBr-KBr Eutectic

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    GUIDOTTI, RONALD A.; REINHARDT, FREDERICK W.

    1999-01-01

    The performance of Li-alloy/CsBr-LiBr-KBr/Ag(sub 2)CrO(sub 4) systems was studied over a temperature range of 250 C to 300 C, for possible use as a power source for geothermal borehole applications. Single cells were discharged at current densities of 15.8 and 32.6 mA/cm(sup 2) using Li-Si and Li-Al anodes. When tested in 5-cell batteries, the Li-Si/CsBr-LiBr-KBr/Ag(sub 2)CrO(sub 4) system exhibited thermal runaway. Thermal analytical tests showed that the Ag(sub 2)CrO(sub 4) cathode reacted exothermically with the electrolyte on activation. Consequently, this system would not be practical for the envisioned geothermal borehole applications

  18. Plasmonic metamaterial-based chemical converted graphene/TiO2/Ag thin films by a simple spray pyrolysis technique

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kumar, Promod; Swart, H. C.

    2018-04-01

    Graphene based hybrid nanostructures have received special attention in both the scientific and technological development due to their unique physicochemical behavior, which make them attractive in various applications such as, batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells, solar cells, photovoltaic devices and bio-sensors. In the present study, the role of plasmonic metamaterials in light trapping photovoltaics for inorganic semiconducting materials by a simple and low cost spray pyrolysis technique has been studied. The plasmonic metamaterials thin film has been fabricated by depositing chemically converted graphene (CCG) onto TiO2-Ag nanoparticles which has a low resistivity and a low electron-hole recombination probability. The localized surface plasmon resonance at the metal-dielectric interface for the Ag nanoparticles has been observed at 403 nm after depositing chemical converted graphene (CCG) on the TiO2-Ag thin film. The results suggest that the stacking order of the CCG/TiO2/Ag plasmonic metamaterials samples did not change the band gap of TiO2 while it changed the conductivity of the film. Thus the diffusion of the noble metals in the glass and TiO2 matrices based thin films can trap the light of a particular wavelength by mean of plasmonic resonance and may be useful for superior photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications.

  19. Agency theory in a nonprofit organization Teoria de agência em uma organização sem fins lucrativos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ivan Luiz Ecco

    2010-10-01

    Full Text Available The aim of this paper is to analyze, based on the agency theory, the existence of agency conflicts in management by results in a professional education nonprofit organization. For the program, the case study method was used in a nonprofit professional education organization, located in the state of Santa Catarina. The study examined the contract between the Headquarters of the Organization (which represents in this study, according to theory of agency, the principal and its School Units (representing, the agents to accomplish goals. The results show that the asymmetry of information and organizational culture are factors that contribute to the problem of agency and the determination of an optimal contract should take into consideration such situations. The main conclusion is that agency problems are also present in nonprofit organizations, even when an instrument for the management by results is implemented.O objetivo deste artigo é analisar, à luz da teoria da agência, a existência de conflitos de agência, em uma gestão por resultados, de uma organização educacional sem fins lucrativos. Para sua realização utilizou-se o método de estudo de caso em uma organização de educação profissional sem fins lucrativos, situada no Estado de Santa Catarina. O estudo analisou o contrato celebrado entre a Sede da Organização (que representa neste estudo, segundo a teoria da agência, o principal e suas Unidades Escolares (consideradas os agentes para o cumprimento de metas. Os resultados demonstram que a assimetria de informação e a cultura organizacional são fatores quecontribuem para que o problema de agência ocorra e a determinação de um contrato ótimo deveria levar em consideração tais situações. A principal conclusão é de que os problemas de agência também estão presentes nas organizações sem fins lucrativos, mesmo quando se implanta um instrumento para realizar a gestão por resultados.

  20. Dual Functional Core-Shell Fluorescent Ag2S@Carbon Nanostructure for Selective Assay of E. coli O157:H7 and Bactericidal Treatment.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Ning; Wei, Xing; Zheng, An-Qi; Yang, Ting; Chen, Ming-Li; Wang, Jian-Hua

    2017-03-24

    A dual functional fluorescent core-shell Ag 2 S@Carbon nanostructure is prepared by a hydrothermally assisted multi-amino synthesis approach with folic acid (FA), polyethylenimine (PEI), and mannoses (Mans) as carbon and nitrogen sources (FA-PEI-Mans-Ag 2 S nanocomposite shortly as Ag 2 S@C). The nanostructure exhibits strong fluorescent emission at λ ex /λ em = 340/450 nm with a quantum yield of 12.57 ± 0.52%. Ag 2 S@C is bound to E. coli O157:H7 via strong interaction with the Mans moiety in Ag 2 S@C with FimH proteins on the fimbriae tip in E. coli O157:H7. Fluorescence emission from Ag 2 S@C/E. coli conjugate is closely related to the content of E. coli O157:H7. Thus, a novel procedure for fluorescence assay of E. coli O157:H7 is developed, offering a detection limit of 330 cfu mL -1 . Meanwhile, the Ag 2 S@C nanostructure exhibits excellent antibacterial performance against E. coli O157:H7. A 99.9% sterilization rate can be readily achieved for E. coli O157:H7 at a concentration of 10 6 -10 7 cfu mL -1 with 3.3 or 10 μg mL -1 of Ag 2 S@C with an interaction time of 5 or 0.5 min, respectively.

  1. Improvement in the properties of Ag-doped YBa2Cu3O7-x grain boundary Josephson junctions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bolanos, G.; Baca, E.; Osorio, J.; Prieto, P.

    2000-01-01

    Ag-doped YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x (YBCO) thin films using 5 to 20 wt% Ag-doped YBCO targets have been grown by a DC sputtering technique on SrTiO 3 bicrystals. Critical currents of 4 to 5 x 10 6 A/cm 2 at 77 K were measured in YBCO films doped with 5 wt% Ag which has been found to be higher than the value of 1 x 10 6 A/cm 2 measured in undoped samples. The normal resistivity decreases by a doping of 5 wt% Ag and increases for higher Ag concentrations. The critical temperature, T c , of the Ag-YBCO films remained unchanged at 92 K as in the undoped YBCO samples. An I c R n product of 170 μV at 77 K was found in grain boundary Josephson junctions (GBJJs) with 5 wt% Ag, compared with the value of 100 μV measured in undoped samples at the same temperature. Current-voltage characteristics were measured in GBJJs, showing Shapiro steps under microwave radiation and Fraunhofer patterns with an external magnetic field. The improvement in the normal and superconducting properties of Ag-doped YBCO films has been interpreted using the De Genes model to establish that YBCO containing metallic Ag addition shows a superconductor-normal metal-superconductor (S-N-S) behavior, thereby the Ag-doping enhances the weak link behavior and is, therefore, appropriate for electronic applications. (orig.)

  2. AgI/Ag3PO4 hybrids with highly efficient visible-light driven photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Katsumata, Hideyuki; Hayashi, Takahiro; Taniguchi, Masanao; Suzuki, Tohru; Kaneco, Satoshi

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 hybrid was prepared via an in situ anion-exchange method. • AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 displays the excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light. • AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 readily transforms to be Ag@AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 system. • h + and O 2 ·− play the major role in the AO 7 decolorization over AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 . • The activity enhancement is ascribed to a Z-scheme system composed of Ag 3 PO 4 , Ag and AgI. - Abstract: Highly efficient visible-light-driven AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 hybrid photocatalysts with different mole ratios of AgI were prepared via an in situ anion-exchange method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) technique. Under visible light irradiation (>420 nm), the AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 photocatalysts displayed the higher photocatalytic activity than pure Ag 3 PO 4 and AgI for the decolorization of acid orange 7 (AO 7). Among the hybrid photocatalysts, AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 with 80% of AgI exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity for the decolorization of AO 7. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results revealed that AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 readily transformed to be Ag@AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 system while the photocatalytic activity of AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 remained after 5 recycling runs. In addition, the quenching effects of different scavengers displayed that the reactive h + and O 2 ·− play the major role in the AO 7 decolorization. The photocatalytic activity enhancement of AgI/Ag 3 PO 4 hybrids can be ascribed to the efficient separation of electron–hole pairs through a Z-scheme system composed of Ag 3 PO 4 , Ag and AgI, in which Ag nanoparticles act as the charge separation center

  3. Synthesis of Ag2O nanocrystals with systematic shape evolution from cubic to hexapod structures and their surface properties.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lyu, Lian-Ming; Wang, Wei-Ching; Huang, Michael H

    2010-12-17

    We report the development of a facile method for the synthesis of Ag(2)O crystals with systematic shape evolution from cubic to edge- and corner-truncated cubic, rhombicuboctahedral, edge- and corner-truncated octahedral, octahedral, and hexapod structures by mixing AgNO(3), NH(4)NO(3), and NaOH at molar ratios of 1:2:11.8. A sufficient volume of NaOH solution was first added to a mixture of AgNO(3) and NH(4)NO(3) solution to promote the formation of Ag(NH(3))(2)(+) complex ions and the growth of Ag(2)O nanocrystals with good morphological control. The crystals are mostly submicrometer-sized. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy characterization has been performed to determine the crystalline surface facets. A band gap value of approximately 1.45 eV has been found for the octahedral Ag(2)O crystals. By changing the molar ratios of AgNO(3)/NH(4)NO(3)/NaOH to 1:2:41.8, corner-depressed rhombicuboctahedra and elongated hexapods were obtained as a result of enhanced crystal growth along the [100] directions. Smaller nanocubes with average sizes of approximately 200 and 300 nm and octapods can also be prepared by adjusting the reagent molar ratios and their added volumes. Both the octahedra and hexapods with largely silver atom-terminated {111} surface facets responded repulsively and moved to the surface of the solution when dispersing in a solution of positively charged methylene blue, but can be suspended in a negatively charged methyl orange solution. The cubes and octapods, bounded by the {100} faces, were insensitive to the molecular charges in solution. The dramatic facet-dependent surface properties of Ag(2)O crystals have been demonstrated.

  4. Promotion effect of H2 on ethanol oxidation and NOx reduction with ethanol over Ag/Al2O3 catalyst.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yu, Yunbo; Li, Yi; Zhang, Xiuli; Deng, Hua; He, Hong; Li, Yuyang

    2015-01-06

    The catalytic partial oxidation of ethanol and selective catalytic reduction of NOx with ethanol (ethanol-SCR) over Ag/Al2O3 were studied using synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photoionization mass spectrometry (PIMS). The intermediates were identified by PIMS and their photoionization efficiency (PIE) spectra. The results indicate that H2 promotes the partial oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde over Ag/Al2O3, while the simultaneously occurring processes of dehydration and dehydrogenation were inhibited. H2 addition favors the formation of ammonia during ethanol-SCR over Ag/Al2O3, the occurrence of which creates an effective pathway for NOx reduction by direct reaction with NH3. Simultaneously, the enhancement of the formation of ammonia benefits its reaction with surface enolic species, resulting in producing -NCO species again, leading to enhancement of ethanol-SCR over Ag/Al2O3 by H2. Using VUV-PIMS, the reactive vinyloxy radical was observed in the gas phase during the NOx reduction by ethanol for the first time, particularly in the presence of H2. Identification of such a reaction occurring in the gas phase may be crucial for understanding the reaction pathway of HC-SCR over Ag/Al2O3.

  5. Enhancing hybrid direct carbon fuel cell anode performance using Ag2O

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Deleebeeck, Lisa; Ippolito, Davide; Kammer Hansen, Kent

    2015-01-01

    A hybrid-direct carbon fuel cell (HDCFC), consisting of a molten slurry of solid carbon black and (Li-K)2CO3 added to the anode chamber of a solid oxide fuel cell, was characterized using current-potential-power density curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. Two...... types of experimental setups were employed in this study, an anode-supported full cell configuration (two electrodes, two atmospheres setup) and a 3-electrode electrolyte-supported half-cell setup (single atmosphere). Anode processes with and without catalysts were investigated as a function...... of temperature (700-800 °C) and anode sweep gas (N2, 4-100% CO2 in N2-CO2). It was shown that the addition of silver based catalysts (Ag, Ag2O, Ag2CO3) into the carbon-carbonate slurry enhanced the performance of the HDCFC....

  6. Weighting the influence of TiO{sub 2} anatase/brookite ratio in TiO{sub 2}–Ag porous nanocomposites on visible photocatalytic performances

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Iancu, V. [Babes-Bolyai University, Faculty of Physics and Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, 400084 Cluj-Napoca (Romania); Baia, M., E-mail: monica.baia@phys.ubbcluj.ro [Babes-Bolyai University, Faculty of Physics and Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, 400084 Cluj-Napoca (Romania); Diamandescu, L. [National Institute of Materials Physics, P.O. Box MG-7, 77125 Bucharest-Magurele (Romania); Pap, Zs. [Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Arany Janos 11, 400028 Cluj-Napoca (Romania); Research Group of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt. 103, H-6720 Szeged (Hungary); Vlaicu, A.M. [National Institute of Materials Physics, P.O. Box MG-7, 77125 Bucharest-Magurele (Romania); Danciu, V. [Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Arany Janos 11, 400028 Cluj-Napoca (Romania); Baia, L. [Babes-Bolyai University, Faculty of Physics and Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, 400084 Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

    2013-08-15

    Nanocomposites based on TiO{sub 2} aerogel and Ag nanoparticles have been successfully obtained through different synthesis methods and their specific surface areas have been determined by N{sub 2} sorption (BET method). The photocatalytic potential for salicylic acid degradation has been evaluated. It was found that under visible light irradiation, all synthesized nanocomposites exhibit higher photocatalytic activity than the commercially available Aeroxide P25. By correlating the structural parameters with the photocatalytic performances, it has been found that the Ag nanoparticles and brookite phase presence alongside the anatase play important roles on the visible photocatalysts behavior. For the Ag containing samples with mixed anatase–brookite phases, it has been observed that the visible photocatalytic performance decreases with the increase in brookite crystalline phase content. On the other hand, the addition of Ag nanoparticles results, as expected, in a clear enhancement of the visible photocatalytic activity. - Graphical abstract: Display Omitted - Highlights: • Synthesis of composites based on TiO{sub 2} aerogel and Ag nanoparticles. • Existence of mixed crystalline structure consisting of brookite and anatase phases. • Composites visible photocatalytic activity reduces as brookite phase content raises. • Ag nanoparticles addition enhances the visible photocatalytic activity.

  7. SERS active Ag encapsulated Fe@SiO2 nanorods in electromagnetic wave absorption and crystal violet detection.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Senapati, Samarpita; Srivastava, Suneel Kumar; Singh, Shiv Brat; Kulkarni, Ajit R

    2014-11-01

    The present work is focused on the preparation of Fe nanorods by the chemical reduction of FeCl3 (aq) using NaBH4 in the presence of glycerol as template followed by annealing of the product at 500°C in the presence of H2 gas flow. Subsequently, its surface has been modified by silica followed by silver nanoparticles to form silica coated Fe (Fe@SiO2) and Ag encapsulated Fe@SiO2 nanostructure employing the Stöber method and silver mirror reaction respectively. XRD pattern of the products confirmed the formation of bcc phase of iron and fcc phase of silver, though silica remained amorphous. FESEM images established the growth of iron nanorods from the annealed product and also formation of silica and silver coating on its surface. The appearance of the characteristics bands in FTIR confirmed the presence of SiO2 on the Fe surface. Magnetic measurements at room temperature indicated the ferromagnetic behavior of as prepared iron nanorods, Fe@SiO2 and silver encapsulated Fe@SiO2 nanostructures. All the samples exhibited strong microwave absorption property in the high frequency range (10GHz), though it is superior for Ag encapsulated Fe@SiO2 (-14.7dB) compared with Fe@SiO2 (-9.7dB) nanostructures of the same thickness. The synthesized Ag encapsulated Fe@SiO2 nanostructure also exhibited the SERS phenomena, which is useful in the detection of the carcinogenic dye crystal violet (CV) upto the concentration of 10(-10)M. All these findings clearly demonstrate that the Ag encapsulated Fe@SiO2 nanostructure could efficiently be used in the environmental remediation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Visible-light photoactivity of plasmonic silver supported on mesoporous TiO2 nanoparticles (Ag-MTN) for enhanced degradation of 2-chlorophenol: Limitation of Ag-Ti interaction

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jaafar, N. F.; Jalil, A. A.; Triwahyono, S.

    2017-01-01

    Various weight loadings of Ag (1-10 wt.%) were introduced to mesoporous titania nanoparticles (MTN) via a direct in-situ electrochemical method. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, surface area analysis, FTIR, ESR, FESEM-EDX and TEM. Characterization results indicated that the introduction of Ag onto MTN decreased the particles size and band gap of the MTN while increasing the number of oxygen vacancies (OV) and Ti3+ site defects (TSD). The activity performance of Ag-MTN on photodegradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) under visible light irradiation was in the following order: 5 wt% Ag-MTN> 1 wt% Ag-MTN > MTN > 10 wt% Ag-MTN, with degradation percentages of 97, 88, 80 and 63%, respectively. The synergistic effect between Ag0 and MTN seemed to play an important role in the system. The Ag0 acted as both an electron trap and a plasmonic sensitizer which suppressed the electron-hole recombination, while OV and TSD in the MTN accelerated the production of hydroxyl radicals for enhanced degradation of 2-CP. However, the formation of Ti-O-Ag in 10 wt% Ag-MTN was found to decrease the photoactivity due to the decrease in the formation of Ag0, TSD and OV as well as the increase in band gap energy. The photodegradation of 5 wt% Ag-MTN followed a pseudo-first-order Langmuir- Hinshelwood model and the catalyst was still stable after five cycles.

  9. Construction of AgBr nano-cakes decorated Ti3+ self-doped TiO2 nanorods/nanosheets photoelectrode and its enhanced visible light driven photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical properties

    Science.gov (United States)

    Deng, Xiaoyong; Zhang, Huixuan; Guo, Ruonan; Cheng, Xiuwen; Cheng, Qingfeng

    2018-05-01

    In the study, AgBr nano-cakes decorated Ti3+ self-doped TiO2 nanorods/nanosheets (AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs) photoelectrode with enhanced visible light driven photocatalytic (PC) and photoelectrochemical (PECH) performance has been successfully fabricated by hydrothermal reaction, followed by sodium borohydride reduction and then successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) treatment. Afterwards, series of characterizations were conducted to study the physicochemical properties of AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs photoelectrode. Results indicated that AgBr nano-cakes with sizes varying from 110 to 180 nm were uniformly decorated on the surface of Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs to form AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs photoelectrode. Moreover, PC activity of AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs photoelectrode was measured by degradation of methylene blue (MB). It was found that AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs photoelectrode exhibited higher PC activity (98.7%) than that of other samples within 150 min visible light illumination, owing to the enhancement of visible light harvesting and effective separation of photoproduced charges. Thus, AgBr nano-cakes and Ti3+ exerted a huge influence on the PC and PECH properties of AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs photoelectrode. Furthermore, the possible enhanced visible light driven PC mechanism of AgBr-Ti3+/TiO2 NRs/NSs was proposed and confirmed.

  10. Fast preparation of Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes via a microwave-hydrothermal process and enhanced photocatalytic activity after loading with Ag nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Zhao-Qian; Lin, Xin-Shan; Zhang, Lei; Chen, Xue-Tai; Xue, Zi-Ling

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► Bi 2 GeO 5 nanoflakes were successfully synthesized via a microwave-assisted solution-phase approach. ► Ag nanoparticles were deposited on the Bi 2 GeO 5 nanoflakes by a photoreduction procedure. ► Catalytic activity of the Ag/Bi 2 GeO 5 nanocomposite in the photo-degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) was much higher than that of pure Bi 2 GeO 5 . -- Abstract: In this work, a facile and rapid microwave-assisted hydrothermal route has been developed to prepare Bi 2 GeO 5 nanoflakes. Ag nanoparticles were subsequently deposited on the Bi 2 GeO 5 nanoflakes by a photoreduction procedure. The phases and morphologies of the products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Photocatalytic experiments indicate that such Ag/Bi 2 GeO 5 nanocomposite possesses higher photocatalytic activity for RhB degradation under UV light irradiation in comparison to pure Bi 2 GeO 5 . The amount of Ag in the nanocomposite affects the catalytic activity, and 3 wt% Ag showed the highest photodegradation efficiency. Moreover, the catalyst remains active after four consecutive tests. The present study provides a new strategy to design composite materials with enhanced photocatalytic activity.

  11. Preparation of Ag4Bi2O5/MnO2 Corn/Cob Like Nano Material as a Superior Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Solution

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xun Zeng

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available Ag4Bi2O5/MnO2 nano-sized material was synthesized by a co-precipitation method in concentrated KOH solution. The morphology characterization indicates that MnO2 nanoparticles with a size of 20 nm are precipitated on the surface of nano Ag4Bi2O5, forming a structure like corn on the cob. The obtained material with 60% Mn offers slightly higher initial potential (0.098 V vs. Hg/HgO and limiting current density (−5.67 mA cm−2 at a rotating speed of 1600 rpm compared to commercial Pt/C (−0.047 V and −5.35 mA cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, the obtained material exhibits superior long-term durability and stronger methanol tolerance than commercial Pt/C. The remarkable features suggest that the Ag4Bi2O5/MnO2 nano-material is a very promising oxygen reduction reaction catalyst.

  12. Composite cathode La0.15Bi0.85O1.5-Ag for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gao Zhan; Mao Zongqiang; Huang Jianbing; Gao Ruifeng; Wang Cheng; Liu Zhixiang

    2008-01-01

    Composites consisting of silver and lanthanum stabilized bismuth oxide (La 0.15 Bi 0.85 O 1.5 ) were investigated as cathodes for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells with doped ceria as electrolyte. No stable phases were formed via reaction between La 0.15 Bi 0.85 O 1.5 and Ag. The microstructure of the interfaces between composite cathodes and Ce 0.8 Sm 0.2 O 1.5 electrolytes was studied by scanning electron microscopy after sintering at various temperatures. Impedance spectroscopy measurements revealed that the performance of cathode fired at 700 deg. C was the best. When the optimum fraction of Ag was 50 vol.%, polarization resistance values for the LSB-Ag50 cathode were as low as 0.14 Ω cm 2 at 700 deg. C and 0.18 Ω cm 2 at 650 deg. C. The steady-state polarization investigations on LSB and LSB-Ag50 cathodes were performed using typical three-electrode test cells in air. The results showed that the LSB-Ag50 composite cathode exhibited a lower overpotential and higher exchange current density than LSB, which indicated the electrochemical performance of LSB-Ag50 for the oxygen reduction reaction was superior to the LSB

  13. A Ag synchronously deposited and doped TiO2 hybrid as an ultrasensitive SERS substrate: a multifunctional platform for SERS detection and photocatalytic degradation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Libin; Sang, Qinqin; Du, Juan; Yang, Ming; Li, Xiuling; Shen, Yu; Han, Xiaoxia; Jiang, Xin; Zhao, Bing

    2018-06-06

    Ag simultaneously deposited and doped TiO2 (Ag-TiO2) hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared via a sol-hydrothermal method, as both a sensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate and a superior photocatalyst for the first time. Ag-TiO2 hybrid NPs exhibit excellent SERS performance for several probe molecules and the enhancement factor is calculated to be 1.86 × 105. The detection limit of the 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4-MBA) probe on the Ag-TiO2 substrate is 1 × 10-9 mol L-1, which is four orders of magnitude lower than that on pure TiO2 as a consequence of the synergistic effects of TiO2 and Ag. This is the highest SERS sensitivity among the reported semiconductor substrates and even comparable to noble metal substrates, and a SERS enhancement mechanism from the synergistic contribution of the semiconductor and noble metal was proposed. And importantly, the Ag-TiO2 hybrid shows excellent photocatalytic degradation activity for the detected species under UV light irradiation at lower concentration conditions, even for the hard to degrade 4-MBA molecule. This makes the Ag-TiO2 hybrid promising as a dual-function platform for both highly sensitive SERS detection and photocatalytic degradation of a pollutant system. Moreover, it also proves that the Ag-TiO2 hybrid can serve as a promising recyclable SERS-active substrate by virtue of its photocatalytic self-cleaning properties for some specific applications, for instance comparative studies of different species on the same SERS platform, in addition to the economic benefit.

  14. Surface plasmon resonance induced reduction of high quality Ag/graphene composite at water/toluene phase for reduction of H2O2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Fengjun; Zhang Kehua; Xie Fazhi; Liu Jin; Dong Hongfei; Zhao Wei; Meng Zeda

    2013-01-01

    Highlights: ► The Ag/graphene composites have been successfully synthesized in two-phase solvent. ► The surface plasmon resonance of Ag can reduce GO with high deoxygenation and low defect. ► The Ag particles were uniformly distributed on graphene surface. ► The Ag/graphene composites obtained show high superior electrical properties for reduction of H 2 O 2 . - Abstract: Surface plasmon resonance induced synthesis of Ag/graphene composites from Ag/graphene oxide (Ag/GO) in a two-phase (water–toluene) solvent was reported. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results revealed that the Ag nanoparticles with size of 5–8 nm were trimly distributed on reduced graphene oxide sheets. Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) have demonstrated low defect density and high deoxygenation degree of graphene in Ag/graphene composite. The excellent structure and morphology of Ag/graphene composites contributed to superior electrical properties for reduction of H 2 O 2 .

  15. Efficient degradation of tetrabromobisphenol A by heterostructured Ag/Bi5Nb3O15 material under the simulated sunlight irradiation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Guo, Yingna; Chen, Ling; Ma, Fengyan; Zhang, Shengqu; Yang, Yuxin; Yuan, Xing; Guo, Yihang

    2011-01-01

    Heterostructured metallic silver-layered bismuth niobate two-component system (Ag/Bi 5 Nb 3 O 15 ) was developed for the first time by a mild hydrothermal method combined with photodeposition. The Ag/Bi 5 Nb 3 O 15 exhibited single-crystalline orthorhombic structure with small particle size (50-200 nm) and octahedral as well as sheet-like shape; additionally, it possessed photoresponse in both UV and visible region. As a novel alternative photocatalysts to TiO 2 , the photocatalytic activity of the Ag/Bi 5 Nb 3 O 15 was evaluated by the degradation of tetrabromobisphenol A, a member from the family of the brominated flame retardant, under solar simulating Xe lamp irradiation, and enhanced photocatalytic activity in compared to Bi 5 Nb 3 O 15 itself and Degussa P25 was obtained.

  16. High-temperature deformation of YBa2Cu3O7-δ with Ag additions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Routbort, J.L.; Goretta, K.C.; Singh, J.P.

    1990-01-01

    The steady-state flow stress of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ containing 15 to 30 vol.% Ag has been measured in air at nearly constant compressive strain rates between 5 x 10 -6 and 1 x 10 -4 s -1 from 830 to 900 degrees C. Addition of Ag dramatically decreases the flow stress compared to that of the pure superconductor, but the stress exponents and the activation energy for deformation remain unchanged

  17. Effective Electron Transfer Pathway of the Ternary TiO2/RGO/Ag Nanocomposite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hongwei Tian

    2017-05-01

    Full Text Available Mesoporous TiO2/reduced graphene oxide/Ag (TiO2/RGO/Ag ternary nanocomposite with an effective electron transfer pathway is obtained by an electrostatic self-assembly method and photo-assisted treatment. Compared with bare mesoporous TiO2 (MT and mesoporous TiO2/RGO (MTG, the ternary mesoporous TiO2/RGO/Ag (MTGA nanocomposite exhibited superior photocatalytic performance for the degradation of methylene blue (MB under visible light, and the degradation rate reached 0.017 min−1, which was 3.4-times higher than that of MTG. What is more, the degradation rate of MTGA nanocomposite after three cycle times is 91.2%, and the composition is unchanged. In addition, we found that the OH•, h+ and especially O2•− contribute to the high photocatalytic activity of MTGA for MB degradation. It is proposed that Ag nanoparticles can form the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR to absorb the visible light and distract the electrons into MT, and RGO can accept the electrons from MT to accelerate the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers. The establishment of MTGA ternary nanocomposite makes the three components act synergistically to enhance the photocatalytic performance.

  18. Slow voltage oscillations in Ag-doped superconducting Y-Ba-Cu-O

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Altinkok, A. [Abant Izzet Baysal University, Department of Physics, Turgut Gulez Research Laboratory, 14280 Bolu (Turkey)], E-mail: altinkok_a@ibu.edu.tr; Yetis, H.; Kilic, K.; Kilic, A.; Olutas, M. [Abant Izzet Baysal University, Department of Physics, Turgut Gulez Research Laboratory, 14280 Bolu (Turkey)

    2008-09-15

    The time effects in Ag-doped YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-x} sample (YBCO/Ag) were examined by means of transport relaxation measurements (V-t curves). At well-defined values of transport current (I), temperature (T) and external magnetic field (H), an abrupt rise in sample voltage was observed at the early stage of the relaxation process. After reducing the initial current to a finite value, the sample voltage levels off within a very short time. The rapid voltage drops seen in V-t curves were attributed to the rapid dynamic reorganization of flux lines traversing the sample edges. These observations were also interpreted as an indication of doping of YBCO with Ag and easy suppression of superconducting order parameter due to the presence of Ag. In addition, we investigated the influence of bidirectional square wave (BSW) current on the evolution of V-t curves at different temperatures and external magnetic fields. It was observed that a nonlinear response seen in V-t curves to BSW current with sufficiently short periods or sufficiently low amplitude reflects itself as regular sinusoidal- type voltage oscillations, which were discussed mainly in terms of the dynamic competition between pinning and depinning.

  19. Ag doped (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ textured rods

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Díez, J. C.

    2008-06-01

    Full Text Available In this work, superconducting samples of (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ with Ag additions have been studied. (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ + x wt.% Ag (with x = 0, 1 and 3 powders were synthesized using a sol-gel method. The obtained powders were used as precursors to fabricate long textured cylindrical bars through a floating zone melting method. A drastic change on the microstructure has been found when comparing with undoped Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ samples. The results showed that electrical resistivity at room temperature, critical current as well as flexural strength are improved when Ag is added to these Pb doped samples, while critical temperature does not change. On the other hand, it has been found that samples with composition (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ + Ag shown E-I curves with very high sharpness values on the zone of the superconducting to normal transition, reaching n-values (E∼In as high as 45 at 65K.Se han preparado polvos cerámicos de composición (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ + x % Ag en peso (con x = 0, 1 y 3 mediante un proceso sol-gel. Estos polvos se han utilizado para fabricar precursores que se texturaron por medio del método de fusión zonal flotante. Se ha encontrado un gran cambio en la microestructura cuando se compara con muestras de composición pura Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ. Tanto la resistividad eléctrica a temperatura ambiente, como la corriente crítica, así como la resistencia a flexión se mejoran cuando la Ag se adiciona a estas muestras dopadas con Pb, mientras que no se observa cambio en la temperatura crítica. Por otra parte, se ha encontrado que las muestras de composición (Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2CaCu2O8+δ + Ag presentan una gran pendiente de la curva E-I en la zona de transición entre el estado superconductor y el estado normal. Con estas composiciones, se han encontrado valores de n (E∼In de hasta 45 a 65K.

  20. Synthesis and characterization of Zn(O,OH)S and AgInS2 layers to be used in thin film solar cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vallejo, W.; Arredondo, C. A.; Gordillo, G.

    2010-11-01

    In this paper AgInS2 and Zn(O,OH)S thin films were synthesized and characterized. AgInS2 layers were grown by co-evaporation from metal precursors in a two-step process, and, Zn(O,OH)S thin films were deposited from chemical bath containing thiourea, zinc acetate, sodium citrate and ammonia. X-ray diffraction measurements indicated that AgInS2 thin films grown with chalcopyrite structure, and the as-grown Zn(O,OH)S thin films were polycrystalline. It was also found that the AgInS2 films presented p-type conductivity, a high absorption coefficient (greater than 104 cm-1) and energy band-gap Eg of about 1.95 eV, Zn(O,OH),S thin films presented Eg of about 3.89 eV. Morphological analysis showed that under this synthesis conditions Zn(O,OH),S thin films coated uniformly the absorber layer. Additionally, the Zn(O,OH)S kinetic growth on AgInS2 layer was studied also. Finally, the results suggest that these layers possibly could be used in one-junction solar cells and/or as top cell in a tandem solar cell.