Theoretical exploration of third-order nonlinear optical properties of black phosphorus quantum dots doped with alkali and alkaline-earth metal atoms

Cation-lone Pair Interaction in Alkali/Alkaline Earth Metal Ion-Heavier Borazine Analogue Complexes

The present study is the first report on the formation of alkali/alkaline earth metal ion-heavier borazine analogue complexes via cation-lone pair interaction. Density functional calculations are performed in scrutinizing the complex formation between alkali (Li+, Na+, K+)/alkaline earth (Be2+, Mg2+, Ca2+) metal ions and heavier borazine analogues (HBA) viz. B3P3H6, Al3N3H6, Al3P3H6, Al3As3H6, and Ga3P3H6. The complexes are found to be stable in gas phase with stabilization energies within the range 26.40-324.74 kcal mol-1. The stability can be attributed to the polarizing power of the involved metal ions. Presence of solvent phase exerted notable impact on the stability of the complexes; stability is reduced significantly with the increase in solvent polarity. The process of complexation is exothermic and spontaneous. QTAIM analysis indicated the presence of both ionic and covalent interaction between HBAs and metal ions. HOMO energy, Wiberg bond index, NCI-isosurface and RDG plot analysis revealed the major role of cation-lone pair interaction in the complexation process.

Advances in Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots for Cancer Research: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications

In the past few years, there has been notable advancement in nanotechnology, leading to the development of new materials with potential uses in the medical field, especially in cancer diagnosis, imaging, and therapy. Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) are one of the emerging nanomaterials that have generated interest due to their unique properties and potential in biomedical applications. This review aims to give a detailed overview of how BPQDs are synthesized, characterized, and utilized. The synthesis methods of BPQDs are discussed, with a focus on obtaining size-controlled and high-quality BPQDs. Two main approaches, top-down exfoliation and bottom-up techniques, are described. Despite advancements in synthesis, there are challenges hindering the practical application of BPQDs, such as poor dispersion and short durability. To address these issues, techniques to enhance biocompatibility and reduce potential toxicity, such as surface modifications, are discussed. BPQDs have potential in bioimaging as they offer higher resolution and sensitivity compared with traditional imaging agents. Their small size and expansive surface area make them suitable for drug delivery systems, enabling the effective incorporation of therapeutic substances. By functionalizing BPQDs with targeting ligands, they can selectively bind to cancer cells or tissue, making them ideal for targeted therapies. Moreover, BPQDs can serve as biosensors to detect biomarkers in bodily fluids, further expanding their biomedical applications. However, before they can be successfully translated into clinical settings, further research is needed to optimize the synthesis methods of BPQDs and evaluate their long-term safety profiles. Nonetheless, with ongoing research and development, the medical uses of BPQDs are expected to expand.

Tuning the electronic and nonlinear optical properties of black phosphorus quantum dots by introducing electron-donating/withdrawing molecules (TTF/TCNQ)

Black phosphorous quantum dots can exhibit excellent nonlinear optical properties after adsorbing organic molecules (TTF and TCNQ).