Simple sonochemical synthesis, characterization of TmVO4 nanostructure in the presence of Schiff-base ligands and investigation of its potential in the removal of toxic dyes

Thulium vanadate (TmVO4) nanorods were successfully prepared by a simple sonochemical approach using Schiff-base ligands. Additionally, TmVO4 nanorods were employed as a photocatalyst. The most optimal crystal structure and morphology of TmVO4 have been determined and optimized by varying Schiff-base ligands, the molar ratio of H2Salen, the sonication time and power, and the calcination time. A Eriochrome Black T (EBT) analysis revealed that the specific surface area was 24.91 m2/g. A bandgap of 2.3 eV was determined by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) spectroscopy, which makes this compound suitable for visible photocatalytic applications. In order to assess the photocatalytic performance under visible light, two anionic dyes (EBT) and cationic dyes (Methyl Violet (MV)) were used as models. A variety of factors have been studied in order to improve the efficiency of the photocatalytic reaction, including dye type, pH, dye concentration, and catalyst loading. Under visible light, the highest efficiency was achieved (97.7%) when 45 mg TmVO4 nanocatalysts were present in 10 ppm Eriochorome Black T at pH = 10.

Investigation of the photocatalytic and optical properties of the SrMoO4/g-C3N4 heterostructure obtained via sonochemical synthesis with temperature control

In this work, nanomaterials of the SrMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ heterostructure were synthesized in a single step by the sonochemical method with controlled temperatures. Structural and morphological investigations indicate the formation of heterojunctions, revealing the presence of g-C₃N₄ (CN) in the heterostructures and an interface region between the phases. Optical analyzes show broadening of the wavelength absorption range and a decrease in the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of the heterojunctions compared to the CN emission spectrum, proving a decrease in the recombination of the photogenerated charges. The results of the photocatalytic tests indicate that the insertion of CN promoted photocatalytic degradation of the Methylene Blue (MB), Rhodamine B (RhB) and Crystal Violet (CV) organic contaminants, up to 99.58%, 100% and 98.65%, respectively. The mixture of dyes used and reuse cycles was performed to analyze the applicability of the compounds in a real situation.

Making salty cucumbers and honeyed apples by applying the sonochemical method

Sonochemistry was applied in the last few years for coating surfaces of various substrates for imparting desired properties to the surface. In the current paper the coating of cucumbers with NaCl nanoparticles and apples with honey nanoparticles was accomplished by applying the sonochemical method. In both coating the nanoparticles were deposited from aqueous solutions. The products were characterized by Inductively coupled plasma, Dynamic light scattering, Scanning electron microscopy, and Nuclear magnetic resonance.

Green and novel ultrasonic extraction with UHPLC-MSMS analysis of natural sweetener (Glycyrrhizic acid) from Glycyrrhiza glabra; a multifactorial mechanistic evaluation based on statistical analysis

A novel, green and eco-friendly, cost-effective, fast, and reliable high energy ultrasonication (US) extraction with UHPLC-MSMS (Ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry) quantification of Glycyrrhizic acid (GZA) is reported herein for the first time. The study provides useful insights regarding the effect of US-factors with statistical analysis and mechanisms, involved in GZA-extraction and analysis. An US-extraction method (US-MD) was developed using three levels of US factors: solvents (AC (acetone), EtOH (ethanol), H₂O (water)), time (1, 2, 3 min), amplitudes (30, 40, 50%), pulse (10/0.5, 20/0.5, 30/0.5 sec), particle sizes (0.5, 1, 1.4 mm), and temperatures (20, 30, 40 °C). The US-MD was further validated with high accuracy 98.96 ± 6.82 and r² = 0.995 whereas, an in-house analytical method (UHPLC-MSMS) was developed and validated to quantify the GZAamount. UHPLCMSMS-MD resulted in a retention time of 0.31 min with MSMS (821.400 > 351.200) in a 1 min run time whereas, UHPLCMSMS-MV showed high accuracy and precision with r² = 0.998 for GZA. Statistical analysis of K-mean clustering finalized US-set-of-factors showing optimum extract yield (mg/1mg) of 0.48 with sum (2.41 ± 014) and mean (0.27) along with a high GZA-amount (μg/mg) of 8.23 with sum (43.31 ± 2.07) and mean (4.81) for H₂O in 3 min at 40 °C using particle size (1.4 mm), amplitude (50%), and pulse (30/0.5). Large scale application of US-UHPLCMSMS confirmed the evaluation power of the method showing the order for GZA amount; Egypt > Pakistan > Syria > India > Palestine > America > Georgia > Morocco. A significant effect for US factors Vs extract yield and GZA amount was observed however, solvent*GZA-amount and extract yield*particle size were more significantly correlated compared to time*temperature*amplitude*pulse analyzed via PCA, GLM-UniANOVA, K-mean, and Pearson's correlation (P ≤ 0.05). A combined mechanism of shear stress, macroturbulence due to acoustic cavitation and implosions, sonochemical, and sonocapillary effect were noted for the US technique producing higher extract yield and GZA amount from licorice.

Power density modulated ultrasonic degradation of perfluoroalkyl substances with and without sparging Argon

The power density modulates the dynamics of the chemical reactions during the ultrasonic breakdown of organic compounds. We evaluated the ultrasonic degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) at various power densities (30 W/L-262 W/L) with and without sparging Argon. We observed pseudo-first-order degradation kinetics at an initial PFASs concentration of 100 nM over a range of power density. The rate kinetics of degradation shows a non-linear increase with an increase in power density. We proposed a four-parameter logistic regression (4PLR) equation that empirically fits the degradation rate kinetics with the power density. The 4PLR equation predicts that the maximum achievable half-life of PFOA and PFOS sonochemical degradation are 1 and 10 min under a given set of experimental conditions. The high bulk-water temperature (i.e., 30 °C) of the aqueous sample helps increase the degradation rate of PFOA and PFOS. The addition of oxidants such as iodate and chlorate help enhance PFOA degradation in an argon environment at an ultrasonic frequency of 575 kHz.

Contact lenses coated with hybrid multifunctional ternary nanocoatings (Phytomolecule-coated ZnO nanoparticles:Gallic Acid:Tobramycin) for the treatment of bacterial and fungal keratitis

Contact lenses are widely used for visual corrections. However, while wearing contact lenses, eyes typically face discomforts (itching, irritation, burning, etc.) due to foreign object sensation, lack of oxygen permeability, and tear film disruption as opposed to a lack of wetting agents. Eyes are also prone to ocular infections such as bacterial keratitis (BK) and fungal keratitis (FK) and inflammatory events such as contact lens-related acute red eye (CLARE), contact lens peripheral ulcer (CLPU), and infiltrative keratitis (IK) caused by pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains that contaminate contact lenses. Therefore, a good design of contact lenses should adequately address the need for wetting, the supply of antioxidants, and antifouling and antimicrobial efficacy. Here, we developed multifunctional gallic acid (GA), phytomolecules-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZN), and phytomolecules-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles + gallic acid + tobramycin (ZGT)-coated contact lenses using a sonochemical technique. The coated contact lenses exhibited significant antibacterial (>log₁₀ 5.60), antifungal, and antibiofilm performance against BK-causing multidrug resistant bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia. coli) and FK-related pathogenic fungal strains (Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Fusarium solani). The gallic acid, tobramycin, and phytomolecules-coated zinc oxide nanoparticles have different functionalities (-OH, -NH₂, -COOH, -COH, etc.) that enhanced wettability of the coated contact lenses as compared to that of uncoated ones and further enabled them to exhibit remarkable antifouling property by prohibiting adhesion of platelets and proteins. The coated contact lenses also showed significant antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH and good cytocompatibility to human corneal epithelial cells and keratinocytes cell lines. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: • Multifunctional coated lenses were developed with an efficient sonochemical approach. • Lens surface was modified with nanocoatings of ZnO nanoparticles, gallic acid, and tobramycin. • This synergistic combination endowed the lenses with remarkable antimicrobial activity. • Coated lenses also showed noteworthy antifouling and biofilm inhibition activities. • Coated lenses showed good antioxidant, biocompatibility, and wettability characteristics.

Comparison of currently available PFAS remediation technologies in water: A review

Remediation of Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the environment has rapidly increased due to growing concerns of environmental contamination and associated adverse toxicological effects on wildlife and humans due to bioaccumulation and extreme persistence. Although, PFASs are highly recalcitrant to conventional water treatment processes, there are some effective techniques available. Those techniques involve exceedingly high costs due to high energy use, and high capital or operational costs. Thus, most remediation techniques have limitations in field applications even though the laboratory scale experiments are promising. As a result of stringent new health and environmental regulatory standards are being established, development of suitable water treatment methodology is more challenging. Most of the separation and destruction techniques have their own limitations in field applications while the biological approaches to treat PFASs are extremely limited and are not currently considered as viable. In this review, extra consideration is given to novel advanced techniques for wide array of PFAS classes including short chain PFAS removal, and compare their efficiencies, effectiveness, energy use, sustainability, cost, and simplicity in laboratory scale to field applications. Electrochemical, sonochemical, advanced oxidation processers (AOPs) and plasma together with novel hybrid techniques are considered as effective approaches for PFASs removal and have shown promising results for long chain and some short chain PFASs, as well as extremely persistent per-fluoro alkyl acids (PFAAs). Therefore, it is essential to better understand the removal mechanisms to optimise the advanced treatment processes like hybrid techniques because, the unique physicochemical characteristics of various PFASs impose difficult challenges. Careful selection of a combined effective treatment methodology in an integrated processing unit, would be a revolutionary approach for complete elimination of PFASs from the environment. Considering the site-specific water quality parameters together with community perspectives will also make it more viable in real world field applications.

Potential of a sonochemical approach to generate MRI-PPT theranostic agents for breast cancer

The production of nanomaterials integrating diagnostic and therapeutic roles within one nanoplatform is important for medical applications. Such theranostics nanoplatforms could provide information on imaging, accurate diagnosis and, at the same time, could eradicate cancer cells. Fe₃O₄@Au core@shell nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@AuNPs) have gained broad attention due to their unique innovations in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photothermal therapy (PTT). Seed-mediated growth procedures were used to produce the Fe₃O₄@AuNPs. In these processes, complicated surface modifications, resulted in unsatisfactory properties. This work used the ability of the sonochemical approach to synthesize highly efficient theranostics agent Fe₃O₄@AuNPs with a size of approximately 22 nm in 5 min. The inner core of Fe₃O₄ acts as an MRI agent, whereas the photothermal effect stands accomplished by near-infrared absorption of the gold shell (Au shell), which results in the eradication of cancer cells. We have shown that Fe₃O₄@AuNPs have great biocompatibility and no major cytotoxicity has been identified. Relaxivity value (r₂) of synthesized Fe₃O₄@Au NPs, measured at 233 mM^-1s^-1, is significantly higher than those reported previously. The as-synthesized NPs have shown substantial photothermal ablation ability on MCF-7 in vitro under near-infrared laser irradiation. Consequently, Fe₃O₄@AuNPs synthesized in this study have great potential as an ideal candidate for MR imaging and PTT.

Sonochemical synthesis of graphitic carbon nitride-manganese oxide interfaces for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride

The present study focuses on the sonochemical synthesis of graphitic carbon nitride-manganese oxide (GCN/MnO₂) nanocomposite for photocatalytic degradation of an environmentally hazardous pharmaceutical compound, tetracycline hydrochloride (TcH). The sonochemical synthesis aided in tailoring the morphology of GCN/MnO₂. The characterization results of SEM/FESEM, XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis spectra, EIS, CV, etc., revealed on the morphology, composition, crystallinity, and other photo-electro-intrinsic properties of the materials. The synergy of GCN and MnO₂ results in rapid electron transfer, efficient visible-light absorption, and slower electron-hole pair recombination through its photo-responsive traits against TcH. It was noted that ~ 93% TcH (20 mg L^-1) degradation was achieved for 30-mg catalyst dose under light-emitting diode (LED) irradiation (9 W, 220 V) in 135-min duration. The TcH mineralization results were well fit to pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.02 min^-1 (R² = 0.994). In addition, the composite possessed fair reusability for consequent cycles. Hence, the as-synthesized composite applied for photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis fosters a fit-for-purpose and reliable system in the decontamination of TcH in environmental samples. Graphical Abstract.

Effect of sediment particle size on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon bioaccessibility and degradation by ultrasound

The effect of particle size on sonochemical desorption, degradation and change in bioaccessibility of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on contaminated sediments was investigated. Batch experiments were performed with the whole sediment (WS < 850 μm), a large size range fraction (150 μm < LSR < 850 μm), and a small size range fraction (SSR < 150 μm) of the whole sediment. PAH degradation followed pseudo first-order kinetics; PAHs on LSR sediments underwent more rapid degradation than on SSR and WS sediments (ν_PAH,LSR > ν_PAH,WS > ν_PAH,SSR). In addition, a higher sediment slurry concentration resulted in slower degradation of PAHs. Results are consistent with the more rapid particle size reduction of the LSR. More rapid particle size reduction and faster PAH degradation for the LSR fraction combined with analysis of particle velocities in both size ranges indicates that microjets as opposed to particle-particle collisions due to shockwaves are effective in rapid particle size reduction and PAH degradation. Moreover, the bioaccessible fraction (F_PAH,fast,t) of sorbed PAHs in both particle size fractions was found to increase with sonication time but was more rapid with the LSR. Likewise, the more tightly bound PAHs, those in the slow desorbing fraction (F_PAH,slow,t) of PAHs, decreased faster with sonication of LSR particles compared to SSR particles, consistent with the trend of particle size reduction. Results of this study suggest that ultrasonic treatment is more effective for larger size particle sediments, although sonication is also viable for small sediment sizes.

Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles: Sonochemical synthesis, characterization, and sonocatalytic application

Undoped and europium (III)-doped ZnO nanoparticles were prepared by a sonochemical method. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The crystalline sizes of undoped and 3% Eu-doped ZnO were found to be 16.04 and 8.22nm, respectively. The particle size of Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles was much smaller than that of pure ZnO. The synthesized nanocatalysts were used for the sonocatalytic degradation of Acid Red 17. Among the Eu-doped ZnO catalysts, 3% Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles showed the highest sonocatalytic activity. The effects of various parameters such as catalyst loading, initial dye concentration, pH, ultrasonic power, the effect of oxidizing agents, and the presence of anions were investigated. The produced intermediates of the sonocatalytic process were monitored by GC-Mass (GC-MS) spectrometry.

Facile sonochemical synthesis of Ag2O-guar gum nanocomposite as a visible light photocatalyst for the organic transformation reactions

Silver Oxide (Ag₂O)-Guar gum nanocomposite was fabricated via a simple sonochemical co-precipitation method. The obtained photocatalyst was characterized with various techniques such as X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy along with energy dispersion X-ray spectroscopy. The findings have demonstrated that Ag₂O nanoparticles are spherical of 5-20 nm and were dispersed on the surface of polysaccharide guar gum to form Ag₂O-guar gum nanocomposite. The as-synthesized nanocomposite was enacted as a competent photocatalyst for the reduction of nitrobenzene and oxidation of benzyl alchohol. The conversion efficiency for the reduction of nitrobenzene was 96 % with the addition of sodium borohydride, and the conversion of benzyl alcohol was 98 %. The highly efficient photocatalytic activity was due to the exceedingly dispersed Ag₂O-guar gum nanocomposite where effective separation rate of energy driven electron-hole pairs and stronger light absorption occurs. The possible mechanism of the reactions was implicated in understanding the active species involved in the photocatalytic study.

Sonochemical synthesis, characterization and application of PrVO4 nanostructures as an effective photocatalyst for discoloration of organic dye contaminants in wastewater

In the current research, various conventional chemical preparation methods without ultrasound aid (precipitation, microwave, and hydrothermal) were compared with sonochemical procedure and were performed for providing of PrVO₄ nanostructures using Schiff-base ligands. The small size products with monodisperse particles (~39 nm) optimized by sonochemical fabrication method and using H₂ acacpn ligand via ultrasonic probe with power of 60 W and frequency of 18 KHz. The produced PrVO₄ nanostructures applied for degradation of diverse organic dyes through the photocatalytic process. Dye types, pH adjusting of dye, dosage of catalyst, synthesis method of nanoparticles and light source as impressive factors inquired for dye removal ability. The outcomes presented the removal efficiency of Eriochorom Black T in optimal conditions of pH = 11 and the catalysts amounts of PrVO₄ were adjusted to be 0.05 g. The PrVO₄ photocatalyst shows high removal efficiency (ca 86.92 and 89.61%) after 90 min of operation under UV light. The best-obtained framework confirmed the basic study to compare different method in order to acquire suitable catalyst materials. The simple, fast and economic strategy for synthesis PrVO₄ with high photodegradation efficiency is sonochemical method against other ways, and it could be extended to the most efficient catalyst materials for water treatment. Consequently, the PrVO₄ may suggestion a hopeful avenue for designing the novel generation, low-cost and outstanding potential photocatalyst materials for water treatment.

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of 3D flower-like zinc oxide decorated fMWCNTs for sensitive detection of toxic environmental pollutant 4-nitrophenol

Sonochemical synthesis of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNTs) embellished 3D flower-like zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite based novel electrochemical sensor for the detection of toxic environmental pollutant 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) is detailed in this paper. We have used laser-assisted synthesis technique in the development of 3D flower-like ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and ultrasonication method was employed in preparation of ZnO NPs@fMWCNTs nanocomposite using a high-intensity ultrasonic bath DC200H with power of 200 W/cm² and 40 KHz frequency. The nanocomposite was meticulously fabricated on screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE) to carry out various electrochemical analysis. Different characterizations such as Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, UV visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) of the materials used in this work were taken. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) techniques are used in electrochemical investigations. We have observed well-defined oxidation and reduction peak currents representing electrochemical mechanism of 4-NP at very low potentials for ZnO NPs@fMWCNTs/SPCE. Furthermore, we were able to achieve efficient electrochemical determination of 4-NP using the developed sensor with a high sensitivity of 11.44 μA μM^-1 cm^-2 and very low detection limit (LOD) of 0.013 μM in a broad linear range of 0.06-100 μM. All the significant features of a good sensor including anti-interference, good stability, excellent repeatability, and reproducibility were exhibited by the sensor. Moreover, we have tested practical feasibility of sensor by carrying out real sample analysis on different water samples.

Sonochemical synthesis of iron-graphene oxide/honeycomb-like ZnO ternary nanohybrids for sensitive electrochemical detection of antipsychotic drug chlorpromazine

We report a novel electrochemical sensor for the sensitive and selective determination of the antipsychotic drug chlorpromazine (CPZ) based on the iron (Fe) nanoparticles-loaded graphene oxide (GO-Fe)/three dimensional (3D) honeycomb-like zinc oxide (ZnO) nanohybrid modified screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE). The 3D hierarchical honeycomb-like ZnO was synthesized using a novel aqueous hydrothermal method and the GO-Fe/ZnO nanohybrid was prepared based on an inexpensive and fast sonochemical method using a high-intensity ultrasonic bath (Delta DC200H, 200 W, 40 KHz). Characterizations including scanning electron microscopy, elemental mapping, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy were carried out as part of this work. The electrocatalytic oxidation behavior of CPZ at various electrodes was investigated using the cyclic voltammetry technique, through which the GO-Fe/ZnO modified SPCE was identified as the best performing electrode. The quantitative determination of CPZ was then performed using the differential pulse voltammetry technique. The as-prepared GO-Fe/ZnO/SPCE sensor exhibited a quick and sensitive response towards the oxidation of CPZ with linear concentration ranges from 0.02 to 172.74 μM and 222.48 to 1047.74 μM. The modified SPCE sensor displayed a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.02 µM and a high sensitivity of 7.56 µA µM^-1 cm^-2. The proposed sensor also showed remarkable operational and storage stability, reproducibility, and repeatability. Furthermore, the practicability of the GO-Fe/ZnO/SPCE sensor has been verified with real sample analysis using commercial antipsychotic CPZ tablets and human urine samples, and adequate recovery has been achieved.

Facile sonochemical-assisted synthesis of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 nanocomposites under vacuum: Optical and photocatalytic studies

This paper reports on the synthesis of Cu/ZnO/Al₂O₃ nanocomposites via a facile sonochemical-assisted approach using new starting reactants. This study was conducted to synthesis and photocatalytic evaluation of the Cu/ZnO/Al₂O₃ nanocomposite in vacuum conditions. The XRD results showed that Cu/ZnO/Al₂O₃ and CuO/ZnO/Al₂O₃ nanocomposites could be obtained after annealing at 600 °C for 3 h in vacuum conditions and in the air, respectively. The effects of Cu:Zn:Al ratio, ultrasonic irradiation, power, time, and capping agent on the product composition and morphology were also studied. Finally, the efficiency of various as-synthesized Cu/ZnO/Al₂O₃ nanocomposites for decolorization of methylene blue were evaluated. According to the results, using ultrasonic irradiation and annealing under vacuum, the efficiency is improved up to 100%. Because in this situation Cu/Cu₂O/ZnO/Al₂O₃ is formed, which has a better absorption (due to Cu₂O) and conductivity (due to Cu) than CuO/ZnO/Al₂O₃ for the photocatalysis process.

Sonochemical-assisted route for synthesis of spherical shaped holmium vanadate nanocatalyst for polluted waste water treatment

Solar photocatalytic process has been shown to be an energy effective and eco-friendly degradation of unwanted pollutants present in the industrial wastewater. The present study introduces the preparation and characterization of novel holmium vanadate (HoVO₄₎ nanostructures that fully used in the photodegradation efficiency of anionic and cationic organic pollutants. HoVO₄ synthesized via a sonochemical-assisted route and triethylenetetramine (TETA) was used as a capping and precipitation agent. The experiments were carried out under a probe as sonication source, and its power was adjusted in 30 W (9 kHz), 50 W (15 kHz) and 80 W (24 kHz) for different samples. The obtained nanostructures were characterized by surface analytical and spectral techniques includes XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM and UV-visible spectra measurements. The HR-SEM images reveal that HoVO₄ exists as a spindle-shape with spherical morphology together. HR-TEM images reveal that prepared catalyst has a spherical structure with uniform particle size. The results outline 67.6% elimination of methyl violet dye within 90 min under UV light in the presence of the optimal nano-sized formulation of 24.5 nm size. The prepared photocatalyst possesses high stability and reusability without appreciable loss of catalytic activity up to three runs.

Simple sonochemical synthesis of lanthanum tungstate (La2(WO4)3) nanoparticles as an enhanced electrocatalyst for the selective electrochemical determination of anti-scald-inhibitor diphenylamine

In this work, lanthanum tungstate (La₂(WO₄)₃) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by facile sonochemical method (elmasonic P, under-sonication 37/100 kHz, ~60 W energy) and utilized as an electrode material for the selective and sensitive electrochemical determination of anti-scald inhibitor diphenylamine (DPA). The synthesized La₂(WO₄)₃ NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. The results revealed that the sonochemically synthesized La₂(WO₄)₃ nanoparticles were with high crystallinity and uniformly distributed nanoparticles like structure. The as-prepared lanthanum tungstate NPs exhibited an excellent electrocatalytic behavior for DPA determination with the lowest detection limit of 0.0024 µM, wide linear range response of 0.01-58.06 µM and a remarkable sensitivity of 1.021 µA µM^-1 cm^-2. Furthermore, La₂(WO₄)₃ NPs showed a good recovery to DPA in apple juice sample. Besides, the electrochemical mechanism of the DPA oxidation reaction was provided in detail.

One-pot sonochemical synthesis of 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microsphere with enhanced photocatalytic activity

A highly uniform 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microsphere was prepared by sonochemical method with the existence of β-dextrin. The 3D flower-like hierarchical structure can be ascribed to the existence of β-dextrin, which provides nucleation sites for the growth of nanosheets because of the strong interaction between β-dextrin and Ag⁺. The 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microspheres were assembled by numerous interleaving nanosheet petals with small thickness. Benefiting from the unique structural features, the as-prepared 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microsphere exhibited higher degradation efficiency with degrading 98.17% of methylene blue (MB) and 88.50% of tetracycline (TC) within 40 min, which were both remarkably higher than those of irregular AgCl under visible light irradiation. Besides, the photocatalytic degradation rate constant of 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microsphere (0.063 min^-1) for MB was 3.94 times higher than that of irregular AgCl (0.016 min^-1). Moreover, a possible mechanism for the formation and excellent photocatalytic performance of 3D flower-like hierarchical AgCl microsphere was also proposed.

Ultrasonic energy-assisted preparation of β-cyclodextrin-carbon nanofiber composite: Application for electrochemical sensing of nitrofurantoin

A simple ultrasonic energy assisted synthesis of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) supported carbon nanofiber composite (CNF) and its potential application in electrochemical sensing of antibiotic nitrofurantoin (NFT) is reported. The elemental composition and surface morphology of the β-CD/CNF composite was validated through Field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The uniform enfolding of hydrophilic β-CD over CNF enhance the aqueous dispersion and offer abundant active surface to the β-CD/CNF composite. Further, the electrocatalytic efficacy of the β-CD/CNF composite is utilized to fabricate an electrochemical sensor for the high sensitive quantitative detection of NFT. Under optimized analytical conditions, the sensor displays a broad working range of 0.004-308 µM and calculated detection limit of 1.8 nM, respectively. In addition, the sensor showcased a good selectivity, storage, and working stability, with amiable reproducibility. The point-of-care applicability of the sensor was demonstrated with NFT spiked human blood serum and urine sample with reliable analytical performance. The simple, cost-effective NFT sensor based on β-CD/CNF offered outstanding analytical performance in real-world samples with higher reliability.

Sonochemically recovered silver oxide nanoparticles from the wastewater of photo film processing units as an electrode material for supercapacitor and sensing of 2, 4, 6-trichlorophenol in agricultural soil samples

The present work describes the sensing application and supercapacitive behavior of silver oxide nanoparticles recovered from wastewater of photo film processing units via one-pot green sonochemical recovery process. The recovered silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag₂O NPs) were characterized by spectral techniques such as FT-IR, Raman, UV-Vis and analytical tools such as XRD, FE-SEM, TEM, EDX, XPS and BET. In view of Ag₂O NPs as electrode material with wide technological applications, the recovered Ag₂O NPs were examined for their sensing and supercapacitive behavior. The developed sensor was explored to detect 2, 4, 6-trichlorophenol, and as expected it shows moral parameters which are required of an effective sensor. Therefore, it was exploited for the quantification of 2, 4, 6-trichlorophenol in soil samples from the agricultural area. Cyclic voltammetric (CV), Galvanostatic Charge-Discharge (GCD) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopic (EIS) studies on the recovered Ag₂O NPs coated Ni foam electrode depicted the pronounced capacitive behavior. The GCD studies revealed an enhanced electrochemical performance, particularly with the large specific capacitance of 530 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g. The cyclic stability of the electrode material was identified with 88% retention in specific capacitance even after 5000 GCD cycles. These results strongly proved that the recovered Ag₂O NPs are potential candidates for sensing and supercapacitor applications.

The sonochemical synthesis of vertically aligned ZnO nanorods and their UV photodetection properties: Effect of ZnO buffer layer

Vertically aligned Zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO NRs) were successfully synthesized in this study using the sonochemical method to improve the intrinsic properties of UV photodetector (PD). Three different thin films: Ti/Zn, Ti/ZnO, and Ti/ZnO/Zn, with the thicknesses of 10 nm/55 nm, 10 nm/85 nm, and 10 nm/85 nm/55 nm respectively, were deposited on glass substrates using the RF-sputtering technique. The synthesized ZnO NRs were investigated using XRD, FESEM and Raman spectroscopy to determine the effect of Zn and ZnO as seed layers, and ZnO as a buffer layer on the surface morphology, crystal structure, optical properties of ZnO NRs. The ZnO NRs grown on Zn/Ti, ZnO/Ti, and Zn/ZnO/Ti are characterized by hexagonal crystal structure with preferential growth in the c-axis direction. The ZnO NRs grown on Zn/ZnO/Ti displayed the highest density, uniform size distribution, vertically aligned rods and aspect ratio. The UV device fabricated from the ZnO NRs grown on Zn /ZnO/Ti also showed the highest photocurrent (360 µA) and responsivity of (878 mA/W). ZnO NRs grown on Zn/ZnO/Ti were also observed to be highly stable and exhibited a relatively rapid response and recovery times for different time intervals when exposed to the UV light of 365 nm wavelength. Thus, the inclusion of the ZnO as a buffer layer (Zn as a seed layer/ZnO as buffer layer/Ti as a buffer layer) improve the properties of the ZnO NRs. In addition, the current gain of ZnO NRs grown on Zn (55 nm)/ZnO (85 nm)/Ti (10 nm) - based ultraviolet (UV) photodetector (PD) is about two times higher than that of conventional Zn (55 nm)/ZnO (85 nm)/Ti (10 nm) thin-films UV PD, which is due to the higher surface-to-volume ratio of ZnO nanorods (NRs) compared with their thin films. This study confirms the possibility of sonochemically fabricating vertically aligned ZnO nanorods as well as its applicability as a viable UV photodetector.

Sonochemical fabrication of reduction-responsive magnetic starch-based microcapsules

In this work, a novel, biocompatible, non-immunogenic and reductive-responsive magnetic starch-based microcapsules (RMSMCs) were designed and fabricated successfully via a facile sonochemical method for targeted delivery and triggered release of hydrophobic drugs. TEM image indicated that oleic acid (OA) modified Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (OA-Fe₃O₄ NPs) were encapsulated into RMSMCs. The obtained RMSMCs were endowed with magnetism for drug targeted delivery because that the superparamagnetic OA-Fe₃O₄ NPs were encapsulated into RMSMCs. Moreover, Coumarin 6 (C6), a green fluorescent dye, was used as a model hydrophobic drug and loaded into RMSMCs. As drug carriers, the obtained spherical RMSMCs with the average size of 2 μm presented excellent reductive-responsive release ability for hydrophobic drugs. Accordingly, the obtained RMSMCs would be promising carriers for targeted delivery and triggered release of hydrophobic drugs in biomedical applications.

Sonication-assisted synthesis of a new cationic zinc nitrate complex with a tetradentate Schiff base ligand: Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and investigation of different parameters influence on morphological properties

A nanostructured cationic zinc nitrate complex with a formula of [ZnLNO₃]NO₃ (where L = (N²E,N^2'E)-N¹,N^1'-(ethane-1,2-diyl)bis(N²-((E)-3-phenylallylidene)ethane-1,2-diamine)) was prepared by sonochemical process and characterized by single crystal X-ray crystallography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). The X-ray analysis demonstrates the formation of a cationic complex that metal center is five-coordinated by four nitrogen atom from Schiff base ligand and one oxygen atom from nitrate group. The crystal packing analysis demonstrates the essential role of the nitrate groups in the organization of supramolecular structure. The morphology and size of ultrasound-assisted synthesized zinc nitrate complex have been investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) by changing parameters such as the concentration of initial reactants, the sonication power and reaction temperature. In addition the calcination of zinc nitrate complex in air atmosphere led to production of zinc oxide nanoparticles.

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis and characterization of a new metal-organic framework based on azobenzene-4,4-dicarboxylic acid: Precursor for the fabrication of Co3O4 nano-particles

Azobenzene groups are widely known as photochromic ligands thus are particularly interesting building blocks for designing receptors for neutral or charged guests. A new metal-organic framework, [Co₃(adc)₃(DMF)₄].2DMF (compound 1) (adc = azobenzene-4,4-dicarboxylic acid, DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide), was synthesized by solvothermal methods and structurally characterized using X-ray crystallography and a range of spectroscopic techniques. Also, nanorods of compound 1 have been synthesized by a sonochemical process and characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). The effect of sonication time and concentration of the initial reagents on the size and morphology of the MOF have been optimized. Results indicate that decreasing of initial concentration and increasing ultrasound radiation time lead to small size nanorods of compound 1. Thus, ultrasound radiation affects the size of nanorods. After heat treatment, the cobalt ion-based metal organic framework nanorods can be converted into porous Co₃O₄ nanoparticles.

A new electrochemical sensor for highly sensitive and selective detection of nitrite in food samples based on sonochemical synthesized Calcium Ferrite (CaFe2O4) clusters modified screen printed carbon electrode

Herein, we report a novel, disposable electrochemical sensor for the detection of nitrite ions in food samples based on the sonochemical synthesized orthorhombic CaFe₂O₄ (CFO) clusters modified screen printed electrode. As synthesized CFO clusters were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformer infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and amperometry (i-t). Under optimal condition, the CFO modified electrode displayed a rapid current response to nitrite, a linear response range from 0.016 to 1921 µM associated with a low detection limit 6.6 nM. The suggested sensor also showed the excellent sensitivity of 3.712 μA μM^-1 cm^-2. Furthermore, a good reproducibility, long-term stability and excellent selectivity were also attained on the proposed sensor. In addition, the practical applicability of the sensor was investigated via meat samples, tap water and drinking water, and showed desirable recovery rate, representing its possibilities for practical application.

Application of ultrasound-aided method for the synthesis of NdVO4 nano-photocatalyst and investigation of eliminate dye in contaminant water

This paper presents a new approach to preparation of neodymium vanadate nanostructures via facile sonochemical route. Several parameters were compared to reach optimum size and uniformity of as-made samples. These factors include sonication time, sonication power, solvent and using ethylenediamine as alkaline and capping agent, for the first time. Neodymium vanadate nano-photocatalyst applied in decolouration of dye as organic contaminant. Effect of type of dye, type of irradiation source, pH and catalyst loading was described on improving efficiency of catalyst function. Numerous techniques were specified in order to determine purity, morphology and optical properties of products consist XRD, FT-IR, EDX, SEM, TEM and DRS.

Fe3O4 nanocubes assembled on RGO nanosheets: Ultrasound induced in-situ and eco-friendly synthesis, characterization and their excellent catalytic performance for the production of liquid fuel in Fischer-tropsch synthesis

In this study, Fe₃O₄ nanocubes (NCs) decorated on RGO nanosheets (NSs) structures were successfully synthesized through an innovative and environmentally-friendly rapid sonochemical method. More importantly, iron(II) sulfate heptahydrate and GO were employed as precursors and water as reaction medium, meanwhile, NaOH within the generated free radicals from the high intensity ultrasound were sufficient as reducing and base agent in our clean synthesis. Moreover, the hydrothermal method as a conventional approach was employed to synthesize the same catalysts for the comparison with the ultrasonocation technique. The as-synthesized Fe₃O₄ and RGO/Fe₃O₄ NSs catalysts were exposed to industrially relevant Fischer-tropsch synthesis (FTS) conditions at various reaction temperatures (250-290 °C), and they subjected to fully characterization before and after FTS reaction using XRD, TEM, HRTEM, EDS mapping, XPS, FTIR, BET, H₂-TPR, H₂-TPD and CO-TPD to understand the structure-performance relationships. Notably, the catalysts produced using the sonochemical method had a better CO conversion rate [Fe₃O₄ (80%), RGO/Fe₃O₄ (82%)] than the hydrothermally synthesized catalysts. However, compared to the naked-Fe₃O₄ catalysts, the sonochemically and hydrothermally synthesized RGO-supported Fe₃O₄ catalysts had higher long chain hydrocarbon (C5+) selectivity values (72% and 67%) and C₂-C₄ olefin/paraffin selectivity ratio (3.2 and 2) and low CH4 selectivity values (6% and 8.5%), respectively. This can be attributed to their high surface area, the degree of reducibility, and content of Hägg iron carbide (χ-Fe₅C₂) as the most active phase of the FTS reaction. Proposed reaction mechanisms for the sonochemical and hydrothermal reaction synthesis of Fe₃O₄ and RGO/Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are discussed. In conclusion, our developed surfactantless-sonochemical method holds promise for the eco-friendly synthesis of highly efficient catalysts materials for FTS reaction.

Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of nano lead(II) coordination polymer as precursors for preparation of lead(II) oxide nano-structures: Thermal, optical properties and XRD studies

Nano structure of a lead (II) coordination polymer [Pb₂(C₂Cl₃O₂)₂(NO₃)₂(C_l2H₈N₂)₂]_n (1), has been synthesized by a sonochemical method in different concentrations. The nano particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), FT-IR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The thermal stability of nano structure is closely investigated via thermal gravimetric (TGA), and compared with crystalline structure. The compounds are then heated to 600 °C to produce PbO nano particles. The resulting PbO is characterized through XRD and SEM analyses. Concentration of initial reagents effects on size and morphology of nano-structured compound 1 have been studied and show that low concentrations of initial reagents decreased particles size and leaded to uniform nano particles morphology. The photoluminescence properties of the prepared compound, as crystalline and as nanoparticles, have been investigated. The result showed a good correlation between the size and emission wavelength.

The effects of solvent and ultrasonic irradiation in synthesis of thallium(I) nano supramolecular polymers and use them as template for synthesis of thallium(III) oxide nanostructures with desirable morphology

In order to study the effects of solvent and ultrasonic irradiation on formation of [Tl(HTar)]_n (1) and/or [Tl₂(Tar)]_n (2), [H₂Tar = (+)-tartaric acid] supramolecular polymers, we designed some experiments and synthesized four samples of 1 under the reaction of H₂Tar and TlNO₃ by sonochemical process and as the bulk samples. Nanostructures of compounds 1 and 2 as the bulk samples could be synthesized without ultrasonic irradiation, too. In the presence of ultrasonic waves, with acetonitrile solvent, more discrete nanoparticles were obtained. These four samples have been used as new precursors for preparation of thallium(III) oxide nanostructures via solid-state thermal decomposition process. There is a direct relationship between the morphology of initial precursors and resulting thallium(III) oxide nanostructures. These nanostructures were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

Three-dimensional organometallic thallium(I) supramolecular polymer nanostructures synthesized with sonochemical process

A new three-dimensional thallium(I) supramolecular polymer, [Tl₂(μ₂-ATA)]_n (1), [H₂ATA=2-aminoterephthalic acid]_, has been synthesized and characterized. The single-crystal X-ray data of compound 1 shows one type of Tl^I ion with a low coordination number. Compound 1 was self-assembled from Tl⋯C, Tl⋯O and Tl⋯N secondary interactions in thallium(I) coordination and the active lone pair on Tl^I in this compound may be involved in donor bonding. Two sides of the aromatic ring of ATA^2- anion have been involved in two types of secondary Tl⋯C approaches. Three samples of 1 were synthesized with three different concentrations of initial reagents under ultrasonic irradiation. The thermal stability of compound 1 samples were studied by thermo gravimetric (TG) and differential thermal analyses (DTA). These nano-structures were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Ultrasound irradiation effect on morphological properties of a 3D nano zinc(II) supramolecular coordination polymer

Nano-structures of [Zn(L)(atpt)]_n (1) (L=1,2-bis(2-methylbenzimidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzene and H₂atpt=2-aminoterephthalic acid) were obtained by hydrothermal and sonochemical approaches, characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), IR, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and elemental analysis. CP 1 features a 2D (4,4) network with the point symbol {4⁴.6²}, the 3D supramolecular architecture in CP 1 is controlled through π⋯π stacking interactions. The influence of various concentrations of initial reagents, power of ultrasound irradiation, and ultrasound time on the morphology and size of nano-structured CP 1 were studied in detail. In addition, the luminescence and photocatalytic properties of the nanoparticles of CP 1 for the degradation of methyl blue (MB) have also been investigated.

Preparation of thallium nanomaterials from thallium(I) coordination polymers precursors synthesized by green sonochemical and mechanochemical processes

Microstructures of [Tl₂(μ₂-ATA)]_n (1), [HATA=2-aminoterephthalic acid], supramolecular polymer was synthesized by sonochemical process (1S) and used as new precursor for preparation pure phase of thallium(III) oxide microstructures. [Tl(μ₂-dcpa)]_n (2), [Hdcpa=2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid], is another supramolecular polymer which was synthesized by green sonochemical (2S) and mechanochemical (2M) processes. These two samples of 2 were also used for preparation of thallium nanomaterials. Both processes on 2 were successful but mixture of Tl, Tl₂O₃ and TlCl nanostructures with various morphologies from 2S and mixture of Tl₂O₃ and TlCl nanoparticles from 2M were obtained. These micro and nanostructures were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

What can only occur in supramolecular systems; first solid-state conversion of micro to nanostructures without any treatment in environmental conditions

The sonochemical reaction between lead acetate and 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinoline resulted in formation of one-dimensional pencil shaped [Pb₂(5-Clq-8-ol)₂(OAc)₂]_n (1) supramolecular polymer microrods. After three months, these crystalline microrods convert to amorphous nanoparticles of 1 without any treatment in environmental conditions. In the absence of ultrasonic waves, bulk sample of 1 with microrods morphology was obtained again. Surprisingly, these microrods convert to nanorods of 1 with more crystalline structure after three months. It seems that the sonochemical prepared sample of 1 has less crystalline stability than the bulk sample. Although conversion of bulk to nanostructures is very rare in other materials, existence of weak secondary interactions in supramolecular systems, become it possible.

One minute synthesis of amino-silane functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles by sonochemical method

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) are material of interest for biomedical research and related applications. Recently, several works have reported facile sonochemical method of functionalizing nanoparticles with organic coupling agents. Herein, we present the influence of ultrasonic irradiation on the rate of functionalization of 3-amino propyl triethoxyl silane (APTES) on SPION. The effect of sonication on the process is investigated by varying the sonication period between 1 and 20min. Grafting of the organo-metallic molecules on SPION is demonstrated through FTIR and XPS. The results show that in one minute, organo-silane compound can be functionalized onto SPION through unique conditions generated from ultrasonic irradiation. The XPS survey spectra of the as-synthesized APTES-SPION at different sonication periods revealed that absorbed energy due to silanization reactions in all the samples appeared at same peaks. The percentage atomic concentrations of all the elements present in the as-synthesized APTES-SPION are determined by the software CASAXPS. The result demonstrated that highest percentage atomic concentration is observed at the one minute sonication period.

The effects of altering reaction conditions in green sonochemical synthesis of a thallium(I) coordination polymer and in achieving to different morphologies of thallium(III) oxide nanostructures via solid-state process

In order to studies the effects of solvent and concentration of initial reagents on formation of [Tl(μ₄-AB)]_n (1), [HAB=4-aminobenzoic acid] coordination polymer, some experiments were designed and four samples of 1 were synthesized by sonochemical process. High concentration of initial reagents resulted in formation of compound 1 microrods. With low concentration of initial reagents, various morphologies of 1 were obtained. These four samples had been used as new precursors for preparation of thallium(III) oxide nanostructures via solid-state thermal decomposition process. One- and two-dimensional nanostructures of thallium(III) oxide can be prepared from 1. These micro and nanostructures were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

Enhanced photodegradation of dye in waste water using iron vanadate nanocomposite; ultrasound-assisted preparation and characterization

The paper proposes a new approach to Schiff-base ligand assisted sonochemical synthesis of iron vanadate. In this disquisition, we tried to comparing various factors and reaction condition on morphology, size and uniformity of as-obtained samples. Some parameters including Schiff-base capping agent (Bis(acetylacetone) ethylenediamine=H₂acacen), electrolyte (NH₄F), solvent and reaction time were investigated to reach optimum condition. XRD, FT-IR, EDS, SEM and TEM were used in order to determine purity and structural morphology of as-synthesized products. Also, we explore the possibility of coupling vanadium pantaoxide into iron vanadate that improves optical properties and photocatalytic activity. With this in mind, FeVO₄/V₂O₅ nanocomposite was prepared via in-situ ultrasound-assisted procedure by using NH₄F in one step. Influence of different parameters such as type of dye (Rhodamine B=Rh B, Phenol red=Ph R and Methyl violet=MV) and light source (Ultraviolet and visible) on photocatalytic ability of samples were studied.

Synthesis of a new Hg(II) coordination polymer: Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis and mechanical preparation of nanostructure

A new mercury(II) coordination polymer, [Hg(4-bpmo)I₂]_n (1), (4-bpmo=N,N'-bis(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)oxalamide), was synthesized, by branched tube method, and structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 1 is a polymer with a distorted tetrahedral HgN₂I₂ coordination environment. The thermal stability of 1 was studied by thermal gravimetric (TG) and differential thermal (DTA) analyses. Also 1 was prepared by a sonochemical process at ambient temperature. Reaction time and concentration of initial reagents effects on the size and morphology were studied. Nanoparticles of 1, was synthesized easily by a mechanical method (neat grinding). The resulting structures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), IR spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD).

Ultrasonic assisted synthesis of two urea functionalized metal organic frameworks for phenol sensing: A comparative study

Two pillared metal-organic frameworks containing urea functional groups were synthesized by a sonochemical method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The time of sonication and concentration of starting materials have been optimized to synthesize nanoparticles of TMU-31 and TMU-32. These two frameworks are interesting candidates for a comparative fluorescence study. Thus, their potential abilities for phenol sensing were investigated. This investigation revealed the prominent roles of hydrogen bond donating urea groups inside the pore cavity in the ability of these structures in phenol sensing.

Sonochemical synthesis and characterization of microrod to nanoparticle of new mixed-ligand zinc(II) fumarate metal-organic polymer

Micro and nano-structures of a new mixed-ligand Zn(II) fumarate metal-organic polymer, {[Zn(tptz)(fum)].DMF}_n (1), (tptz=2,4,6-tris(2-pyridyl)-s-triazine, fum=fumarate, DMF=N,N-dimethylforamide), were synthesized by sonochemical method. These new micro and nano-structures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), IR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. Compound 1 was structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and consists of the primary unit of [Zn(tptz)(fum)]. Self assembly between the units of [Zn(tptz)(fum)] from Zn-O bonds results in the formation of a one-dimensional zinc(II) coordination polymer. The Zn^II-ion in compound 1 has ZnO₂N₃ coordination sphere with a trigonal bipyramidal molecular geometry. Compound 1 was synthesized by ultrasound irradiation under different concentrations and times. The microrods structure of compound 1 with increasing of concentration and ultrasound radiation time were synthesized as nanoparticles structure successfully. So ultrasound radiation change morphology from microrods to nanoparticles.

Sonochemical assisted synthesis of RGO/ZnO nanowire arrays for photoelectrochemical water splitting

This article presented the synthesis of a hybrid nanoarchitecture material composed of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) multiple sheets and ZnO nanowire arrays (NWAs) formed on an arbitrary ZnO coated fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates via pulse sonication and hydrothermal approach. The NWAs have high aspect-ratio, high density, apt positioning and well-ordered formation. FESEM images demonstrated that RGO layers have been effectively intercalated between and on the accessible surfaces of the ZnO NWAs. The diameter of ZnO nanowires is 80-150nm and length about 1-2μm. Raman spectrum of hybrid material exhibited characteristic D and suppressed G peaks for graphene and E₂ mode at 437cm^-1 for ZnO NWAs. UV-visible spectrum indicated slight red shift towards visible range after formation of RGO/ZnO NWAs heterostructure. The Photoelectrochemical results indicated higher current densities for RGO/ZnO NWAs heterostructure due to water oxidation reaction at the working electrode compared to pristine ZnO NWAs.

Sonochemical synthesis and characterization of new nanostructures cobalt(II) metal-organic complexes derived from the azo-coupling reaction of 4-amino benzoic acid with anthranilic acid, salicylaldehyde and 2-naphtol

Nanostructures of three new cobalt(II) complexes, (CoL₁)·0.5DMF·1.5MeOH (1), [H₂L₁=5-(4-Carboxy phenyl azo) anthranilic acid], (Co(L₂)₂)·1.5MeOH (2), [HL₂=5-(4-Carboxy phenyl azo) salicylaldehyde] and (Co(L₃)₂)·0.5DMF·0.5MeOH (3), [HL₃=1-(4-Carboxy phenyl azo) 2-naphtol], have been synthesized by the reaction of H₂L₁, HL₂ and HL₃ with Co(OAc)₂·4H₂O through sonochemical process. Calcination of the nano-sized compounds 1-3 yield Co₃O₄ nanoparticles at 450°C under air atmosphere. These nanostructures were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Thermal stability of compounds 1-3 was studied by thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermal analyses (DTA).

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of nano-structured Zinc(II)-based metal-organic frameworks as precursors for the synthesis of ZnO nano-structures

A 3D, porous Zn(II)-based metal-organic framework {[Zn₂(oba)₂(4-bpmn)]·(DMF)_1.5}_n (TMU-21), (4-bpmn=N,N'-Bis-pyridin-4-ylmethylene-naphtalene-1,5-diamine, H₂oba=4,4'-oxybis(benzoic acid)) with nano-rods morphology under ultrasonic irradiation at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure was prepared and characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Sonication time and concentration of initial reagents effects on the size and morphology of nano-structured MOFs were studied. Also {[Zn₂(oba)₂(4-bpmn)] (TMU-21) and {[Zn₂(oba)₂(4-bpmb)] (TMU-6), 4-bpmb=N,N'-(1,4-phenylene)bis(1-(pyridin-4-yl)methanimine) were easily prepared by mechanochemical synthesis. Nanostructures of Zinc(II) oxide were obtained by calcination of these compounds and their de-solvated analogue as activated MOFs, at 550°C under air atmosphere. As a result of that, different Nanostructures of Zinc(II) oxide were obtained. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FT-IR spectroscopy.

Fabrication of redox and pH dual-responsive magnetic graphene oxide microcapsules via sonochemical method

In this study, the biocompatible redox and pH dual-responsive magnetic graphene oxide microcapsules (MGOMCs) were prepared by a simple sonochemical method. The disulfide bonds cross-linked the wall of MGOMCs were formed from the hydrosulfuryl on the surface of thiolated graphene oxide, which was synthesized by functionalizing graphene oxide with cysteine, showed an excellent redox-responsive property to control drugs release. Moreover, oleic acid modified Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were encapsulated into the microcapsules successfully with the hydrophobic drugs dispersed in the hydroxy silicone oil. The MGOMCs possess distinguished magnetic property and pH-responsive ability. Besides, the microcapsules could be engulfed by Hela cells successfully due to the appropriate size and flexible shell. The MGOMCs could be a good carrier for hydrophobic drugs, especially the anticancer drugs.

Sonochemical assisted hydrothermal synthesis of pseudo-flower shaped Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) and their solar-driven water splitting application

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO₄) is a well-known photocatalyst due to its lower bandgap (E_g) and visible electromagnetic light absorption capacity. Herein, we reported the pulse ultra-sonochemical assisted hydrothermal approach to synthesize S-BiVO₄. For the comparison purpose, H-BiVO₄ is also synthesized via conventional hydrothermal approach. The surface morphology of S-BiVO₄ through scanning electron microscope (SEM) indicates condensed microarrays (MAs) having pseudo-flower shapes. The energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) spectrum also confirmed the elemental percent composition of Bi, V and O in BiVO₄. X-rays diffraction (XRD) pattern further confirmed the monoclinic scheelite phase of S-BiVO₄. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectrum showed Bi-O and Bi-V-O vibrational bands at 1382 and 1630cm^-1, respectively. The diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) indicated absorption edge at ∼515nm, corresponds to bandgap value (E_g) of 2.41eV, which is suitable range for water splitting applications. The photocurrent density from water splitting under artificial 1 SUN visible light source found at 60 and 50μA/cm² for S-BiVO₄ and H-BiVO₄, respectively. The stability test through chronoamperometry showed that S-BiVO₄ was more stable than H-BiVO₄. It can be depicted from the growth mechanism that ultrasonication played a definite role in the overall synthesis of pseudo-flower shaped S-BiVO₄ MAs.

Nucleation and growth of zinc oxide nanorods directly on metal wire by sonochemical method

ZnO nanorods were directly grown on four different wires (silver, nickel, copper, and tungsten) using sonochemical method. Zinc nitrate hexahydrate and hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) were used as precursors. Influence of growth parameters such as precursors' concentration and ultrasonic power on the grown nanorods were determined. The results demonstrated that the precursor concentration affected the growth structure and density of the nanorods. The morphology, distribution, and orientation of nanorods changed as the ultrasonic power changed. Nucleation of ZnO nanorods on the wire occurred at lower ultrasonic power and when the power increased, the formation and growth of ZnO nanorods on the wires were initiated. The best morphology, size, distribution, and orientation of the nanorods were observed on the Ag wire. The presence of single crystal nanorod with hexagonal shaped was obtained. This shape indicates that the ZnO nanorods corresponded to the hexagonal wurtzite structure with growth preferential towards the (002) direction.

Studies the effects of ultrasonic irradiation and dielectric constants of solvents on formation of lead(II) supramolecular polymer; new precursors for synthesis of lead(II) oxide nanoparticles

In order to evaluation the effects of ultrasonic irradiations and dielectric constants of solvents on formation [Pb₂(5-Clq-8-ol)₂(OAc)₂]_n (1), [H5-Clq-8-ol=5-chloroquinolin-8-ol and OAc^-=acetate]_, we designed some experiments and synthesized six samples of 1 under different conditions. Microrods of a lead(II) supramolecular polymer, were synthesized under these conditions. These microstructures were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that compound 1 with the best crystallinity can be obtained in the presence of MeCN and H₂O (as the bulk sample) and in the presence of MeCN and EtOH (by sonochemical process). The least agglomeration of microrods was observed in H₂O which is due to high dielectric constant of it. By considering all of the factors consist of crystallinity and agglomeration of the products and their corresponding histograms, it seems that MeCN is the best solvent for synthesis of 1. The samples which were synthesized in the presence of MeCN, had been used as new precursors for fabricating lead(II) oxide nanoparticles via thermal decomposition in oleic acid (OA).

Ultrasound-assisted fabrication of a novel nickel(II)-bis-pyrazolyl borate two-nuclear discrete nano-structured coordination compound

Ultrasound was used to synthesize nano-structures of [Ni(bpzB)₂]₂(1), a new two-nuclear discrete-coordination compound of divalent nickel with bis-pyrazolyl borate(bpzB). The nanostructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared, and elemental analysis. The single-crystal X-ray data show that the coordination number of Ni(II) ions is four (Ni1N₄ and Ni2N₄) with square planar geometry. The supramolecular features in these complexes are guided and controlled by weak directional intermolecular interactions. The discrete molecules interact with each other through labile interactions, creating a 3D supramolecular framework.

Sonochemical and sustainable synthesis of graphene-gold (G-Au) nanocomposites for enzymeless and selective electrochemical detection of nitric oxide

In this study, a sonochemical approach was utilised for the development of graphene-gold (G-Au) nanocomposite. Through the sonochemical method, simultaneous exfoliation of graphite and the reduction of gold chloride occurs to produce highly crystalline G-Au nanocomposite. The in situ growth of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) took place on the surface of exfoliated few-layer graphene sheets. The G-Au nanocomposite was characterised by UV-vis, XRD, FTIR, TEM, XPS and Raman spectroscopy techniques. This G-Au nanocomposite was used to modify glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to fabricate an electrochemical sensor for the selective detection of nitric oxide (NO), a critical cancer biomarker. G-Au modified GCE exhibited an enhanced electrocatalytic response towards the oxidation of NO as compared to other control electrodes. The electrochemical detection of NO was investigated by linear sweep voltammetry analysis, utilising the G-Au modified GCE in a linear range of 10-5000μM which exhibited a limit of detection of 0.04μM (S/N=3). Furthermore, this enzyme-free G-Au/GCE exhibited an excellent selectivity towards NO in the presence of interferences. The synergistic effect of graphene and AuNPs, which facilitated exceptional electron-transfer processes between the electrolyte and the GCE thereby improving the sensing performance of the fabricated G-Au modified electrode with stable and reproducible responses. This G-Au nanocomposite introduces a new electrode material in the sensitive and selective detection of NO, a prominent biomarker of cancer.

Sonochemical synthesis of CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite ultrafine nanocrystal sensitizers for solar energy applications

The organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite CH3NH3PbI3 is becoming an interesting material in the field of energy harvesting. This material is one of the cleanest and cheapest components in solar cells which is available in ample amounts. However, most of the previous research work was done on thin film of this material. In the present work we describe the preparation of a powder containing nanoparticles of CH3NH3PbI3 using a sonochemical method. Characterization of the product was done by various methods, such as HRTEM, FTIR, PL, DLS and XRD. The particles were found to be highly crystalline (tetragonal crystal structure), polygonal in shape and having diameters of 10-40nm.