Exploring the effect of the covalent functionalization in graphene-antimonene heterostructures

The growing field of two-dimensional (2D) materials has recently witnessed the emergence of heterostructures, however those combining monoelemental layered materials remain relatively unexplored. In this study, we present the chemical fabrication and characterization of a heterostructure formed by graphene and hexagonal antimonene. The interaction between these 2D materials is thoroughly examined through Raman spectroscopy and first-principles calculations, revealing that this can be considered as a van der Waals heterostructure. Furthermore, we have explored the influence of the antimonene 2D material on the reactivity of graphene by studying the laser-induced covalent functionalization of the graphene surface. Our findings indicate distinct degrees of functionalization based on the underlying material, SiO2 being more reactive than antimonene, opening the door for the development of controlled patterning in devices based on these heterostructures. This covalent functionalization implies a high control over the chemical information that can be stored but also removed on graphene surfaces, and its use as a patterned heterostructure based on antimonene and graphene. This research provides valuable insights into the antimonene-graphene interactions and their impact on the chemical reactivity during graphene covalent functionalization.

[Determination of the elasticity of the femoral cortex of Adam's arc in patients with osteoarthritis]

In this study, the compressive strength, the compressive force as well as cortical thickness of prismatic specimens from Adam's arc of the femur were determined in patients with osteoarthrosis. Correlations were evaluated between the cortical bone parameters, which depend on age and sex. Supported by histomorphometric data of cancellous bone, the great variability of mechanical properties revealed the variable osteological status prior to implantation of hip endoprostheses. Its eventual consequences for alloarthroplastic surgery had been discussed.