The potential uses of bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered considerable interest, but it remains challenging to synthesise them using straightforward and effective techniques. This work reports the successful use of a straightforward synthesis technique to fabricate octahedral (Oh) PdFe alloy nanostructures. To assess their structural and morphological characteristics, the nanostructures were methodically described using a variety of methods, such as elemental mapping, FESEM, PXRD, TEM, HRTEM, UV-visible spectroscopy, and EDS line scan analysis. The electronic states of the bare PdFe were revealed by XPS analysis, and ICP-OES verified the precise metal composition of the synthesised material. Moreover, the catalytic potential of the fabricated PdFe/ZrO₂ was demonstrated by breaking down cationic and anionic dyes under varying pH conditions. Among these dyes, Congo Red (CR), Eosin Y (EY), and Rhodamine B (Rh B) were removed under neutral, acidic, and basic environments, respectively. The catalytic reaction resulted in the complete removal of dye within a reasonable timeframe, with negligible alteration in the nanostructure morphology, indicating the stability and reusability of the synthesised nanomaterial. Furthermore, from the kinetic study, the percentage of dye removal is analysed and discussed for all three different dyes. This study aims to expand the potential use of the fabricated PdFe rather than using bare material, which requires more loading for applications.

The objective of this study is to investigate the complex dielectric properties of watermelon juices using Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR) over a wide frequency range of 1 GHz to 30 GHz. This analysis provides useful information about the molecular composition and quality indicators. Fresh juice was extracted from watermelon fruit. The juice was then filtered to remove any solid particles before the dielectric measurements were taken. The dielectric properties of the filtered juices were measured at a controlled temperature of 23°C using Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR). The microwave dielectric spectral analysis of watermelon juice was performed through the measurements, and the analysis of the real, i.e., permittivity, and imaginary dielectric loss components of the complex dielectric constants across the frequency range of 1 GHz to 30 GHz was carried out. The frequency-dependent dielectric constant and loss are presented and discussed. Additionally, a Cole–Cole plot is presented in this study. The findings from this study provide further insights into the molecular polarizability of fruit juice and hence its molecular structure and applicability as a quality indicator in the food industry. This study is the first comprehensive investigation of the complex dielectric properties of watermelon, using TDR across the frequency range from 1 GHz to 30 GHz.

The increasing threat of bacterial infections and the limitations of conventional antibiotics have intensified the search for innovative antimicrobial substances. This study examines a heterostructure nanomaterial of single layer graphene (SLG) and delaminated MXene (d-Ti3C2Tx), designed to efficiently inhibit bacterial growth. MXene was synthesised using selective etching and delamination, while the SLG/d-Ti3C2Tx composite was prepared via ultrasonication to ensure uniform dispersion and interfacial interaction between the materials. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), FTIR, and FE-SEM confirmed the successful integration of the 2D d-Ti3C2Tx and SLG. Antibacterial activity was assessed using two methods: optical density and colony-forming unit (CFU) quantification. At 500 µg/mL, the SLG/d-Ti3C2Tx heterostructure demonstrated the strongest antibacterial activity among all materials investigated. Low CFU counts and significant inhibition of bacterial growth were observed. The enhanced activity is attributed to the large surface area of graphene and the sharp edges and surface functionalities of d-Ti3C2Tx, which damage microbial membranes and obstruct cellular processes. The results clearly demonstrate that SLG/d-Ti3C2Tx acts as an effective antibacterial agent. This study opens new avenues for the future development of 2D heterostructures engineered for microbial resistance under diverse conditions. Thus, the designing of the 2D/2D heterostructure SLG/d-Ti3C2Tx is a promising strategy to achieve the antimicrobial activity for various applications.

The increasing incidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria has necessitated an urgent requirement for new antimicrobial materials that inhibit microbial proliferation through physical and chemical surface interactions, as opposed to traditional biochemical mechanisms. In this study, a ternary nanocomposite consisting of Graphene Oxide (GO), Single Layer Graphene (SLG), and delaminated MXene was synthesised utilising an ultrasonication-assisted method to ensure uniform dispersion and robust interfacial contact among the components. We used PXRD, XPS, and FE-SEM to look at the structure and shape of the materials, which proved that the layered materials were successfully integrated and kept their functional surface properties. The composite's ability to kill bacteria was tested against certain strains by measuring optical density and colony-forming unit (CFU) assays. The GO–SLG–delaminated MXene composite demonstrated significantly enhanced antibacterial efficacy in comparison to its individual and binary forms, with substantial inhibition noted at the evaluated concentration. The improved effectiveness is due to the combined effects of GO-induced oxidative stress, SLG's large surface area and capacity to interact with membranes, and delaminated MXene's sharp edges and reactive surface groups that damage bacterial cells. The composite's multifunctional surface structure makes it easier to break down membranes, interfere with metabolism, and cause oxidative damage, all of which work together to make it more effective against bacteria. These results show that created 2D heterostructures could be useful as antimicrobial agents. They also give us a good starting point for creating nanomaterials that are suited to certain surfaces for use in healthcare, sanitation, and environmental protection.

Studying the electronic states of semimagnetic-based double quantum wells (DQWs) is particularly intriguing due to the combined effects of quantum confinement and exchange interactions with localized magnetic ions. In such structures, the incorporation of Mn²⁺ ions introduce a spin-dependent potential through the exchange interaction, which alters the energy spectrum and lifts the spin degeneracy of electronic states. The double quantum well configuration enables the investigation of tunneling phenomena and the coupling between adjacent wells, providing a versatile system for analyzing the influence of structural parameters on carrier dynamics. In this work, we specifically investigated the effect of the DQW dimensions, namely, the well width and barrier thickness, on the electronic states by solving the transcendental equation within the effective mass approximation, using the trial wavefunction corresponding to the DQW system. The outcomes reveal that each parameter exerts a distinct influence: more precisely, the electronic state energies tend to increase with the increment of the barrier thickness, due to the reduction in tunneling probability, while they decrease with the increment of the well width, as a result of the weaker quantum confinement. Furthermore, the increase in the Manganese composition leads to a higher potential barrier, which enhances the quantum confinement and, consequently, results in an increase in the energies of the electronic states. In conclusion, these findings not only deepen our understanding of the electronic behavior in semimagnetic heterostructures but also offer practical guidance for tailoring quantum well architectures to meet specific functional requirements in advanced semiconductor technologies. Furthermore, these results are aligned with the findings reported in Refs. [1,2].

[1] T. Kamizato, M. Matsuura, Excitons in double quantum wells, Phys Rev B 40 (1998) 15–1989. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.40.8378.

[2] J. Cen, K.K. Bajaj, Binding energies of excitons and donors in a double quantum well in a magnetic field, (1992).

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) plays a vital role in both domestic and industrial sectors; however, it poses serious safety risks due to accidental leakages arising from process malfunctions or human error. Therefore, the development of efficient sensors for reliable LPG detection is of critical importance. In the present study, a highly responsive and cost-effective liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensor operating at room temperature was developed using MoTe₂ thin films. MoTe₂ was synthesized through a low-cost hydrothermal route, and thin films were fabricated via the spin-coating technique. The prepared samples were thoroughly characterized to investigate their elemental composition, crystal structure, phase formation, and morphology using EDS, XRD, TEM, SEM, Raman, and FTIR spectroscopy. According to the results, PXRD and Raman spectroscopy suggest a pure phase of hexagonal 2H-MoTe₂. FTIR revealed the presence of Mo-Te vibrational modes. FE-SEM revealed elongated sheet-like structures. The EDX confirms the coexistence of the Mo and Te elements, while colour mapping confirmed the uniform distribution of Mo and Te. Further, the gas-sensing performance of the MoTe₂ thin film was examined toward LPG concentrations in the sub-LEL range (0.5–2.0 vol%). A maximum sensor response of 137 was achieved at 2.0 vol%, while the fastest response and recovery times were 8 s and 22 s, respectively, at 0.5 vol% LPG.

Introduction

Bone structures that have fractured due to exceeding their strength limits are often treated using osteosynthesis plates. They are usually produced using titanium alloys, due to their high strength and biocompatibility. Nevertheless, their relatively high Young’s modulus compared to the bone can lead to excessive offloading of the bone and the phenomenon known as stress shielding. Therefore, a good replacement material seems to be a metal–ceramic functionally graded (FGM) Ti-HAP material, which exhibits anisotropic mechanical properties along a specific direction. Moreover, ceramic hydroxyapatite has properties close to bone, which is an additional advantage of this material approach. A promising extension of FGM is the incorporation of structural porosity, especially in biomedical applications, as it can have a beneficial effect on bone healing processes. However, understanding the effect of a porous Ti-HAP FGM plate on the properties of the bone–plate interface is essential. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the influence of the gradient bone plate on deformation, strain, and the stress shielding phenomenon in a bone model.

Methods

A typical osteosynthesis plate was modelled. The isotropic properties of the graded Ti-HAP material were calculated using the Power Law. The different porosity properties including number and size of pores were considered. The prepared plate was attached to a simplified tibia bone model represented as a cylinder, consisting of cortical and trabecular parts. The different boundary conditions like type and angle of fracture or bone healing level were analysed.

Results and conclusions

The performed findings revealed that porosity can positively affect the reduction stress shielding. The porous graded Ti-HAP plate was characterized by slightly reduced mechanical properties compared to the system with a dense plate and may promote the remodeling process of the fractured bone. Numerical simulations showed the model can be further optimized using topology methods.

The growing global demand for lithium, driven by the battery and renewable energy industries, calls for more efficient and environmentally responsible extraction technologies. Conventional methods, based on open-pond evaporation, generate significant ecological impact and exhibit low selectivity [1]. Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) has emerged as a key alternative, with hybrid membranes functionalized with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs).

In this work, polymeric membranes were modified via in situ synthesis of bimetallic ZIF-type MOFs, incorporating zinc and cobalt metal centers coordinated with 2-methylimidazole. Using a layer-by-layer approach, three variants were prepared with molar Zn:Co ratios of 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1. Morphological and compositional characterization was performed using FTIR, SEM, and XRD, while Li⁺ extraction efficiency was evaluated through electrochemical techniques and ion chromatography under simulated brine conditions.

Successful integration of MOFs onto the membranes was achieved through layer-by-layer coatings [2] , revealing a direct correlation between the Zn:Co ratio and surface morphology. Preliminary analyses indicate that the metallic composition modulates membrane permeability and selectivity toward lithium ions, potentially affecting extraction efficiency. Although quantitative selectivity data against competing ions (Na⁺/Mg²⁺/Ca²⁺/K⁺) are still under investigation, structural differences suggest variable lithium affinity depending on the material’s composition.

These findings pave the way for the rational optimization of hybrid membranes for DLE, with potential to reduce chemical consumption, minimize waste generation, and enhance process sustainability.

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation under the state assignment of the national project "Science and Universities" No. FSER-2025-0016

References
1.Calvo E.J. New methods of direct lithium extraction: Impact on sustainable exploitation of Puna salt flats // Ciencia Hoy. – 2022. – Vol. 30. – No. 180. – P. 51–59.

2.Kida K. et al. Layer-by-layer aqueous rapid synthesis of ZIF-8 films on a reactive surface // Dalton Transactions. – 2013. – Vol. 42. – No. 31. – P. 11128–11135.

Introduction

Textiles have relied, for a long time, on coatings containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), to achieve superior hydrophobic, oleophobic and stain-resistant properties. These coatings excel not only at repelling liquids, but also stand out for their durability, including resistance to heat, chemicals, and physical stress. However, the exact chemical structure, which provides durable properties, is also responsible for their persistence in the environment and accumulation in living organisms, raising a significant concern for environmental and human health. Our research presents a hydrophobic coating based on natural biopolymers sourced from renewable materials, which not only imparts hydrophobicity on textiles but also offers a safer alternative to PFAS, which reduces environmental and health risks.

Methods

A plain weaved 100% cotton (CO) and polyester (PES) fabrics were rod-coated with multiple variations of a coating, containing a suspension of biopolymer-based microcapsules (MCs). The coated samples were analyzed to determine the presence and the distribution of MCs (scanning electron microscopy—SEM), hydrophobic properties before and after washing (water contact angle—WCA), physical properties (thickness, mass per unit area), mechanical properties (tensile strength), and change in color.

Results

The results showed that hydrophobicity of the coated samples was achieved with minimal impact on the original properties of the CO and PES fabrics. The SEM analysis confirmed the presence of MC on the fibre surface. The WCA has increased from below 10 ° for untreated samples to above 120 ° for coated samples. Samples retained hydrophobic properties after washing, with some samples exceeding WCA of 120 °. No significant changes in colorimetric parameters were observed after the coating deposition.

Conclusions

A hydrophobic coating based on natural biopolymer microcapsules was successfully applied to CO and PES fabrics, providing durable hydrophobicity without altering the fabric color. This fluorine-free formulation offers a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to PFAS-based textile coatings.

The accurate and reproducible quantification of nanoparticles from electron microscopy images is essential in fields such as nanoscience, materials engineering, catalysis, and biomedical research. Despite the availability of high-resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), analyzing particle distributions is often a labor-intensive and subjective process, particularly in the absence of standardized, user-friendly tools. To address these limitations, this work presents a dual-threshold-driven GUI tool for rapid nanoparticle quantification from electron microscopy images, developed to combine automation, transparency, and user control within a single, open-source framework. This Python-based application leverages both adaptive Gaussian thresholding and Otsu’s global thresholding, executing them in parallel and selecting the optimal segmentation route based on connected component analysis. The resulting binary image is cleaned using morphological filtering, followed by marker-controlled watershed segmentation to accurately resolve particle boundaries, including overlapping and clustered regions. A built-in GUI enables users to manually define the scale bar on the image for dimensional calibration and to verify processing outputs step-by-step through visual overlays. Final outputs include particle size distributions (in nanometers), histogram plots with optional Gaussian fitting, and tabular reports exportable in standard formats. Benchmarking was conducted against ImageJ and data from the published literature. The tool achieved a deviation of no more than 10% in mean particle size estimation while significantly reducing the average processing time per image. Reliability is further supported by reporting size distributions as mean ± standard deviation, alongside Gaussian fitting for statistical confidence. The tool is lightweight, standalone, and easily deployable across operating systems. It demonstrated high consistency across diverse SEM/TEM images, offering a practical, interpretable, and reproducible solution for nanoparticle quantification in academic and industrial environments alike.