TY - JOUR A1 - Adesina, Morenike O. A1 - Block, Inga A1 - Günter, Christina A1 - Unuabonah, Emmanuel Iyayi A1 - Taubert, Andreas T1 - Efficient Removal of Tetracycline and Bisphenol A from Water with a New Hybrid Clay/TiO2 Composite JF - ACS Omega N2 - New TiO2 hybrid composites were prepared fromkaolinclay, predried and carbonized biomass, and titanium tetraisopropoxideand explored for tetracycline (TET) and bisphenol A (BPA) removalfrom water. Overall, the removal rate is 84% for TET and 51% for BPA.The maximum adsorption capacities (q (m))are 30 and 23 mg/g for TET and BPA, respectively. These capacitiesare far greater than those obtained for unmodified TiO2. Increasing the ionic strength of the solution does not change theadsorption capacity of the adsorbent. pH changes only slightly changeBPA adsorption, while a pH > 7 significantly reduces the adsorptionof TET on the material. The Brouers-Sotolongo fractal modelbest describes the kinetic data for both TET and BPA adsorption, predictingthat the adsorption process occurs via a complex mechanism involvingvarious forces of attraction. Temkin and Freundlich isotherms, whichbest fit the equilibrium adsorption data for TET and BPA, respectively,suggest that adsorption sites are heterogeneous in nature. Overall,the composite materials are much more effective for TET removal fromaqueous solution than for BPA. This phenomenon is assigned to a differencein the TET/adsorbent interactions vs the BPA/adsorbent interactions:the decisive factor appears to be favorable electrostatic interactionsfor TET yielding a more effective TET removal. Y1 - 2023 U6 - https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.3c00184 SN - 2470-1343 VL - 8 IS - 24 SP - 21594 EP - 21604 PB - American Chemical Society CY - Washington ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Erler, Alexander A1 - Riebe, Daniel A1 - Beitz, Toralf A1 - Löhmannsröben, Hans-Gerd A1 - Leenen, Mathias A1 - Pätzold, Stefan A1 - Ostermann, Markus A1 - Wójcik, Michał T1 - Mobile laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for future application in precision agriculture BT - a case study JF - Sensors N2 - In precision agriculture, the estimation of soil parameters via sensors and the creation of nutrient maps are a prerequisite for farmers to take targeted measures such as spatially resolved fertilization. In this work, 68 soil samples uniformly distributed over a field near Bonn are investigated using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). These investigations include the determination of the total contents of macro- and micronutrients as well as further soil parameters such as soil pH, soil organic matter (SOM) content, and soil texture. The applied LIBS instruments are a handheld and a platform spectrometer, which potentially allows for the single-point measurement and scanning of whole fields, respectively. Their results are compared with a high-resolution lab spectrometer. The prediction of soil parameters was based on multivariate methods. Different feature selection methods and regression methods like PLS, PCR, SVM, Lasso, and Gaussian processes were tested and compared. While good predictions were obtained for Ca, Mg, P, Mn, Cu, and silt content, excellent predictions were obtained for K, Fe, and clay content. The comparison of the three different spectrometers showed that although the lab spectrometer gives the best results, measurements with both field spectrometers also yield good results. This allows for a method transfer to the in-field measurements. KW - LIBS KW - precision agriculture KW - soil KW - multivariate methods KW - feature selection Y1 - 2023 U6 - https://doi.org/10.3390/s23167178 SN - 1424-8220 VL - 23 IS - 16 PB - MDPI CY - Basel ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Schlappa, Stephanie A1 - Bressel, Lena A1 - Reich, Oliver A1 - Münzberg, Marvin T1 - Advanced particle size analysis in high-solid-content polymer dispersions using photon density wave spectroscopy JF - Polymers N2 - High-solid-content polystyrene and polyvinyl acetate dispersions of polymer particles with a 50 nm to 500 nm mean particle diameter and 12-55% (w/w) solid content have been produced via emulsion polymerization and characterized regarding their optical and physical properties. Both systems have been analyzed with common particle-size-measuring techniques like dynamic light scattering (DLS) and static light scattering (SLS) and compared to inline particle size distribution (PSD) measurements via photon density wave (PDW) spectroscopy in undiluted samples. It is shown that particle size measurements of undiluted polystyrene dispersions are in good agreement between analysis methods. However, for polyvinyl acetate particles, size determination is challenging due to bound water in the produced polymer. For the first time, water-swelling factors were determined via an iterative approach of PDW spectroscopy error (X-2) minimization. It is shown that water-swollen particles can be analyzed in high-solid-content solutions and their physical properties can be assumed to determine the refractive index, density, and volume fraction in dispersion. It was found that assumed water swelling improved the reduced scattering coefficient fit by PDW spectroscopy by up to ten times and particle size determination was refined and enabled. Particle size analysis of the water-swollen particles agreed well with offline-based state-of-the-art techniques. KW - emulsion polymerization KW - multiple light scattering KW - photon density wave KW - spectroscopy KW - particle sizing KW - swelling of polymers Y1 - 2023 U6 - https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15153181 SN - 2073-4360 VL - 15 IS - 15 PB - MDPI CY - Basel ER - TY - THES A1 - Martínez Guajardo, Alejandro T1 - New zwitterionic polymers for antifouling applications T1 - Neue zwitterionische Polymere für Antifouling-Anwendungen N2 - The remarkable antifouling properties of zwitterionic polymers in controlled environments are often counteracted by their delicate mechanical stability. In order to improve the mechanical stabilities of zwitterionic hydrogels, the effect of increased crosslinker densities was thus explored. In a first approach, terpolymers of zwitterionic monomer 3-[N -2(methacryloyloxy)ethyl-N,N-dimethyl]ammonio propane-1-sulfonate (SPE), hydrophobic monomer butyl methacrylate (BMA), and photo-crosslinker 2-(4-benzoylphenoxy)ethyl methacrylate (BPEMA) were synthesized. Thin hydrogel coatings of the copolymers were then produced and photo-crosslinked. Studies of the swollen hydrogel films showed that not only the mechanical stability but also, unexpectedly, the antifouling properties were improved by the presence of hydrophobic BMA units in the terpolymers. Based on the positive results shown by the amphiphilic terpolymers and in order to further test the impact that hydrophobicity has on both the antifouling properties of zwitterionic hydrogels and on their mechanical stability, a new amphiphilic zwitterionic methacrylic monomer, 3-((2-(methacryloyloxy)hexyl)dimethylammonio)propane-1-sulfonate (M1), was synthesized in good yields in a multistep synthesis. Homopolymers of M1 were obtained by free-radical polymerization. Similarly, terpolymers of M1, zwitterionic monomer SPE, and photo-crosslinker BPEMA were synthesized by free-radical copolymerization and thoroughly characterized, including its solubilities in selected solvents. Also, a new family of vinyl amide zwitterionic monomomers, namely 3-(dimethyl(2-(N -vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)propane-1-sulfonate (M2), 4-(dimethyl(2-(N-vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)butane-1-sulfonate (M3), and 3-(dimethyl(2-(N-vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)propyl sulfate (M4), together with the new photo-crosslinker 4-benzoyl-N-vinylbenzamide (M5) that is well-suited for copolymerization with vinylamides, are introduced within the scope of the present work. The monomers are synthesized with good yields developing a multistep synthesis. Homopolymers of the new vinyl amide zwitterionic monomers are obtained by free-radical polymerization and thoroughly characterized. From the solubility tests, it is remarkable that the homopolymers produced are fully soluble in water, evidence of their high hydrophilicity. Copolymerization of the vinyl amide zwitterionic monomers, M2, M3, and M4 with the vinyl amide photo-crosslinker M5 proved to require very specific polymerization conditions. Nevertheless, copolymers were successfully obtained by free-radical copolymerization under appropriate conditions. Moreover, in an attempt to mitigate the intrinsic hydrophobicity introduced in the copolymers by the photo-crosslinkers, and based on the proven affinity of quaternized diallylamines to copolymerize with vinyl amides, a new quaternized diallylamine sulfobetaine photo-crosslinker 3-(diallyl(2-(4-benzoylphenoxy)ethyl)ammonio)propane-1-sulfonate (M6) is synthesized. However, despite a priori promising copolymerization suitability, copolymerization with the vinyl amide zwitterionic monomers could not be achieved. N2 - Die hervorragenden Antifouling-Eigenschaften zwitterionischer Polymere in kontrollierten Bedingungen werden häufig durch ihre geringe mechanische Stabilität beeinträchtigt. Um die mechanische Eigenschaften zwitterionischer Hydrogele zu verbessern, wurde daher der Effekt einer erhöhten Vernetzungsdichte untersucht. In einem ersten Ansatz wurden Terpolymere aus dem zwitterionischen Monomer 3-[N -2(Methacryloyloxy)ethyl-N,N-dimethyl]ammonio propan-1-sulfonat (SPE), dem hydrophoben Monomer Butylmethacrylat (BMA) und dem Photovernetzer 2-(4-Benzoylphenoxy)ethylmethacrylat (BPEMA) synthetisiert. Daraufhin wurden dünne Beschichtungen der Copolymere hergestellt und photovernetzt. Die Untersuchung der gequollenen Hydrogelfilme zeigte, dass nicht nur die mechanischen Eigenschaften, sondern überraschenderweise auch die Antifouling-Eigenschaften der Hydrogele durch den Einbau von hydrophoben BMA-Einheiten in die Terpolymere verbessert wurden. Aufgrund der positiven Ergebnisse der amphiphilen Terpolymere und um die Auswirkungen der Hydrophobie sowohl auf die Antifouling- als auch auf die mechanische Eigenschaften der zwitterionischen Hydrogele zu testen, wurde ein neues amphiphiles zwitterionisches Methacrylat, nämlich 3-((2-(Methacryloyloxy)hexyl)dimethylammonio)propan-1-sulfonat (M1), in guter Ausbeute synthetisiert. Homopolymere von M1 wurden durch radikalische Polymerisation erhalten. In ähnlicher Weise wurden Terpolymere aus M1, dem zwitterionischen Monomer SPE und dem Photovernetzer BPEMA durch radikalische Copolymerisation synthetisiert und gründlich charakterisiert, einschließlich ihrer Löslichkeiten in ausgewählten Lösungsmitteln. Außerdem wurde im Rahmen der vorliegenden Arbeit eine neue Familie von zwitterionischen Vinylamidmonomeren, nämlich 3-(Dimethyl(2-(N-vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)propan-1-sulfonat (M2), 4-(Dimethyl(2-(N -vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)butan-1-sulfonat (M3) und 3-(Dimethyl(2-(N -vinylacetamido)ethyl)ammonio)propylsulfat (M4), zusammen mit einem geeigneten Vinylamid-Photovernetzer, nämlich 4-Benzoyl-N -vinylbenzamide (M5) entwickelt. Die Monomere wurden in einer Mehrstufen-Synthese mit guten Ausbeuten synthetisiert. Homopolymere der neuen zwitterionischen Vinylamidmonomere wurden durch radikalische Polymerisation erhalten und eingehend charakterisiert. Die Löslichkeitstests zeigen, dass die hergestellten Homopolymere bemerkenswerterweise vollständig in reinem Wasser löslich sind, was ihre hohe Hydrophilie beweist. Die Copolymerisation der zwitterionischen Vinylamidmonomere M2, M3 und M4 mit dem Vinylamid-Photovernetzer M5 erwies sich als schwierig. Die Copolymere lassen sich dennoch unter sehr spezifische Bedingungen durch radikalische Copolymerisation herstellen. Des Weiteren, um die durch die Photovernetzer in die Copolymere eingebrachte inhärente Hydrophobie zu mindern und aufgrund ihrer nachgewiesenen Affinität zur Copolymerisation mit Vinylamiden, wurde ein neuer quaternisierter Diallylaminsulfobetain-Photovernetzer 3-(Diallyl(2-(4-benzoylphenoxy)ethyl)ammonio)propan-1-sulfonat (M6) synthetisiert. Trotz a priori vielversprechender Copolymerisationseignung konnte jedoch keine Copolymerisation mit den zwitterionischen Vinylamidmonomeren erreicht werden. KW - antifouling KW - Antifouling KW - copolymers KW - Copolymere KW - hydrogels KW - Hydrogele KW - zwitterions KW - Zwitterionen KW - synthesis KW - Synthese Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-626820 ER - TY - THES A1 - Mostafa, Amr T1 - DNA origami nanoforks: A platform for cytochrome c single molecule surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy N2 - This thesis presents a comprehensive exploration of the application of DNA origami nanofork antennas (DONAs) in the field of spectroscopy, with a particular focus on the structural analysis of Cytochrome C (CytC) at the single-molecule level. The research encapsulates the design, optimization, and application of DONAs in enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of Raman spectroscopy, thereby offering new insights into protein structures and interactions. The initial phase of the study involved the meticulous optimization of DNA origami structures. This process was pivotal in developing nanoscale tools that could significantly enhance the capabilities of Raman spectroscopy. The optimized DNA origami nanoforks, in both dimer and aggregate forms, demonstrated an enhanced ability to detect and analyze molecular vibrations, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of protein dynamics. A key aspect of this research was the comparative analysis between the dimer and aggregate forms of DONAs. This comparison revealed that while both configurations effectively identified oxidation and spin states of CytC, the aggregate form offered a broader range of detectable molecular states due to its prolonged signal emission and increased number of molecules. This extended duration of signal emission in the aggregates was attributed to the collective hotspot area, enhancing overall signal stability and sensitivity. Furthermore, the study delved into the analysis of the Amide III band using the DONA system. Observations included a transient shift in the Amide III band's frequency, suggesting dynamic alterations in the secondary structure of CytC. These shifts, indicative of transitions between different protein structures, were crucial in understanding the protein’s functional mechanisms and interactions. The research presented in this thesis not only contributes significantly to the field of spectroscopy but also illustrates the potential of interdisciplinary approaches in biosensing. The use of DNA origami-based systems in spectroscopy has opened new avenues for research, offering a detailed and comprehensive understanding of protein structures and interactions. The insights gained from this research are expected to have lasting implications in scientific fields ranging from drug development to the study of complex biochemical pathways. This thesis thus stands as a testament to the power of integrating nanotechnology, biochemistry, and spectroscopic techniques in addressing complex scientific questions. N2 - Diese Dissertation präsentiert eine umfassende Untersuchung der Anwendung von DNA-Origami-Nanogabelantennen (DONAs) im Bereich der Spektroskopie, mit einem besonderen Fokus auf der strukturellen Analyse von Cytochrom C (CytC) auf Einzelmolekülebene. Die Forschung umfasst das Design, die Optimierung und die Anwendung von DONAs zur Steigerung der Sensitivität und Spezifität der Raman-Spektroskopie und bietet somit neue Einblicke in Proteinstrukturen und -interaktionen. Die erste Phase der Studie beinhaltete die sorgfältige Optimierung von DNA-Origami-Strukturen. Dieser Prozess war entscheidend für die Entwicklung von Nanowerkzeugen, die die Fähigkeiten der Raman-Spektroskopie erheblich verbessern könnten. Die optimierten DNA-Origami-Nanogabeln, sowohl in Dimer- als auch in Aggregatform, zeigten eine verbesserte Fähigkeit, molekulare Schwingungen zu detektieren und zu analysieren, was zu einem nuancierteren Verständnis der Proteindynamik beitrug. Ein Schlüsselaspekt dieser Forschung war die vergleichende Analyse zwischen den Dimer- und Aggregatformen von DONAs. Dieser Vergleich zeigte, dass beide Konfigurationen effektiv Oxidations- und Spin-Zustände von CytC identifizieren konnten, wobei die Aggregatform aufgrund ihrer längeren Signalemission und der erhöhten Anzahl von Molekülen ein breiteres Spektrum an detektierbaren molekularen Zuständen bot. Die verlängerte Dauer der Signalemission in den Aggregaten wurde auf den kollektiven Hotspot-Bereich zurückgeführt, der die Gesamtsignalstabilität und -empfindlichkeit erhöhte. Darüber hinaus ging die Studie auf die Analyse der Amid-III-Bande unter Verwendung des DONA-Systems ein. Zu den Beobachtungen gehörte eine vorübergehende Verschiebung der Frequenz der Amid-III-Bande, was auf dynamische Veränderungen in der Sekundärstruktur von CytC hindeutete. Diese Verschiebungen, die auf Übergänge zwischen verschiedenen Proteinstrukturen hindeuteten, waren entscheidend für das Verständnis der funktionellen Mechanismen und Interaktionen des Proteins. Die in dieser Dissertation präsentierte Forschung leistet nicht nur einen bedeutenden Beitrag zum Gebiet der Spektroskopie, sondern veranschaulicht auch das Potenzial interdisziplinärer Ansätze in der Biosensorik. Der Einsatz von DNA-Origami-basierten Systemen in der Spektroskopie hat neue Wege für die Forschung eröffnet und bietet ein detailliertes und umfassendes Verständnis von Proteinstrukturen und -interaktionen. Die aus dieser Forschung gewonnenen Erkenntnisse werden voraussichtlich langfristige Auswirkungen auf wissenschaftliche Bereiche haben, die von der Arzneimittelentwicklung bis hin zur Untersuchung komplexer biochemischer Prozesse reichen. Diese Dissertation steht somit als Zeugnis für die Kraft der Integration von Nanotechnologie, Biochemie und spektroskopischen Techniken bei der Beantwortung komplexer wissenschaftlicher Fragen. KW - DNA origami KW - DNA origami nanoantennas (DONA) KW - SERS KW - Cytochrome C Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-635482 ER - TY - THES A1 - Eren, Enis Oğuzhan T1 - Covalent anode materials for high-energy sodium-ion batteries T1 - Kovalente Anodenmaterialien für hoch-energetische Natrium-Ionen-Batterien N2 - The reliance on fossil fuels has resulted in an abnormal increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases, contributing to the global climate crisis. In response, a rapid transition to renewable energy sources has begun, particularly lithium-ion batteries, playing a crucial role in the green energy transformation. However, concerns regarding the availability and geopolitical implications of lithium have prompted the exploration of alternative rechargeable battery systems, such as sodium-ion batteries. Sodium is significantly abundant and more homogeneously distributed in the crust and seawater, making it easier and less expensive to extract than lithium. However, because of the mysterious nature of its components, sodium-ion batteries are not yet sufficiently advanced to take the place of lithium-ion batteries. Specifically, sodium exhibits a more metallic character and a larger ionic radius, resulting in a different ion storage mechanism utilized in lithium-ion batteries. Innovations in synthetic methods, post-treatments, and interface engineering clearly demonstrate the significance of developing high-performance carbonaceous anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The objective of this dissertation is to present a systematic approach for fabricating efficient, high-performance, and sustainable carbonaceous anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. This will involve a comprehensive investigation of different chemical environments and post-modification techniques as well. This dissertation focuses on three main objectives. Firstly, it explores the significance of post-synthetic methods in designing interfaces. A conformal carbon nitride coating is deposited through chemical vapor deposition on a carbon electrode as an artificial solid-electrolyte interface layer, resulting in improved electrochemical performance. The interaction between the carbon nitride artificial interface and the carbon electrode enhances initial Coulombic efficiency, rate performance, and total capacity. Secondly, a novel process for preparing sulfur-rich carbon as a high-performing anode material for sodium-ion batteries is presented. The method involves using an oligo-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene precursor for high sulfur content hard carbon anode to investigate the sulfur heteroatom effect on the electrochemical sodium storage mechanism. By optimizing the condensation temperature, a significant transformation in the materials’ nanostructure is achieved, leading to improved electrochemical performance. The use of in-operando small-angle X-ray scattering provides valuable insights into the interaction between micropores and sodium ions during the electrochemical processes. Lastly, the development of high-capacity hard carbon, derived from 5-hydroxymethyl furfural, is examined. This carbon material exhibits exceptional performance at both low and high current densities. Extensive electrochemical and physicochemical characterizations shed light on the sodium storage mechanism concerning the chemical environment, establishing the material’s stability and potential applications in sodium-ion batteries. N2 - Die Abhängigkeit von fossilen Brennstoffen hat zu einem abnormalen Anstieg von Treibhausgasen in der Atmosphäre geführt, was zur globalen Klimakrise beiträgt. Als Reaktion darauf hat eine rasche Umstellung auf erneuerbare Energiequellen begonnen, insbesondere Lithium-Ionen-Batterien, die eine entscheidende Rolle in der grünen Energiewende spielen. Bedenken hinsichtlich der Verfügbarkeit und geopolitischen Implikationen von Lithium haben jedoch die Erforschung alternativer wiederaufladbarer Batteriesysteme wie Natrium-Ionen-Batterien angeregt. Natrium ist in der Erdkruste und im Meerwasser deutlich häufiger und gleichmäßiger verteilt, was seine Extraktion im Vergleich zu Lithium einfacher und kostengünstiger macht. Aufgrund der geheimnisvollen Natur ihrer Komponenten sind Natrium-Ionen-Batterien derzeit noch nicht ausreichend fortgeschritten, um Lithium-Ionen-Batterien zu ersetzen. Insbesondere weist Natrium einen stärker metallischen Charakter und einen größeren Ionenradius auf, was zu einem anderen Ionen-Speichermechanismus führt, der in Lithium-Ionen-Batterien verwendet wird. Innovationen in synthetischen, post-synthetischen Methoden und Schnittstellentechnik zeigen deutlich die Bedeutung der Entwicklung hochleistungsfähiger kohlenstoffhaltiger Anodenmaterialien für Natrium-Ionen-Batterien auf. Das Ziel dieser Dissertation ist es, einen systematischen Ansatz zur Herstellung effizienter, leistungsstarker und nachhaltiger kohlenstoffhaltiger Anodenmaterialien für Natrium-Ionen-Batterien zu untersuchen. Diese Dissertation konzentriert sich auf drei Hauptziele. Erstens untersucht sie die Bedeutung von post-synthetischen Methoden bei der Gestaltung von Schnittstellen. Eine konforme Kohlenstoffnitrid-Beschichtung wird durch chemische Gasphasenabscheidung auf einer Kohlenstoffelektrode als künstliche Festelektrolytschnittstelle abgeschieden, was zu einer verbesserten elektrochemischen Leistung führt. Die Wechselwirkung zwischen der künstlichen Kohlenstoffnitrid-Schnittstelle und der Kohlenstoffelektrode trägt zu einer verbesserten anfänglichen kolumbischen Effizienz, Leistung bei hohen Raten und Gesamtkapazität bei. Zweitens wird ein neuartiger Prozess zur Herstellung von schwefelreichem Kohlenstoff als hochleistungsfähiges Anodenmaterial für Natrium-Ionen-Batterien vorgestellt. Die Methode verwendet einen Oligo-3,4-ethylendioxythiophen-Vorläufer für eine harte Kohlenstoffanode mit hohem Schwefelgehalt, um den Effekt des Schwefelheteroatoms auf den elektrochemischen Natriumspeichermechanismus zu untersuchen. Durch Optimierung der Kondensationstemperatur wird eine bedeutende Transformation in der Nanostruktur des Materials erreicht, was zu einer verbesserten elektrochemischen Leistung führt. Der Einsatz von in-operando-Röntgenkleinwinkelstreuung liefert wertvolle Erkenntnisse über die Wechselwirkung zwischen Mikroporen und Natriumionen während der elektrochemischen Prozesse. Letzendlich wird die Entwicklung einer hochkapazitiven harten Kohlenstoffanode, die aus 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural gewonnen wird, untersucht. Dieses Kohlenstoffmaterial zeigt eine außergewöhnliche Leistung sowohl bei niedrigen als auch bei hohen Stromdichten. KW - sodium-ion battery KW - sulfur KW - carbon KW - CN KW - anode KW - in-operando SAXS KW - Kohlenstoffnitrid (CN) KW - Anode KW - Kohlenstoff KW - in-operando SAXS KW - Natrium-Ionen-Batterie KW - Schwefel Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-622585 ER - TY - THES A1 - Hussein, Mahmoud T1 - Solvent engineering for highly-efficiency lead-free perovskite solar cells T1 - Lösungsmitteltechnik für hocheffiziente Zinn-Perowskit-Solarzellen N2 - Global warming, driven primarily by the excessive emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, has led to severe and detrimental environmental impacts. Rising global temperatures have triggered a cascade of adverse effects, including melting glaciers and polar ice caps, more frequent and intense heat waves disrupted weather patterns, and the acidification of oceans. These changes adversely affect ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies, threatening food security, water availability, and livelihoods. One promising solution to mitigate the harmful effects of global warming is the widespread adoption of solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells. Solar cells harness sunlight to generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or other pollutants. By replacing fossil fuel-based energy sources, solar cells can significantly reduce CO2 emissions, a significant contributor to global warming. This transition to clean, renewable energy can help curb the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, thereby slowing down the rate of global temperature rise. Solar energy’s positive impact extends beyond emission reduction. As solar panels become more efficient and affordable, they empower individuals, communities, and even entire nations to generate electricity and become less dependent on fossil fuels. This decentralized energy generation can enhance resilience in the face of climate-related challenges. Moreover, implementing solar cells creates green jobs and stimulates technological innovation, further promoting sustainable economic growth. As solar technology advances, its integration with energy storage systems and smart grids can ensure a stable and reliable energy supply, reducing the need for backup fossil fuel power plants that exacerbate environmental degradation. The market-dominant solar cell technology is silicon-based, highly matured technology with a highly systematic production procedure. However, it suffers from several drawbacks, such as: 1) Cost: still relatively high due to high energy consumption due to the need to melt and purify silicon, and the use of silver as an electrode, which hinders their widespread availability, especially in low-income countries. 2) Efficiency: theoretically, it should deliver around 29%; however, the efficiency of most of the commercially available silicon-based solar cells ranges from 18 – 22%. 3) Temperature sensitivity: The efficiency decreases with the increase in the temperature, affecting their output. 4) Resource constraints: silicon as a raw material is unavailable in all countries, creating supply chain challenges. Perovskite solar cells arose in 2011 and matured very rapidly in the last decade as a highly efficient and versatile solar cell technology. With an efficiency of 26%, high absorption coefficients, solution processability, and tunable band gap, it attracted the attention of the solar cells community. It represented a hope for cheap, efficient, and easily processable next-generation solar cells. However, lead toxicity might be the block stone hindering perovskite solar cells’ market reach. Lead is a heavy and bioavailable element that makes perovskite solar cells environmentally unfriendly technology. As a result, scientists try to replace lead with a more environmentally friendly element. Among several possible alternatives, tin was the most suitable element due to its electronic and atomic structure similarity to lead. Tin perovskites were developed to alleviate the challenge of lead toxicity. Theoretically, it shows very high absorption coefficients, an optimum band gap of 1.35 eV for FASnI3, and a very high short circuit current, which nominates it to deliver the highest possible efficiency of a single junction solar cell, which is around 30.1% according to Schockly-Quisser limit. However, tin perovskites’ efficiency still lags below 15% and is irreproducible, especially from lab to lab. This humble performance could be attributed to three reasons: 1) Tin (II) oxidation to tin (IV), which would happen due to oxygen, water, or even by the effect of the solvent, as was discovered recently. 2) fast crystallization dynamics, which occurs due to the lateral exposure of the P-orbitals of the tin atom, which enhances its reactivity and increases the crystallization pace. 3) Energy band misalignment: The energy bands at the interfaces between the perovskite absorber material and the charge selective layers are not aligned, leading to high interfacial charge recombination, which devastates the photovoltaic performance. To solve these issues, we implemented several techniques and approaches that enhanced the efficiency of tin halide perovskites, providing new chemically safe solvents and antisolvents. In addition, we studied the energy band alignment between the charge transport layers and the tin perovskite absorber. Recent research has shown that the principal source of tin oxidation is the solvent known as dimethylsulfoxide, which also happens to be one of the most effective solvents for processing perovskite. The search for a stable solvent might prove to be the factor that makes all the difference in the stability of tin-based perovskites. We started with a database of over 2,000 solvents and narrowed it down to a series of 12 new solvents that are suitable for processing FASnI3 experimentally. This was accomplished by looking into 1) the solubility of the precursor chemicals FAI and SnI2, 2) the thermal stability of the precursor solution, and 3) the potential to form perovskite. Finally, we show that it is possible to manufacture solar cells using a novel solvent system that outperforms those produced using DMSO. The results of our research give some suggestions that may be used in the search for novel solvents or mixes of solvents that can be used to manufacture stable tin-based perovskites. Due to the quick crystallization of tin, it is more difficult to deposit tin-based perovskite films from a solution than manufacturing lead-based perovskite films since lead perovskite is more often utilized. The most efficient way to get high efficiencies is to deposit perovskite from dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), which slows down the quick construction of the tin-iodine network that is responsible for perovskite synthesis. This is the most successful approach for achieving high efficiencies. Dimethyl sulfoxide, which is used in the processing, is responsible for the oxidation of tin, which is a disadvantage of this method. This research presents a potentially fruitful alternative in which 4-(tert-butyl) pyridine can substitute dimethyl sulfoxide in the process of regulating crystallization without causing tin oxidation to take place. Perovskite films that have been formed from pyridine have been shown to have a much-reduced defect density. This has resulted in increased charge mobility and better photovoltaic performance, making pyridine a desirable alternative for use in the deposition of tin perovskite films. The precise control of perovskite precursor crystallization inside a thin film is of utmost importance for optimizing the efficiency and manufacturing of solar cells. The deposition process of tin-based perovskite films from a solution presents difficulties due to the quick crystallization of tin compared to the more often employed lead perovskite. The optimal approach for attaining elevated efficiencies entails using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a medium for depositing perovskite. This choice of solvent impedes the tin-iodine network’s fast aggregation, which plays a crucial role in the production of perovskite. Nevertheless, this methodology is limited since the utilization of dimethyl sulfoxide leads to the oxidation of tin throughout the processing stage. In this thesis, we present a potentially advantageous alternative approach wherein 4-(tert-butyl) pyridine is proposed as a substitute for dimethyl sulfoxide in regulating crystallization processes while avoiding the undesired consequence of tin oxidation. Films of perovskite formed using pyridine as a solvent have a notably reduced density of defects, resulting in higher mobility of charges and improved performance in solar applications. Consequently, the utilization of pyridine for the deposition of tin perovskite films is considered advantageous. Tin perovskites are suffering from an apparent energy band misalignment. However, the band diagrams published in the current body of research display contradictions, resulting in a dearth of unanimity. Moreover, comprehensive information about the dynamics connected with charge extraction is lacking. This thesis aims to ascertain the energy band locations of tin perovskites by employing the kelvin probe and Photoelectron yield spectroscopy methods. This thesis aims to construct a precise band diagram for the often-utilized device stack. Moreover, a comprehensive analysis is performed to assess the energy deficits inherent in the current energetic structure of tin halide perovskites. In addition, we investigate the influence of BCP on the improvement of electron extraction in C60/BCP systems, with a specific emphasis on the energy factors involved. Furthermore, transient surface photovoltage was utilized to investigate the charge extraction kinetics of frequently studied charge transport layers, such as NiOx and PEDOT as hole transport layers and C60, ICBA, and PCBM as electron transport layers. The Hall effect, KP, and TRPL approaches accurately ascertain the p-doping concentration in FASnI3. The results consistently demonstrated a value of 1.5 * 1017 cm-3. Our research findings highlight the imperative nature of autonomously constructing the charge extraction layers for tin halide perovskites, apart from those used for lead perovskites. The crystallization of perovskite precursors relies mainly on the utilization of two solvents. The first one dissolves the perovskite powder to form the precursor solution, usually called the solvent. The second one precipitates the perovskite precursor, forming the wet film, which is a supersaturated solution of perovskite precursor and in the remains of the solvent and the antisolvent. Later, this wet film crystallizes upon annealing into a full perovskite crystallized film. In our research context, we proposed new solvents to dissolve FASnI3, but when we tried to form a film, most of them did not crystallize. This is attributed to the high coordination strength between the metal halide and the solvent molecules, which is unbreakable by the traditionally used antisolvents such as Toluene and Chlorobenzene. To solve this issue, we introduce a high-throughput antisolvent screening in which we screened around 73 selected antisolvents against 15 solvents that can form a 1M FASnI3 solution. We used for the first time in tin perovskites machine learning algorithm to understand and predict the effect of an antisolvent on the crystallization of a precursor solution in a particular solvent. We relied on film darkness as a primary criterion to judge the efficacy of a solvent-antisolvent pair. We found that the relative polarity between solvent and antisolvent is the primary factor that affects the solvent-antisolvent interaction. Based on our findings, we prepared several high-quality tin perovskite films free from DMSO and achieved an efficiency of 9%, which is the highest DMSO tin perovskite device so far. N2 - Zinn ist eine der vielversprechendsten Alternativen zu Blei, um bleifreie Halogenidperowskite für die Optoelektronik herzustellen. Die Stabilität von Perowskiten auf Zinnbasis wird jedoch durch die Oxidation von Sn(II) zu Sn(IV) beeinträchtigt. Jüngste Arbeiten haben ergeben, dass Dimethylsulfoxid, eines der besten Lösungsmittel für die Verarbeitung von Perowskiten, die Hauptquelle für die Oxidation von Zinn ist. Die Suche nach einem stabilen Lösungsmittel könnte den Ausschlag für die Stabilität von Perowskiten auf Zinnbasis geben. Ausgehend von einer Datenbank mit über 2000 Lösungsmitteln haben wir eine Reihe von 12 neuen Lösungsmitteln identifiziert, die für die Verarbeitung von Formamidinium-Zinniodid-Perowskit (FASnI3) geeignet sind, indem wir 1) die Löslichkeit der Vorläuferchemikalien FAI und SnI2, 2) die thermische Stabilität der Vorläuferlösung und 3) die Möglichkeit zur Bildung von Perowskit experimentell untersucht haben. Schließlich demonstrieren wir ein neues Lösungsmittelsystem zur Herstellung von Solarzellen, das die auf DMSO basierenden Zellen übertrifft. Unsere Arbeit liefert Leitlinien für die weitere Identifizierung neuer Lösungsmittel oder Lösungsmittelmischungen zur Herstellung stabiler Perowskite auf Zinnbasis. Die genaue Steuerung der Kristallisation des Perowskit-Vorläufers in einer Dünnschicht ist entscheidend für die Effizienz und Produktion von Solarzellen. Die Abscheidung von Perowskit-Filmen auf Zinnbasis aus einer Lösung stellt aufgrund der schnellen Kristallisation von Zinn im Vergleich zu dem üblicherweise verwendeten Bleiperowskit eine Herausforderung dar. Die effektivste Methode zur Erzielung hoher Wirkungsgrade ist die Abscheidung von Perowskit aus Dimethylsulfoxid (DMSO), das den schnellen Aufbau des für die Perowskitbildung verantwortlichen Zinn-Jod-Netzwerks behindert. Dieser Ansatz hat jedoch einen Nachteil, da Dimethylsulfoxid während der Verarbeitung eine Zinnoxidation verursacht. In dieser Studie wird eine vielversprechende Alternative vorgestellt, bei der 4-(tert-Butyl)-pyridin Dimethylsulfoxid bei der Steuerung der Kristallisation ersetzen kann, ohne eine Zinnoxidation zu verursachen. Aus Pyridin abgeschiedene Perowskit-Filme weisen eine deutlich geringere Defektdichte auf, was zu einer erhöhten Ladungsbeweglichkeit und einer verbesserten photovoltaischen Leistung führt und es zu einer günstigen Wahl für die Abscheidung von Zinn-Perowskit-Filmen macht. Zinnperowskite haben sich als vielversprechender, umweltverträglicher Ersatz für Bleiperowskite erwiesen, vor allem wegen ihrer besseren optoelektronischen Eigenschaften und ihrer geringeren Bioverfügbarkeit. Dennoch gibt es mehrere Gründe, warum die Leistung von Zinnperowskiten nicht mit der von Bleiperowskiten verglichen werden kann. Einer dieser Gründe ist die Nichtübereinstimmung der Energiebänder zwischen dem Perowskit-Absorberfilm und den ladungstransportierenden Schichten (CTLs). Die in der vorhandenen Literatur dargestellten Banddiagramme sind jedoch uneinheitlich, was zu einem Mangel an Konsens führt. Außerdem ist das Verständnis der mit der Ladungsextraktion verbundenen Dynamik noch unzureichend. In dieser Studie sollen die Energiebandpositionen von Zinnperowskiten mit Hilfe der Kelvinsonde (KP) und der Photoelektronenausbeutespektroskopie (PYS) bestimmt werden. Ziel ist es, ein genaues Banddiagramm für den üblicherweise verwendeten Bauelementestapel zu erstellen. Darüber hinaus führen wir eine Diagnose der energetischen Unzulänglichkeiten durch, die im bestehenden energetischen Rahmen von Zinnhalogenid-Perowskiten vorhanden sind. Unser Ziel ist es, Folgendes zu klären den Einfluss von BCP auf die Verbesserung der Elektronenextraktion in C60/BCP-Systemen, wobei der Schwerpunkt auf den energetischen Aspekten liegt. Darüber hinaus haben wir die transiente Oberflächenphotospannung (tr-SPV) eingesetzt, um Einblicke in die Ladungsextraktionskinetik von allgemein bekannten CTLs zu gewinnen, einschließlich NiOx und PEDOT als Lochtransportschichten (HTLs) und C60, ICBA und PCBM als Elektronentransportschichten (ETLs). In diesem Kapitel verwenden wir den Halleffekt, KP- und TRPL-Techniken, um die genaue p-Dotierungskonzentration in FASnI3 zu bestimmen. Unsere Ergebnisse ergaben durchweg einen Wert von 1.5 * 1017 cm-3. Die Ergebnisse unserer Studie zeigen, dass es notwendig ist, die Ladungsextraktionsschichten von Zinnhalogenidperowskiten unabhängig von den Bleiperowskiten zu entwickeln. Die Kristallisation von Perowskit-Vorstufen beruht hauptsächlich auf der Verwendung von zwei Lösungsmitteln. Das erste löst das Perowskit-Pulver auf und bildet die Vorläuferlösung, die üblicherweise als Lösungsmittel bezeichnet wird. Mit dem zweiten wird der Perowskit-Precursor ausgefällt, wobei sich der Nassfilm bildet, der eine übersättigte Lösung des Perowskit-Precursors und der Reste des Lösungsmittels und des Antisolierungsmittels ist. Später kristallisiert dieser nasse Film beim Ausglühen zu einem vollständig kristallisierten Perowskit-Film. In unserem Forschungskontext haben wir neue Lösungsmittel vorgeschlagen, um FASnI3 aufzulösen, aber als wir versuchten, einen Film zu bilden, kristallisierten die meisten von ihnen nicht. Dies ist auf die hohe Koordinationsstärke zwischen dem Metallhalogenid und den Lösungsmittelmolekülen zurückzuführen, die von den traditionell verwendeten Antisolierungsmitteln wie Toluol und Chlorbenzol nicht aufgebrochen werden kann. Um dieses Problem zu lösen, haben wir ein Hochdurchsatz-Screening von Antisolventien durchgeführt, bei dem wir 73 ausgewählte Antisolventien mit 15 Lösungsmitteln verglichen haben, die eine 1M FASnI3-Lösung bilden können. Wir haben zum ersten Mal bei Zinnperowskiten einen Algorithmus für maschinelles Lernen verwendet, um die Wirkung eines Antisolvens auf die Kristallisation einer Vorläuferlösung in einem bestimmten Lösungsmittel zu verstehen und vorherzusagen. Wir stützten uns auf die Schwärzung des Films als primäres Kriterium zur Beurteilung der Wirksamkeit eines Lösungsmittel-Antisolierungsmittel-Paares. Wir fanden heraus, dass die relative Polarität zwischen Lösungsmittel und Antisolvent der wichtigste Faktor ist, der die Wechselwirkung zwischen Lösungsmittel und Antisolvent beeinflusst. Auf der Grundlage unserer Erkenntnisse haben wir mehrere hochwertige Zinn-Perowskit-Filme ohne DMSO hergestellt und einen Wirkungsgrad von 9 % erzielt, was die bisher höchste DMSO-Zinn-Perowskit-Vorrichtung darstellt. KW - perovskite solar cells KW - lead-free perovskites KW - tin perovskites KW - solar cells KW - perovskite KW - Perowskit-Solarzellen KW - photovoltaische Materialien KW - Solarzellen KW - Lösungsmittel KW - bleifreie Perowskit-Solarzellen Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-630375 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kuhrts, Lucas T1 - The effect of Polycations on the Formation of Magnetite Nanoparticles N2 - Nanoparticles of magnetite (Fe3O4) are envisioned to find used in diverse applications, ranging from magnetic data storage, inks, ferrofluids as well as in magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery, and hyperthermia cancer treatment. Their magnetic properties strongly depend on their size and morphology, two properties that can be synthetically controlled. Achieving appropriate control under soft chemical conditions has so far remained a challenging endeavor. One proven way of exerting this desired control has been using a biomimetic approach that emulates the proteome of magnetotactic bacteria by adding poly-L-arginine in the co- precipitation of ferrous and ferric chloride. The objective of the work presented here is to understand the impact of this polycation on the formation mechanism of magnetite and, through rational design, to enhance the control we can exert on magnetite nanoparticle size and morphology. We developed a SAXS setup to temporally and structurally resolve the formation of magnetite in the presence of poly-L-arginine in situ. Using analytical scattering models, we were able to separate the scattering contribution of a low-density 5 nm iron structure from the contribution of the growing nanoparticles. We identified that the low-density iron structure is a metastable precursor to the magnetite particles and that it is electrostatically stabilized by poly-L-arginine. In a process analogous to biomineralization, the presence of the charged macromolecule thus shifts the reaction mechanism from a thermodynamically controlled one to a kinetically controlled one. We identify this shift in reactions mechanism as the cornerstone of the proposed mechanism and as the crucial step in the paradigm of this extraordinary nanoparticle morphology and size control. Based on SAXS data, theoretical considerations suggest that an observed morphological transition between spherical, solid, and sub-structured mesocrystalline magnetite nanoparticles is induced through a pH-driven change in the wettability of the nanoparticle surface. With these results, we further demonstrate that SAXS can be an invaluable tool for investigating nanoparticle formation. We were able to change particle morphology from spherically solid particles to sub-structured mesocrystals merely by changing the precipitation pH. Improving the synthesis sustainability by substituting poly-L-arginine with renewable, polysaccharide-based polycations produced at the metric ton scale, we demonstrated that the ability to alter the reaction mechanism of magnetite can be generically attributed to the presence of polycations. Through meticulous analysis and the understanding of the formation mechanism, we were able to exert precise control over particle size and morphology, by adapting crucial synthesis parameters. We were thus able to grow mesocrystals up to 200 nm and solid nanocrystals of 100 nm by adding virtually any strong polycation. We further found a way to produce stable single domain magnetite at only slightly increased alkalinity, as magnetotactic bacteria do it. Thus through the understanding of the biological system, the consecutive biomimetic synthesis of magnetite and the following understanding of the mechanism involved in the in vitro synthesis, we managed to improve the synthetic control over the co-precipitation of magnetite, coming close biomineralization of magnetite in magnetotactic bacteria. Polyanions, in both natural as well as in synthetic systems, have been in the spotlight of recent research, yet our work shows the pivotal influence polycations have on the nucleation of magnetite. This work will contribute significantly to our ability to tailor magnetite nanoparticle size and morphology; in addition, we presume it will provide us with a model system for studying biomineralization of magnetite in vitro, putting the spotlight on the important influence of polycations, which have not had the scientific attention they deserve. T2 - Der Effekt von Polykationen auf die Bildung von Magnetitnanopartikeln KW - Mechanism KW - Nanoparticle KW - SAXS KW - Biomimetic KW - Magnetite Y1 - CY - Potsdam ER - TY - THES A1 - Matic, Aleksandar T1 - Myrcene to materials BT - Synthesis of bio-based materials for different applications Y1 - ER - TY - THES A1 - Kar, Manaswita T1 - Energy band gap tuning of halide perovskite materials from first principles N2 - Solar cells based on hybrid perovskites materials have become significantly important among the third generation photovoltaics over the last few years. The first solid state solar cell was reported in 2012. Over the years, the power conversion efficiencies of these devices have increased at a tremendous pace and this has made the perovskite solar cell devices a serious competitor in the well-established market of thin-film and wafer technologies. Over time, a large number of articles on this topic has been published in peer-reviewed journals. The presence of lead in the most efficient hybrid perovskite materials have raised questions about the possible toxicity of these devices and the extent of their environmental impact. Therefore, a lot of research has been devoted to finding alternative perovskite materials with similar or even better opto-electronic properties. An alternative strategy to improve the efficiency of thin film solar cells is to build efficient tandem cells by combining two or more perovskite materials with specifically tailored band gaps. The first step towards the development of perovskite-only tandem solar cells is to identify complementary hybrid perovskite materials with specific band gaps that maximize the efficiency of tandem solar cells. The optimal set of optical gaps for a tandem structure made of two materials is 1.9 eV and 1.0 eV. Since the electronic properties of hybrid perovskites are known to be strongly dependent on the composition and distortion of the crystal lattice, strong focus has been made towards the structure optimisation as well as the calculation of the energy band gaps of the materials using density functional theory (DFT). In an attempt to study the structure-property relationship of these perovskite materials and to find novel perovskite materials for future applications, researchers have employed computational screening procedures to study a large range of these materials by systematic replacement of the cations and anions from the prototypical perovskite. Density functional theory in particular is used as a theoretical tool, because of it’s precision to determine the properties of materials and also it’s computational viability in dealing with complex systems. In this thesis, the main focus is to do a systematic screening of the perovskite materials, of the composition ABX3 again by replacing the A-site, B-site and the X-site elements to find novel materials with band gaps suitable for application in tandem solar cells. As a first step towards contributing to this vibrant field of research, a high-throughput computational screening has been performed by replacing the metal and the halogen in the conventional CH3NH3PbI3 perovskites with homovalent metals and halogens to find materials in the desired range of band gaps that has already been mentioned earlier. This is achieved by performing a geometry optimisation on all the simulated structures followed by calculating their energy band gaps at the semilocal and the hybrid levels of theory. However, it is well known that the rotation of the organic cation CH3NH3 hinders the stability of these devices by the formation of hydrogen bonds between the hydrogen atoms of the cation and the halogens. This causes the materials to degrade under normal temperature and pressure conditions. As an attempt to prevent these devices from being unstable, a next step has been taken where the CH3NH3 cation has been replaced by inorganic cations of similar ionic radius. This is followed by another thorough screening, similar to the previous step. The stability of the materials has been determined by using the empirical Goldschmidt tolerance factor. As a last part of the thesis, a small proportion of the inorganic cation is mixed with CH3NH3 in order to form mixed-halide perovskites. These structures are optimised and their band gaps are calculated using density functional theory in order to predict materials suitable for single junction as well as tandem solar cell devices. It is expected that the contribution made through this thesis will be helpful for the progress of perovskite solar cells in terms of efficiencies and will also allow the community to explore the different properties these materials for further progress and development. KW - Solar cells KW - Perovskites KW - Density functional theory KW - hybrid KW - inorganic Y1 - ER - TY - THES A1 - Günther, Erika T1 - Intracellular processes in magnetotactic bacteria studied by optical tools Y1 - ER - TY - THES A1 - Frede, Katja T1 - Light-modulated biosynthesis of carotenoids in Brassica rapa ssp. chinensis and the activation of Nrf2 by lutein in human retinal pigment epithelial cells Y1 - 2018 ER -