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This article describes the synthesis of anionic polymer brushes and their mineralization with calcium phosphate. The brushes are based on poly(3-sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt) providing a highly charged polymer brush surface. Homogeneous brushes with reproducible thicknesses are obtained via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization. Mineralization with doubly concentrated simulated body fluid yields polymer/inorganic hybrid films containing AB-Type carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHAP), a material resembling the inorganic component of bone. Moreover, growth experiments using Dictyostelium discoideum amoebae demonstrate that the mineral-free and the mineral-containing polymer brushes have a good biocompatibility suggesting their use as biocompatible surfaces in implantology or related fields.
Biomimetic synthesis of chiral erbium-doped silver/peptide/silica core-shell nanoparticles (ESPN)
(2011)
Peptide-modified silver nanoparticles have been coated with an erbium-doped silica layer using a method inspired by silica biomineralization. Electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering confirm the presence of an Ag/peptide core and silica shell. The erbium is present as small Er(2)O(3) particles in and on the silica shell. Raman, IR, UV-Vis, and circular dichroism spectroscopies show that the peptide is still present after shell formation and the nanoparticles conserve a chiral plasmon resonance. Magnetic measurements find a paramagnetic behavior. In vitro tests using a macrophage cell line model show that the resulting multicomponent nanoparticles have a low toxicity for macrophages, even on partial dissolution of the silica shell.
The synthesis of Co-NPs and Mn-NPs by microwave-induced decomposition of the metal carbonyls Co-2(CO)(8) and Mn-2(CO)(10), respectively, yields smaller and better separated particles in the functionalized IL 1-methyl-3-(3-carboxyethyl)-imidazolium tetrafluoroborate [EmimCO(2)H][BF4] (1.6 +/- 0.3 nm and 4.3 +/- 1.0 nm, respectively) than in the non-functionalized IL 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [Bmim][BF4]. The particles are stable in the absence of capping ligands (surfactants) for more than six months although some variation in particle size could be observed by TEM.
Amphiphilic alkyl-poly(ethyleneimine)s (alkyl-PEI) with different degrees of polymerization have been produced by alkaline hydrolysis of alkyl-poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline). Potentiometric titration of the alkyl-PEI shows the influence of the alkyl chain and the degree of polymerization on the titration curves and hence on the polymer conformation. Karl Fischer titration has been used to determine the water content in the polymers. Subsequent X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements prove the existence of different hydration states of the PEI even under dry storage conditions. Upon cooling from hot aqueous Solutions, hydrogels form. The gelation concentration decreases with increasing degree of polymerization of the PEI segment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM and cryo-SEM) of the hydrogels reveal an alkyl-PEI fibrous network composed of fan-like units. DSC shows that the percentages of bound and free water in the hydrogels depend on the concentration of polar amino groups.
Mesoporous, highly structured silicon carbide (beta-SiC) was synthesised from renewable plant materials (two Equisetaceae species) in a one-step carbothermal process at remarkably low temperatures down to 1200 degrees C. The SiC precursor is a silicon-carbon mixture with finely dispersed carbon prepared by pyrolysis of the organic plant matrix. Yields are 3 to 100% (omega(Si/Si) related to the silicon deposited in the plant material), depending on reaction temperature and time. IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and nitrogen sorption prove the formation of high-purity beta-SiC with minor inorganic impurities after purification and a high specific surface area of up to 660 m(2) g(-1). Scanning electron microscopy shows that the plant morphology is maintained in the final SiC. Sedimentation analysis finds a mean particle size (diameters d(50)) of 20 mu m.
Advanced catalysis triggered by photothermal conversion effects has aroused increasing interest due to its huge potential in environmental purification.
In this work, we developed a novel approach to the fast degradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-Nip) using porous MoS2 nanoparticles as catalysts, which integrate the intrinsic catalytic property of MoS2 with its photothermal conversion capability.
Using assembled polystyrene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) block copolymers as soft templates, various MoS 2 particles were prepared, which exhibited tailored morphologies (e.g., pomegranate-like, hollow, and open porous structures).
The photothermal conversion performance of these featured particles was compared under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation.
Intriguingly, when these porous MoS2 particles were further employed as catalysts for the reduction of 4-Nip, the reaction rate constant was increased by a factor of 1.5 under NIR illumination.
We attribute this catalytic enhancement to the open porous architecture and light-to-heat conversion performance of the MoS2 particles. This contribution offers new opportunities for efficient photothermal-assisted catalysis.
Composition inversion takes place in equimolar solid mixtures of sodium or ammonium carbonate and calcium chloride with respect to the combination of anions and cations leading to the corresponding chloride and calcite in complete conversion. The transformation takes place spontaneously under a variety of different situations, even in a powdery mixture resting under ambient conditions. Powder X-ray diffraction data and scanning electron microscopy micrographs are presented to describe the course of the reaction and to characterize the reaction products. The incomplete reaction in the interspace between two compressed tablets of pure starting materials leads to an electric potential due to the presence of uncompensated charges.
New mesoporous silk fibroin (SF)/silica hybrids were processed via a one-pot soft and energy-efficient sol-gel chemistry and self-assembly from a silica precursor, an acidic or basic catalyst, and the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, acting as both solvent and mesoporosity-inducer. The as-prepared materials were obtained as slightly transparent-opaque, amorphous monoliths, easily transformed into powders, and stable up to ca. 300 degrees C. Structural data suggest the formation of a hexagonal mesostructure with low range order and apparent surface areas, pore volumes, and pore radii of 205-263 m(2) g(-1), 0.16-0.19 cm(3) g(-1), and 1.2-1.6 nm, respectively. In all samples, the dominating conformation of the SF chains is the beta-sheet. Cytotoxicity/bioactivity resazurin assays and fluorescence microscopy demonstrate the high viability of MC3T3 pre-osteoblasts to indirect (>= 99 +/- 9%) and direct (78 +/- 2 to 99 +/- 13%) contact with the SF/silica materials. Considering their properties and further improvements, these systems are promising candidates to be explored in bone tissue engineering. They also offer excellent prospects as electrolytes for solid-state electrochemical devices, in particular for fuel cells.
Biomimetic hybrid materials based on a polymeric and an inorganic component such as calcium phosphate are potentially useful for bone repair. The current study reports on a new approach toward biomimetic hybrid materials using a set of recombinamers (recombinant protein materials obtained from a synthetic gene) as crystallization additive for calcium phosphate. The recombinamers contain elements from elastin, an elastic structural protein, and statherin, a salivary protein. Via genetic engineering, the basic elastin sequence was modified with the SN(A)15 domain of statherin, whose interaction with calcium phosphate is well-established. These new materials retain the biocompatibility, "smart" nature, and desired mechanical behavior of the elastin-like recombinamer (ELR) family. Mineralization in simulated body fluid (SBF) in the presence of these recombinamers reveals surprising differences. Two of the polymers inhibit calcium phosphate deposition (although they contain the statherin segment). In contrast, the third polymer, which has a triblock structure, efficiently controls the calcium phosphate formation, yielding spherical hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticles with diameters from 1 to 3 nm after 1 week in SBF at 37 degrees C. However, at lower temperatures, no precipitation is observed with any of the polymers. The data thus suggest that the molecular design of ELRs containing statherin segments and the selection of an appropriate polymer structure are key parameters to obtain functional materials for the development of intelligent systems for hard tissue engineering and subsequent in vivo applications.
Cellulose/calcium phosphate hybrid materials were synthesized via an ionic liquid-assisted route. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis show that, depending on the reaction conditions, cellulose/hydroxyapatite, cellulose/ chlorapatite, or cellulose/monetite composites form. Preliminary studies with MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts show that the cells proliferate on the hybrid materials suggesting that the ionic liquid-based process yields materials that are potentially useful as scaffolds for regenerative therapies.
The article describes a systematic investigation of the effects of an aqueous NaOH treatment of 3D printed poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds for surface activation. The PLA surface undergoes several morphology changes and after an initial surface roughening, the surface becomes smoother again before the material dissolves. Erosion rates and surface morphologies can be controlled by the treatment. At the same time, the bulk mechanical properties of the treated materials remain unaltered. This indicates that NaOH treatment of 3D printed PLA scaffolds is a simple, yet viable strategy for surface activation without compromising the mechanical stability of PLA scaffolds.
The article describes a systematic investigation of the effects of an aqueous NaOH treatment of 3D printed poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds for surface activation. The PLA surface undergoes several morphology changes and after an initial surface roughening, the surface becomes smoother again before the material dissolves. Erosion rates and surface morphologies can be controlled by the treatment. At the same time, the bulk mechanical properties of the treated materials remain unaltered. This indicates that NaOH treatment of 3D printed PLA scaffolds is a simple, yet viable strategy for surface activation without compromising the mechanical stability of PLA scaffolds.
The article describes a systematic investigation of the effects of an aqueous NaOH treatment of 3D printed poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds for surface activation. The PLA surface undergoes several morphology changes and after an initial surface roughening, the surface becomes smoother again before the material dissolves. Erosion rates and surface morphologies can be controlled by the treatment. At the same time, the bulk mechanical properties of the treated materials remain unaltered. This indicates that NaOH treatment of 3D printed PLA scaffolds is a simple, yet viable strategy for surface activation without compromising the mechanical stability of PLA scaffolds.
The article describes the surface modification of 3D printed poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds with calcium phosphate (CP)/gelatin and CP/chitosan hybrid coating layers. The presence of gelatin or chitosan significantly enhances CP co-deposition and adhesion of the mineral layer on the PLA scaffolds. The hydrogel/CP coating layers are fairly thick and the mineral is a mixture of brushite, octacalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite. Mineral formation is uniform throughout the printed architectures and all steps (printing, hydrogel deposition, and mineralization) are in principle amenable to automatization. Overall, the process reported here therefore has a high application potential for the controlled synthesis of biomimetic coatings on polymeric biomaterials.
The article describes the surface modification of 3D printed poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds with calcium phosphate (CP)/gelatin and CP/chitosan hybrid coating layers. The presence of gelatin or chitosan significantly enhances CP co-deposition and adhesion of the mineral layer on the PLA scaffolds. The hydrogel/CP coating layers are fairly thick and the mineral is a mixture of brushite, octacalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite. Mineral formation is uniform throughout the printed architectures and all steps (printing, hydrogel deposition, and mineralization) are in principle amenable to automatization. Overall, the process reported here therefore has a high application potential for the controlled synthesis of biomimetic coatings on polymeric biomaterials.
The report shows that simple LbL deposition of positively charged chitosan and negatively charged heparin can be used to efficiently modify the native surface of both NiTi and Ti without any previous treatments. Moreover, mineralization of the polymer multilayers with calcium phosphate leads to surfaces with low contact angles around 70 and 20 degrees for NiTi and Ti, respectively. This suggests that a polymer multilayer/calcium phosphate hybrid coating could be useful for making NiTi or Ti implants that are at the same time antibacterial (via the chitosan), suppress blood clot formation (via the heparin), and favor fast endothelialization (via the improved surface hydrophilicity compared to the respective neat material).
Calcium phosphate mineralization from aqueous solution in the presence of organic growth modifiers has been intensely studied in the recent past. This is mostly due to potential applications of the resulting composites in the biomaterials field. Polymers in particular are efficient growth modifiers. As a result, there has been a large amount of work on polymeric growth modifiers. Interestingly, however, relatively little work has been done on polycationic additives. The current paper shows that poly(ethylene oxide)b-poly(L-lysine) block copolymers lead to an interesting morphology of calcium phosphate precipitated at room temperature and subjected to a mild heat treatment at 85 degrees C. Electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray diffraction, and porosity analysis show that a (somewhat) porous material with channel-like features forms. Closer inspection using transmission electron microscopy shows that the channels are probably not real channels. Much rather the morphology is the result of the aggregation of ca. 100-nm-sized rodlike primary particles, which changes upon drying to exhibit the observed channel-like features. Comparison experiments conducted in the absence of polymer and with poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(L-glutamate) show that these features only form in the presence of the polycationic poly(L-lysine) block, suggesting a distinct interaction of the polycation with either the crystal or the phosphate ions prior to mineralization.
Covalently crosslinked PEI hydrogels are efficient templates for calcium phosphate mineralization in SBF. In contrast to the PEI hydrogels, non-crosslinked PEI does not lead to calcium phosphate nucleation and growth in SBF. The precipitate is a mixture of brushite and hydroxyapatite. The PEI/calcium phosphate composite material exhibits a sponge like morphology and a chemical composition that is interesting for implants. Cytotoxicity tests using Dictyostelium discoideum amoebae show that both the non-mineralized and mineralized hydrogels have a very low cytotoxicity. This suggests that next generation PEI hydrogels, where also the degradation products are non-toxic, could be interesting for biomedical applications.
We have earlier shown that linear poly(ethylene imine) (LPEI) is an efficient growth modifier for calcium phosphate mineralization from aqueous solution (Shkilnyy et al., Langmuir, 2008, 24 (5), 2102). The current study addresses the growth process and the reason why LPEI is such an effective additive. To that end, the solution pH and the calcium and phosphate concentrations were monitored vs. reaction time using potentiometric, complexometric, and photometric methods. The phase transformations in the precipitates and particle morphogenesis were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. All measurements reveal steep decreases of the pH, calcium, and phosphate concentrations along with a rapid precipitation of brushite nanoparticles early on in the reaction. Brushite transforms into hydroxyapatite (HAP) within the first 2 h, which is much faster than what is reported, for example, for calcium phosphate precipitated with poly(acrylic acid). We propose that poly(ethylene imine) acts as a proton acceptor (weak buffer), which accelerates the transformation from brushite to HAP by taking up the protons that are released from the calcium phosphate precipitate during the phase transformation.
New hybrid materials have been prepared by grafting synthetic peptides in the interlayer spacing of Cu(II) and Co(II) layered simple hydroxides (LSHs). The interlayer spacing of the hybrids depends on the peptide chain length; the dependence is specific for the copper and cobalt-based hybrids. This suggests a metal-or LSH-specific interaction of the peptides with the respective inorganic layers. When tyrosine is present in the peptide, its fluorescence is quenched after grafting the peptide to the LSH. Studies of the luminescence vs. pH indicate deprotonation of the tyrosine moieties to tyrosinate at high pH, accompanied by the onset of luminescence. The luminescence increases with increasing OH- concentration, suggesting an application of the hybrids as chemical sensors. Moreover, the peptides influence the magnetic properties of the hybrids. The copper-based hybrids behave antiferromagnetically and the cobalt-based hybrids are ferrimagnets.
Luminescent Ionogels with Excellent Transparency, High Mechanical Strength, and High Conductivity
(2020)
The paper describes a new kind of ionogel with both good mechanical strength and high conductivity synthesized by confining the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide ([Bmim][NTf₂]) within an organic–inorganic hybrid host. The organic–inorganic host network was synthesized by the reaction of methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS), tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), and methyl methacrylate (MMA) in the presence of a coupling agent, offering the good mechanical strength and rapid shape recovery of the final products. The silane coupling agent 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH-570) plays an important role in improving the mechanical strength of the inorganic–organic hybrid, because it covalently connected the organic component MMA and the inorganic component SiO₂. Both the thermal stability and mechanical strength of the ionogel significantly increased by the addition of IL. The immobilization of [Bmim][NTf₂] within the ionogel provided the final ionogel with an ionic conductivity as high as ca. 0.04 S cm⁻¹ at 50 °C. Moreover, the hybrid ionogel can be modified with organosilica-modified carbon dots within the network to yield a transparent and flexible ionogel with strong excitation-dependent emission between 400 and 800 nm. The approach is, therefore, a blueprint for the construction of next-generation multifunctional ionogels.
Luminescent Ionogels with Excellent Transparency, High Mechanical Strength, and High Conductivity
(2020)
The paper describes a new kind of ionogel with both good mechanical strength and high conductivity synthesized by confining the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide ([Bmim][NTf₂]) within an organic–inorganic hybrid host. The organic–inorganic host network was synthesized by the reaction of methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS), tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), and methyl methacrylate (MMA) in the presence of a coupling agent, offering the good mechanical strength and rapid shape recovery of the final products. The silane coupling agent 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH-570) plays an important role in improving the mechanical strength of the inorganic–organic hybrid, because it covalently connected the organic component MMA and the inorganic component SiO₂. Both the thermal stability and mechanical strength of the ionogel significantly increased by the addition of IL. The immobilization of [Bmim][NTf₂] within the ionogel provided the final ionogel with an ionic conductivity as high as ca. 0.04 S cm⁻¹ at 50 °C. Moreover, the hybrid ionogel can be modified with organosilica-modified carbon dots within the network to yield a transparent and flexible ionogel with strong excitation-dependent emission between 400 and 800 nm. The approach is, therefore, a blueprint for the construction of next-generation multifunctional ionogels.
Klassischerweise haben Salze, beispielsweise Kochsalz, Schmelzpunkte von einigen hundert Grad Celsius und mehr. Ionische Flüssigkeiten sind dagegen Salze, deren Schmelzpunkt zum Teil weit unter der Raumtemperatur liegt. Sie sind daher bei Raumtemperatur flüssig. Obwohl ionische Flüssigkeiten seit 1914 bekannt sind, hatten sie bis vor 15 Jahren keinerlei Bedeutung. Heute jedoch werden ionische Flüssigkeiten aufgrund ihrer vorteilhaften Eigenschaften, wie hohe Leitfähigkeit oder hohe Temperaturstabilität, unter anderem zur Papierverarbeitung oder in flexiblen Solarzellen eingesetzt. Die Antrittsvorlesung wird sich insbesondere mit der Herstellung anorganischer Partikel befassen und zeigen, wie ionische Flüssigkeiten zur Herstellung neuer Materialien für verschiedene Anwendungen genutzt werden können.
Ionogels (IGs), also termed ion gels, are functional hybrid materials based on an ionic liquid (IL) and a polymeric, hybrid, or inorganic matrix. IGs combine the properties of the matrix such as mechanical strength with IL properties like high ionic conductivity, high thermal stability, or catalytic activity. IGs are thus attractive for many applications, but the vast majority of IGs made and published so far are bulk materials or dense films. Applications like sensing or catalysis, however, would benefit from IGs with high surface areas or defined surface morphologies or architectures. In spite of this, only relatively few examples of high-surface-area IGs have been made so far; this has mostly been achieved by electrospinning, which has proven to be a promising strategy towards advanced IGs. The current review discusses first developments and outlines the future potential of electrospun ionogels, predominantly from a materials and inorganic chemistry perspective.
The effect of cellulose-based polyelectrolytes on biomimetic calcium phosphate mineralization is described. Three cellulose derivatives, a polyanion, a polycation, and a polyzwitterion were used as additives. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, IR and Raman spectroscopy show that, depending on the composition of the starting solution, hydroxyapatite or brushite precipitates form. Infrared and Raman spectroscopy also show that significant amounts of nitrate ions are incorporated in the precipitates. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy shows that the Ca/P ratio varies throughout the samples and resembles that of other bioinspired calcium phosphate hybrid materials. Elemental analysis shows that the carbon (i.e., polymer) contents reach 10% in some samples, clearly illustrating the formation of a true hybrid material. Overall, the data indicate that a higher polymer concentration in the reaction mixture favors the formation of polymer-enriched materials, while lower polymer concentrations or high precursor concentrations favor the formation of products that are closely related to the control samples precipitated in the absence of polymer. The results thus highlight the potential of (water-soluble) cellulose derivatives for the synthesis and design of bioinspired and bio-based hybrid materials.
The effect of cellulose-based polyelectrolytes on biomimetic calcium phosphate mineralization is described. Three cellulose derivatives, a polyanion, a polycation, and a polyzwitterion were used as additives. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, IR and Raman spectroscopy show that, depending on the composition of the starting solution, hydroxyapatite or brushite precipitates form. Infrared and Raman spectroscopy also show that significant amounts of nitrate ions are incorporated in the precipitates. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy shows that the Ca/P ratio varies throughout the samples and resembles that of other bioinspired calcium phosphate hybrid materials. Elemental analysis shows that the carbon (i.e., polymer) contents reach 10% in some samples, clearly illustrating the formation of a true hybrid material. Overall, the data indicate that a higher polymer concentration in the reaction mixture favors the formation of polymer-enriched materials, while lower polymer concentrations or high precursor concentrations favor the formation of products that are closely related to the control samples precipitated in the absence of polymer. The results thus highlight the potential of (water-soluble) cellulose derivatives for the synthesis and design of bioinspired and bio-based hybrid materials.
The article describes the synthesis and properties of new ionogels for ion transport. A new preparation process using an organic linker, bis(3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl) amine (BTMSPA), yields stable organosilica matrix materials. The second ionogel component, the ionic liquid 1-methyl-3-(4-sulfobutyl) imidazolium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate, [BmimSO(3)H][PTS], can easily be prepared with near-quantitative yields. [BmimSO(3)H][PTS] is the proton conducting species in the ionogel. By combining the stable organosilica matrix with the sulfonated ionic liquid, mechanically stable, and highly conductive ionogels with application potential in sensors or fuel cells can be prepared.
The sensing potential of CuO nanoparticles synthesized via. precipitation from a water/ionic liquid precursor (ILP) mixture was investigated. The particles have a moderate surface area of 66 m(2)/g after synthesis, which decreases upon thermal treatment to below 5 m(2)/g. Transmission electron microscopy confirms crystal growth upon annealing, likely due to sintering effects. The as-synthesized particles can be used for ethanol sensing. The respective sensors show fast response and recovery times of below 10 s and responses greater than 2.3 at 100 ppm of ethanol at 200 degrees C, which is higher than any CuO-based ethanol sensor described so far.
Silver nanoparticles (SNP) are among the most commercialized nanoparticles. Here, we show that peptide-coated SNP cause functional impairment of human macrophages. A dose-dependent inhibition of phagocytosis is observed after nanoparticle treatment, and pretreatment of cells with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) can counteract the phagocytosis disturbances caused by SNP.
Using the surface-sensitive mode of time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, in combination with multivariate statistical methods, we studied the composition of cell membranes in human macrophages upon exposure to SNP with and without NAC preconditioning. This method revealed characteristic changes in the lipid pattern of the cellular membrane outer leaflet in those cells challenged by SNP. Statistical analyses resulted in 19 characteristic ions, which can be used to distinguish between NAC pretreated and untreated macrophages. The present study discusses the assignments of surface cell membrane phospholipids for the identified ions and the resulting changes in the phospholipid pattern of treated cells. We conclude that the adverse effects in human macrophages caused by SNP can be partially reversed through NAC administration. Some alterations, however, remained.
Industrialized food production is in urgent search for alternative packaging materials, which can serve the requirements of a globalized world in terms of longer product shelf lives, reduced freight weight to decrease transport costs, and better barrier functionality to preserve its freshness. Polymer materials containing organically modified nano clay particles as additives are one example for a new generation of packaging materials with specific barrier functionality to actually hit the market. Clay types used for these applications are aluminosilicates, which belong to the mineral group of phyllosilicates. These consist of nano-scaled thin platelets, which are organically modified with quaternary ammonium compounds acting as spacers between the different clay layers, thereby increasing the hydrophobicity of the mineral additive. A variety of different organically modified clays are already available, and the use as additive for food packaging materials is one important application. To ensure valid risk assessments of emerging nano composite polymers used in the food packaging industry, exact analytical characterization of the organically modified clay within the polymer matrix is of paramount importance. Time-of-flight SIMS in combination with multivariate statistical analysis was used to differentiate modified clay reference materials from another. Time-of-flight SIMS spectra of a reference polymer plate, which contained one specific nano clay composite, were acquired. For each modified clay additive, a set of characteristic diagnostic ions could be identified, which then was used to successfully assign unknown clay additives to the corresponding reference material. Thus, the described methodology could be used to define and characterize nano clay within polymer matrices. Copyright (c) 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The formation of CuCl nanoplatelets from the ionic liquid precursor (ILP) butylpyridinium tetrachlorocuprate [C4Py](2)[CuCl4] using ascorbic acid as a reducing agent was investigated. In particular, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was used to evaluate the interaction between ascorbic acid and the Cu(II) ion before reduction to Cu(I). EPR spectroscopy suggests that the [CuCl4](2-) ion in the neat IL is a distorted tetrahedron, consistent with DFT calculations. Addition of ascorbic acid leads to the removal of one chloride from the [CuCl4](2-) anion, as shown by DFT and the loss of symmetry by EPR. DFT furthermore suggests that the most stable adduct is formed when only one hydroxyl group of the ascorbic acid coordinates to the Cu(II) ion.
Efficiencies >20% are obtained from the perovskite solar cells (PSCs) employing Cs+ and Rb+ based perovskite compositions; therefore, it is important to understand the effect of these inorganic cations specifically Rb+ on the properties of perovskite structures. Here the influence of Cs+ and Rb+ is elucidated on the structural, morphological, and photophysical properties of perovskite structures and the photovoltaic performances of resulting PSCs. Structural, photoluminescence (PL), and external quantum efficiency studies establish the incorporation of Cs+ (x < 10%) but amply rule out the possibility of Rb-incorporation into the MAPbI(3) (MA = CH3NH3+) lattice. Moreover, morphological studies and time-resolved PL show that both Cs+ and Rb+ detrimentally affect the surface coverage of MAPbI(3) layers and charge-carrier dynamics, respectively, by influencing nucleation density and by inducing nonradiative recombination. In addition, differential scanning calorimetry shows that the transition from orthorhombic to tetragonal phase occurring around 160 K requires more thermal energy for the Cs-containing MAPbI(3) systems compared to the pristine MAPbI(3). Investigation including mixed halide (I/Br) and mixed cation A-cation based compositions further confirms the absence of Rb+ from the 3D-perovskite lattice. The fundamental insights gained through this work will be of great significance to further understand highly promising perovskite compositions.
Visible-Light-Mediated Photodynamic Water Disinfection @ Bimetallic-Doped Hybrid Clay Nanocomposites
(2019)
This study reports a new class of photocatalytic hybrid clay nanocomposites prepared from low-cost sources (kaolinite clay and Carica papaya seeds) doped with Zn and Cu salts via a solvothermal process. X-ray diffraction analysis suggests that Cu-doping and Cu/Zn-doping introduce new phases into the crystalline structure of Kaolinite clay, which is linked to the reduced band gap of kaolinite from typically between 4.9 and 8.2 eV to 2.69 eV for Cu-doped and 1.5 eV for Cu/Zn hybrid clay nanocomposites (Nisar, J.; Arhammar, C.; Jamstorp, E.; Ahuja, R. Phys. Rev. B 2011, 84, 075120). In the presence of solar light irradiation, Cu- and Cu/Zn-doped nanocomposites facilitate the electron hole pair separation. This promotes the generation of singlet oxygen which in turn improves the water disinfection efficiencies of these novel nanocomposite materials. The nanocomposite materials were further characterized using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, fluorimetry, therrnogravimetric analysis, and Raman spectroscopy. The breakthrough times of the nanocomposites for a fixed bed mode of disinfection of water contaminated with 2.32 x 10(7) cfu/mL E. coli ATCC 25922 under solar light irradiation are 25 h for Zn-doped, 30 h for Cu-doped, and 35 h for Cu/Zn-doped nanocomposites. In the presence of multidrug and multimetal resistant strains of E. coli, the breakthrough time decreases significantly. Zn-only doped nanocomposites are not photocatalytically active. In the absence of light, the nanocomposites are still effective in decontaminating water, although less efficient than under solar light irradiation. Electrostatic interaction, metal toxicity, and release of singlet oxygen (only in the Cu-doped and Cu/Zn-doped nanocomposites) are the three disinfection mechanisms by which these nanocomposites disinfect water. A regrowth study indicates the absence of any living E. coli cells in treated water even after 4 days. These data and the long hydraulic times (under gravity) exhibited by these nanocomposites during photodisinfection of water indicate an unusually high potential of these nanocomposites as efficient, affordable, and sustainable point-of-use systems for the disinfection of water in developing countries.
New hybrid clay materials with good affinity for phosphate ions were developed from a combination of biomass-Carica papaya seeds (PS) and Musa paradisiaca (Plantain peels-PP), ZnCl2 and Kaolinite clay to produce iPS-HYCA and iPP-HYCA composite adsorbents respectively. Functionalization of these adsorbents with an organosilane produced NPS-HYCA and NPP-HYCA composite adsorbents. The pH(pzc) for the adsorbents were 7.83, 6.91, 7.66 and 6.55 for iPS-HYCA, NPS-HYCA, iPP-HYCA and NPP-HYCA respectively. Using the Brouer-Sotolongo isotherm model which best predict the adsorption capacity of composites for phosphate, iPP-HYCA, iPS-HYCA, NPP-HYCA, and NPS-HYCA composite adsorbents respectively. When compared with some commercial resins, the amino-functionalized adsorbents had better adsorption capacities. Furthermore, amino-functionalized adsorbents showed improved adsorption capacity and rate of phosphate uptake (as much as 40-fold), as well as retain 94% (for NPS-HYCA) and 84.1% (for NPP-HYCA) efficiency for phosphate adsorption after 5 adsorption-desorption cycles (96 h of adsorption time with 100 mg/L of phosphate ions) as against 37.5% (for iPS-HYCA) and 35% (for iPP-HYCA) under similar conditions. In 25 min desorption of phosphate ion attained equilibrium. These new amino-functionalized hybrid clay composite adsorbents, which were prepared by a simple means that is sustainable, have potentials for the efficient capture of phosphate ions from aqueous solution. They are quickly recovered from aqueous solution, non-biodegradable (unlike many biosorbent) with potentials to replace expensive adsorbents in the future. They have the further advantage of being useful in the recovery of phosphate for use in agriculture which could positively impact the global food security programme. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
New hybrid clay adsorbent based on kaolinite clay and Carica papaya seeds with improved cation exchange capacity (CEC), rate of heavy metal ion uptake, and adsorption capacity for heavy metal ions were prepared. The CEC of the new material is ca. 75 meq/100 g in spite of the unexpectedly low surface area (approximate to 19 m(2)/g). Accordingly, the average particle size of the hybrid clay adsorbent decreased from over 200 to 100 pm. The hybrid clay adsorbent is a highly efficient adsorbent for heavy metals. With an initial metal concentration of 1 mg/L, the hybrid clay adsorbent reduces the Cd2+, Ni2+, and Pb2+ concentration in aqueous solution to <= 4, <= 7 and <= 20 mu g/L, respectively, from the first minute to over 300 min using a fixed bed containing 2 g of adsorbent and a flow rate of approximate to 7 mL/min. These values are (with the exception of Pb2+) in line with the WHO permissible limits for heavy metal ions. In a cocktail solution of Cd2+, and Ni2+, the hybrid clay shows a reduced rate of uptake but an increased adsorption capacity. The CEC data suggest that the adsorption of Pb2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+ on the hybrid clay adsorbent is essentially due to ion exchange. This hybrid clay adsorbent is prepared from materials that are abundant and by a simple means that is sustainable, easily recovered from aqueous solution, nonbiodegradable (unlike numerous biosorbent), and easily regenerated and is a highly efficient alternative to activated carbon for water treatment.
Novel metal-doped bacteriostatic hybrid clay composites for point-of-use disinfection of water
(2017)
This study reports the facile microwave-assisted thermal preparation of novel metal-doped hybrid clay composite adsorbents consisting of Kaolinite clay, Carica papaya seeds and/or plantain peels (Musa paradisiaca) and ZnCl2. Fourier Transformed IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis are employed to characterize these composite adsorbents. The physicochemical analysis of these composites suggests that they act as bacteriostatic rather than bacteriacidal agents. This bacterostactic action is induced by the ZnO phase in the composites whose amount correlates with the efficacy of the composite. The composite prepared with papaya seeds (PS-HYCA) provides the best disinfection efficacy (when compared with composite prepared with Musa paradisiaca peels-PP-HYCA) against gram-negative enteric bacteria with a breakthrough time of 400 and 700 min for the removal of 1.5 x10(6) cfu/mL S. typhi and V. cholerae from water respectively. At 10(3) cfu/mL of each bacterium in solution, 2 g of both composite adsorbents kept the levels the bacteria in effluent solutions at zero for up to 24 h. Steam regeneration of 2 g of bacteria-loaded Carica papaya prepared composite adsorbent shows a loss of ca. 31% of its capacity even after the 3rd regeneration cycle of 25 h of service time. The composite adsorbent prepared with Carica papaya seeds will be useful for developing simple point-of-use water treatment systems for water disinfection application. This composite adsorbent is comparatively of good performance and shows relatively long hydraulic contact times and is expected to minimize energy intensive traditional treatment processes.
A new micro/mesoporous hybrid clay nanocomposite prepared from kaolinite clay, Carica papaya seeds, and ZnCl2 via calcination in an inert atmosphere is presented. Regardless of the synthesis temperature, the specific surface area of the nanocomposite material is between approximate to 150 and 300 m(2)/g. The material contains both micro- and mesopores in roughly equal amounts. X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy suggest the formation of several new bonds in the materials upon reaction of the precursors, thus confirming the formation of a new hybrid material. Thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis and elemental analysis confirm the presence of carbonaceous matter. The new composite is stable up to 900 degrees C and is an efficient adsorbent for the removal of a water micropollutant, 4-nitrophenol, and a pathogen, E. coli, from an aqueous medium, suggesting applications in water remediation are feasible.
A new micro/mesoporous hybrid clay nanocomposite prepared from kaolinite clay, Carica papaya seeds, and ZnCl2 via calcination in an inert atmosphere is presented. Regardless of the synthesis temperature, the specific surface area of the nanocomposite material is between ≈150 and 300 m2/g. The material contains both micro- and mesopores in roughly equal amounts. X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy suggest the formation of several new bonds in the materials upon reaction of the precursors, thus confirming the formation of a new hybrid material. Thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis and elemental analysis confirm the presence of carbonaceous matter. The new composite is stable up to 900 °C and is an efficient adsorbent for the removal of a water micropollutant, 4-nitrophenol, and a pathogen, E. coli, from an aqueous medium, suggesting applications in water remediation are feasible.
A new sulfonated aniline-modified poly(vinyl alcohol)/K-feldspar (SAPK) composite was prepared. The cation-exchange capacity of the composite was found to be S times that of neat feldspar. The specific surface area and point of zero charge also changed significantly upon modification, from 15.6 +/- 0.1 m(2)/g and 2.20 (K-feldspar) to 73.6 +/- 0.3 m(2)/g and 1.91 (SAPK). Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ adsorption was found to be largely independent of pH, and the metal adsorption rate on SAPK was higher than that on neat feldspar. This particularly applies to the initial adsorption rates. The adsorption process involves both film and pore diffusion; film diffusion initially controls the adsorption. The Freundlich and Langmuir models were found to fit metal-ion adsorption on SAPK most accurately. Adsorption on neat feldspar was best fitted with a Langmuir model, indicating the formation of adsorbate monolayers. Both pure feldspar and SAPK showed better selectivity for Pb2+ than for Cd2+ or Zn2+.
A class of adsorbents currently receiving growing attention is the clay-polymer nanocomposite (CPN) adsorbents. CPNs effectively treat water by adsorption and flocculation of both inorganic and organic micropollutants from aqueous solutions. Some of these CPNs - when modified with biocides - also have the ability to efficiently remove microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans from water. CPNs are far more easily recovered from aqueous media than neat clay. They also exhibit far better treatment times than either polymer or clay adsorbents. They have higher adsorption capacity and better life cycles compared with clay alone. CPNs therefore show an excellent potential as highly efficient water and waste treatment agents.
This article reviews the various CPNs that have been prepared recently and used as adsorbents in the removal of micropollutants (inorganic, organic and biological) from aqueous solutions. A special focus is placed on CPNs that are not only interesting from an academic point of view but also effectively reduce the concentration of micropollutants in water to safe limits and also on new developments bordering on CPN use as water treatment agent that have not yet realized their full potential. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Thin films of ferroelectric beta-phase poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) were spin-coated from a solution that contained small amounts of the ionic liquid (IL) 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium nitrate. A remanent polarization of 60 mC/m(2) and a quasi-static pyroelectric coefficient of 19 mu C/m(2)K at 30 degrees C were observed in the films. It is suggested that the IL promotes the formation of the beta phase through dipolar interactions between PVDF chain-molecules and the IL. The dipolar interactions are identified as Coulomb attraction between hydrogen atoms in PVDF chains and anions in IL. The strong crystallinity increase is probably caused by the same dipolar interaction as well.
We present and discuss the results of crystallographic and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic analyses of five tetrachloridocuprate(II) complexes to supply a useful tool for the structural characterisation of the [CuCl4](2-) moiety in the liquid state, for example in ionic liquids, or in solution. Bis(benzyltriethylammonium)-, bis(trimethylphenylammonium)-, bis(ethyltriphenylphosphonium)-, bis(benzyltriphenylphosphonium)-, and bis(tetraphenylarsonium) tetrachloridocuprate(II) were synthesised and characterised by elemental, IR, EPR and X-ray analyses. The results of the crystallographic analyses show distorted tetrahedral coordination geometry of all [CuCl4](2-) anions in the five complexes and prove that all investigated complexes are stabilised by hydrogen bonds of different intensities. Despite the use of sterically demanding ammonium, phosphonium and arsonium cations to obtain the separation of the paramagnetic Cu(II) centres for EPR spectroscopy no hyperfine structure was observed in the EPR spectra but the principal values of the electron Zeeman tensor, g(parallel to) and g(perpendicular to), could be determined. With these EPR data and the crystallographic parameters we were able to carry out a correlation study to anticipate the structural situation of tetrachloridocuprates in different physical states. This correlation is in good agreement with DFT calculations.
We present and discuss the results of crystallographic and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic analyses of five tetrachloridocuprate(II) complexes to supply a useful tool for the structural characterisation of the [CuCl4]2− moiety in the liquid state, for example in ionic liquids, or in solution. Bis(benzyltriethylammonium)-, bis(trimethylphenylammonium)-, bis(ethyltriphenylphosphonium)-, bis(benzyltriphenylphosphonium)-, and bis(tetraphenylarsonium)tetrachloridocuprate(II) were synthesised and characterised by elemental, IR, EPR and X-ray analyses. The results of the crystallographic analyses show distorted tetrahedral coordination geometry of all [CuCl4]2− anions in the five complexes and prove that all investigated complexes are stabilised by hydrogen bonds of different intensities. Despite the use of sterically demanding ammonium, phosphonium and arsonium cations to obtain the separation of the paramagnetic Cu(II) centres for EPR spectroscopy no hyperfine structure was observed in the EPR spectra but the principal values of the electron Zeeman tensor, g∥ and g⊥, could be determined. With these EPR data and the crystallographic parameters we were able to carry out a correlation study to anticipate the structural situation of tetrachloridocuprates in different physical states. This correlation is in good agreement with DFT calculations.
The use of acidic ionic liquids and solids as electrolytes in fuel cells is an emerging field due to their efficient proton conductivity and good thermal stability. Despite multiple reports describing conducting properties of acidic ILs, little is known on the charge-transport mechanism in the vicinity of liquid-glass transition and the structural factors governing the proton hopping. To address these issues, we studied two acidic imidazolium-based ILs with the same cation, however, different anions-bulk tosylate vs small methanesulfonate. High-pressure dielectric studies of anhydrous and water-saturated materials performed in the close vicinity of T-g have revealed significant differences in the charge-transport mechanism in these two systems being undetectable at ambient conditions. Thereby, we demonstrated the effect of molecular architecture on proton hopping, being crucial in the potential electrochemical applications of acidic ILs.
Transparent, ion-conducting, and flexible ionogels based on the room temperature ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl) imide [Bmim][N(Tf)(2)], the dye-IL (DIL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium methyl orange [Bmim][MO], and poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) are prepared. Upon IL incorporation the thermal stability of the PMMA matrix significantly increases from 220 to 280 degrees C. The ionogels have a relatively high ionic conductivity of 10(-4) S cm(-1) at 373 K. Most importantly, the ionogels exhibit a strong and reversible color change when exposed to aqueous or organic solutions containing protons or hydroxide ions. The resulting material is thus a prototype of soft multifunctional matter featuring ionic conductivity, easy processability, response to changes in the environment, and a strong readout signal, the color change, that could be used in optical data storage or environmental sensing.
The large-scale green synthesis of graphene-type two-dimensional materials is still challenging. Herein, we describe the ionothermal synthesis of carbon-based composites from fructose in the iron-containing ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloridoferrate(III), [Bmim][FeCl4] serving as solvent, catalyst, and template for product formation. The resulting composites consist of oligo-layer graphite nanoflakes and iron carbide particles. The mesoporosity, strong magnetic moment, and high specific surface area of the composites make them attractive for water purification with facile magnetic separation. Moreover, Fe3Cfree graphite can be obtained via acid etching, providing access to fairly large amounts of graphite material. The current approach is versatile and scalable, and thus opens the door to ionothermal synthesis towards the larger-scale synthesis of materials that are, although not made via a sustainable process, useful for water treatment such as the removal of organic molecules.
The large-scale green synthesis of graphene-type two-dimensional materials is still challenging. Herein, we describe the ionothermal synthesis of carbon-based composites from fructose in the iron-containing ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloridoferrate(III), [Bmim][FeCl4] serving as solvent, catalyst, and template for product formation. The resulting composites consist of oligo-layer graphite nanoflakes and iron carbide particles. The mesoporosity, strong magnetic moment, and high specific surface area of the composites make them attractive for water purification with facile magnetic separation. Moreover, Fe3Cfree graphite can be obtained via acid etching, providing access to fairly large amounts of graphite material. The current approach is versatile and scalable, and thus opens the door to ionothermal synthesis towards the larger-scale synthesis of materials that are, although not made via a sustainable process, useful for water treatment such as the removal of organic molecules.
The iron-containing ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroferrate(III) [Bmim][FeCl4] has been used as a building block in the synthesis of transparent, ion-conducting, and paramagnetic ionogels. UV/Vis spectroscopy shows that the coordination around the Fe(III) ion does slightly change upon incorporation of the IL into PMMA. The thermal stability of the PMMA increases significantly with IL incorporation. In particular, the onset weight loss observed at ca. 265 degrees C for pure PMMA is completely suppressed. The ionic conductivity shows a strong temperature dependence and increases with increasing IL weight fractions. The magnetic properties are similar to those reported for the pure IL and are not affected by the incorporation into the PMMA matrix. The resulting ionogel is thus an interesting prototype for soft, flexible, and transparent materials combining the mechanical properties of the matrix with the functionality of the metal-containing IL, such as magnetism.
The iron-containing ionic liquids 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroferrate(III) [C(4)mim][FeCl4] and 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroferrate(III) [C(12)mim][FeCl4] exhibit a thermally induced demixing with water (thermomorphism). The phase separation temperature varies with IL weight fraction in water and can be tuned between 100 degrees C and room temperature. The reversible lower critical solution temperature (LCST) is only observed at IL weight fractions below ca. 35% in water. UV/Vis, IR, and Raman spectroscopy along with elemental analysis prove that the yellow-brown liquid phase recovered after phase separation is the starting IL [C(4)mim][FeCl4] and [C(12)mim][FeCl4], respectively. Photometry and ICP-OES show that about 40% of iron remains in the water phase upon phase separation. Although the process is thus not very efficient at the moment, the current approach is the first example of an LCST behavior of a metal-containing IL and therefore, although still inefficient, a prototype for catalyst removal or metal extraction.
We report on the ionothermal synthesis of porous carbon materials from a variety of carbohydrate precursors (i.e. D-glucose, D-fructose, D-xylose, and starch) using 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachloroferrate(III), [Bmim][FeCl(4)] as a reusable solvent and catalyst. The carbon materials derived from these different carbohydrates are similar in terms of particle size and chemical composition, possessing relatively high surface areas from 44 to 155 m(2) g(-1) after ionothermal processing, which can be significantly increased to > 350 m(2) g(-1) by further thermal treatment (e. g. post-carbonization at 750 degrees C). CO(2) and N(2) sorption analysis, combined with Hg intrusion porosimetry, reveals a promising hierarchical pore structuring to these carbon materials. The ionic liquid [Bmim][FeCl(4)] has a triple role: it acts as both a soft template to generate the characterized pore structuring, solvent and as a catalyst resulting in enhanced ionothermal carbon yields. Importantly from a process point of view, the ionic liquid can be successfully recovered and reused. The current work shows that ionothermal synthesis has the potential to be an effective, low cost, and green reusable synthetic route towards sustainable porous carbon materials.
Transparent, ion-conducting, luminescent, and flexible ionogels based on the room temperature ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl) imide [Bmim][N(Tf)(2)], a PtEu2 chromophore, and poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) have been prepared. The thermal stability of the PMMA significantly increases with IL incorporation. In particular, the onset weight loss observed at ca. 229 degrees C for pure PMMA increases to 305 degrees C with IL addition. The ionogel has a high ionic conductivity of 10(-3) S cm(-1) at 373 K and exhibits a strong emission in the red with a long average luminescence decay time of tau = 890 mu s. The resulting material is a new type of soft hybrid material featuring useful thermal, optical, and ion transport properties.
Commercially available 1,2-PB was transformed into a well-defined reactive intermediate by quantitative bromination. The brominated polymer was used as a polyfunctional macroinitiator for the cationic ring-opening polymerization of 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline to yield a water-soluble brush polymer. Nucleophilic substitution of bromide by 1-methyl imidazole resulted in the formation of polyelectrolyte copolymers consisting of mixed units of imidazolium, bromo, and double bond. These copolymers, which were soluble in water without forming aggregates, were used as stabilizers in the heterophase polymerization of styrene and were also studied for their ionic conducting properties.
Ionogels (IGs) based on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and the metal-containing ionic liquids (ILs) bis-1-butyl-3-methlimidazolium tetrachloridocuprate(II), tetrachloride cobaltate(II), and tetrachlorido manganate(II) have been synthesized and their mechanical and electrical properties have been correlated with their microstructure. Unlike many previous examples, the current IGs show a decreasing stability in stress-strain experiments on increasing IL fractions. The conductivities of the current IGs are lower than those observed in similar examples in the literature. Both effects are caused by a two-phase structure with micrometer-sized IL-rich domains homogeneously dispersed an IL-deficient continuous PMMA phase. This study demonstrates that the IL-polymer miscibility and the morphology of the IGs are key parameters to control the (macroscopic) properties of IGs.
Ionogels (IGs) based on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and the metal-containing ionic liquids (ILs) bis-1-butyl-3-methlimidazolium tetrachloridocuprate(II), tetrachloride cobaltate(II), and tetrachlorido manganate(II) have been synthesized and their mechanical and electrical properties have been correlated with their microstructure. Unlike many previous examples, the current IGs show a decreasing stability in stress-strain experiments on increasing IL fractions. The conductivities of the current IGs are lower than those observed in similar examples in the literature. Both effects are caused by a two-phase structure with micrometer-sized IL-rich domains homogeneously dispersed an IL-deficient continuous PMMA phase. This study demonstrates that the IL-polymer miscibility and the morphology of the IGs are key parameters to control the (macroscopic) properties of IGs.
New ionogels (IGs) were prepared by combination of a series of sulfonate-based ionic liquids (ILs), 1-methyl-3-(4-sulfobutyl)imidazolium para-toluenesulfonate [BmimSO(3)][pTS], 1-methyl-1-butylpiperidiniumsulfonate para-toluenesul-fonate [BmpipSO(3)] [pTS], and 1-methyl-3-(4-sulfobutyl) imidazolium methylsulfonate [BmimSO(3)H][MeSO3] with a commercial stereolithography photoreactive resin. The article describes both the fundamental properties of the ILs and the resulting IGs. The IGs obtained from the ILs and the resin show high ionic conductivity of up to ca. 0.7.10(-4) S/cm at room temperature and 3.4-10(-3) S/cm at 90 degrees C. Moreover, the IGs are thermally stable to about 200 degrees C and mechanically robust. Finally, and most importantly, the article demonstrates that the IGs can be molded three-dimensionally using stereolithography. This provides, for the first time, access to IGs with complex 3D shapes with potential application in battery or fuel cell technology.
4-Methyl-1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazolium triiodide ionic liquid and its polymer poly(4-methyl-1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazolium) triiodide were prepared for the first time from their iodide precursors via the reaction of iodide (I-) with elemental iodine (I-2). The change from iodide to triiodide (I-3(-)) was found to introduce particular variations in the physical properties of these two compounds, including lower melting point/glass transition temperature and altered solubility. The compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, and their electrochemical properties examined in solution and in the solid-state. Compared with their iodide analogues, the triiodide salts exhibited lower electrical impedance and higher current in the cyclic voltammetry. We found that poly(4-methyl-1,2,4-triazolium triiodide) was proven to be a promising solid polymer electrolyte candidate. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Magnetic ionogels (MagIGs) were prepared from organosilane-coated iron oxide nanoparticles, N-isopropylacrylamide, and the ionic liquid trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium dicyanamide. The ionogels prepared with the silane-modified nanoparticles are more homogeneous than ionogels prepared with unmodified magnetite particles. The silane-modified particles are immobilized in the ionogel and are resistant tonanoparticle leaching. The modified particles also render the ionogels mechanically more stable than the ionogels synthesized with unmodified nanoparticles. The ionogels respond to external permanent magnets and are therefore prototypes of a new soft magnetic actuator.