Journal Description
C — Journal of Carbon Research
C
— Journal of Carbon Research is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal on carbon research, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.1 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.5 (2022)
Latest Articles
Effective Quantum Graph Models of Some Nonequilateral Graphyne Materials
C 2023, 9(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030076 - 08 Aug 2023
Abstract
It is shown that it is possible to adapt the quantum graph model of graphene to some types of nonequilateral graphynes considered in the literature; we also discuss the corresponding nanotubes. The proposed models are, in fact, effective models and are obtained through
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It is shown that it is possible to adapt the quantum graph model of graphene to some types of nonequilateral graphynes considered in the literature; we also discuss the corresponding nanotubes. The proposed models are, in fact, effective models and are obtained through selected boundary conditions and an ad hoc prescription. We analytically recover some results from the literature, in particular, the presence of Dirac cones for -, - and -graphynes; for -graphyne, our model presents a band gap (according to the literature), but only for a range of parameters, with a transition at a certain point with quadratic touch and then the presence of Dirac cones.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modelling of Size Effects in Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes)
Open AccessArticle
Electrical Resistance Evolution of Graphite and Talc Geological Heterostructures under Progressive Metamorphism
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, , , , , and
C 2023, 9(3), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030075 - 30 Jul 2023
Abstract
The electrical properties of isolated graphene established precedents for studies of electrical superconducting materials at room temperature. After the discovery of stabilized graphene and graphite nanoplatelets in a geological context, the interest in characterizing the properties of these minerals arose. This work evaluates
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The electrical properties of isolated graphene established precedents for studies of electrical superconducting materials at room temperature. After the discovery of stabilized graphene and graphite nanoplatelets in a geological context, the interest in characterizing the properties of these minerals arose. This work evaluates the electrical resistance evolution of mineral graphite and talc heterostructures under progressive metamorphism simulated in the laboratory. The experiments were conducted on an end-loaded piston-cylinder apparatus. This equipment allows for the application of equal pressure in all sample directions (lithostatic pressure) and heating, simulating geological phenomena. The behavior of two sets of mineral samples were compared: graphite and talc in billets and powder. Samples in billets were submitted to treatments at 400 °C and 4 kbar; 400 °C and 6 kbar; and 700 °C and 9 kbar. The powder samples were subjected to 700 °C and 9 kbar, with two ways of disposing the mineral powders (mixed and in adjacent contact) beyond 900 °C and 9 kbar (in adjacent contact). The results show that the samples in billets had lower electrical resistance when compared to the powder samples. The lowest electrical resistance was observed in the sample treated at 400 °C and 6 kbar, conditions that are consistent with metamorphic mineral assemblage observed in the field. Powdered samples showed better cleavage efficiency during the experiment, resulting in thinner flakes and even graphene, as pointed out by Raman spectroscopy. However, these flakes were not communicating, which resulted in high electrical resistance, due to the need for an electrical current to pass through the talc, resulting in a Joule effect. The maximum electrical resistance obtained in the experiment was obtained in the sample submitted to 900 °C, in which talc decomposed into other mineral phases that were even more electrically insulating. This work demonstrates that electrical resistance prospecting can be an efficient tool to identify potential target rocks with preserved mineral nanometric heterostructures that can form an important raw material for the nanotechnology industry.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocarbon-Based Composites and Their Thermal, Electrical, and Mechanical Properties)
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Graphene Oxide Membranes: Controlled Laser Reduction for Sensing Applications
C 2023, 9(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030074 - 30 Jul 2023
Abstract
Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has attracted attention as an active electrode material for flexible electrochemical devices due to its high electric conductivity and large surface area. Compared to other reduction processes, laser reduction is a precise, low-cost, and chemical-free process that is directly
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Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has attracted attention as an active electrode material for flexible electrochemical devices due to its high electric conductivity and large surface area. Compared to other reduction processes, laser reduction is a precise, low-cost, and chemical-free process that is directly applied to graphene oxide (GO) membranes. This study aims to develop rGO through laser irradiation for application as electrodes in thin flexible electrochemical sensors. Laser irradiation parameters will be optimized to achieve reduction of a low oxygen to carbon (O/C) ratio and surface impedance. The influence of humidity on the impedance of rGO electrodes will be studied. The observed instability of the rGO electrode is related to incomplete reduction and oxygenated defects involved in reduction. Partially removed oxygenated functional groups not only influence the impedance of the electrode but make it sensitive to the humidity of the working environment. The result provides references for GO’s laser reduction optimization, demonstrates the potential of applying rGO as an electrode in sensing applications, but also reveals the limitation of applying the laser reduced rGO electrode in a non-constant humidity environment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocarbon-Based Composites and Their Thermal, Electrical, and Mechanical Properties)
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Open AccessArticle
Graphene Oxide: A Comparison of Reduction Methods
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, , , , , and
C 2023, 9(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030073 - 27 Jul 2023
Abstract
This paper presents a comparison of traditional thermal and chemical reduction methods with more recent ionizing radiation reduction via gamma rays and electron beams (e-beams). For GO, all synthesis protocols were adapted to increase production scale and are a contribution of this work.
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This paper presents a comparison of traditional thermal and chemical reduction methods with more recent ionizing radiation reduction via gamma rays and electron beams (e-beams). For GO, all synthesis protocols were adapted to increase production scale and are a contribution of this work. The typical Raman D-band of the GO was prominent (ID/IG ratio increased sixfold). When comparing the GO reduction techniques, dramatic differences in efficiency and GO particle characteristics were observed. Although thermal and chemical reduction are effective reduction methods, as shown through the use of FTIR spectroscopy and the C/O ratio from EDS chemical analysis, the thermal process renders great weight losses, whereas chemical processing may involve the use of hazardous chemical compounds. On the other hand, comparing the gamma rays and e-beam for 80 kGy, the Raman spectra and chemical analysis suggested that the e-beam caused a greater GO reduction: C/O ratio from EDS of 5.4 and 4.1, respectively. In addition to being fast and effective, ionizing radiation reduction processes allow easier control of the reduction degree by adjusting the radiation dose. When the dose increased from 40 to 80 kGy, the Raman spectra and EDS showed that the ID/IG and C/O ratios increased by 15 and 116%, respectively.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced in Low Dimensional Carbon: Processing and Applications)
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Open AccessReview
Activated Carbon for Sepsis Prevention and Intervention: A Modern Way of Utilizing Old Therapies
C 2023, 9(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030072 - 25 Jul 2023
Abstract
(1) Background: Uncontrolled inflammation often contributes to life-threatening sepsis sequela such as multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and is accompanied by abnormal levels of pathological and damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs & DAMPs) in biological fluids. Activated carbon or charcoal (AC) of new generation with
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(1) Background: Uncontrolled inflammation often contributes to life-threatening sepsis sequela such as multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and is accompanied by abnormal levels of pathological and damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs & DAMPs) in biological fluids. Activated carbon or charcoal (AC) of new generation with ameliorated biocompatibility has spurred renewed interest in the regulation of these toxins’ levels in inflammation states. (2) Methods: We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Researchgate, and other sources for the relevant literature from 1550 B.C. till 2022 A.C. (3) Results: Laboratory and clinical investigations demonstrate that activated carbon or charcoal (AC) mitigates inflammation in different pathological states when applied orally, per rectum, or in a hemoperfusion system. AC protects the microbiome and bone marrow, acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant remedy, and recovers the plasmatic albumin structure. The mechanism of AC action is related to a non-selective (broad-range) or/and selective adsorption of PAMPs & DAMPs from biological fluids. A high-adsorptive capacity towards noxious substances and application of AC as early as possible seems paramount in inflammation treatment for preventing sepsis and/or multi-organ failure. (4) Conclusion: AC could be considered an adjunctive treatment for preventing sepsis and/or multi-organ failure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbons for Health and Environmental Protection)
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Open AccessArticle
Adsorption of Cobalt and Strontium Ions on Plant-Derived Activated Carbons: The Suggested Mechanisms
C 2023, 9(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030071 - 21 Jul 2023
Abstract
In this study, activated carbons derived from walnut shells (CA-N) and apple wood (CA-M) were used as adsorbents to remove cobalt(II) and strontium(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The novel materials were obtained using nitric acid (CA-Mox) and nitric acid/urea mixture (CA-Mox-u, CA-Nox-u) as
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In this study, activated carbons derived from walnut shells (CA-N) and apple wood (CA-M) were used as adsorbents to remove cobalt(II) and strontium(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The novel materials were obtained using nitric acid (CA-Mox) and nitric acid/urea mixture (CA-Mox-u, CA-Nox-u) as oxidizing agents. The physical–chemical characteristics of activated carbons were determined from nitrogen sorption isotherms, SEM-EDX, FTIR, pH metric titrations, the Boehm titration method and elemental analysis. The results of batch experiments indicate that maximum adsorption can be achieved in broad pH ranges: 4–8 for Co(II) and 4–10 for Sr(II). The maximum adsorption capacities of Co(II) and Sr(II) on oxidized activated carbons at pH = 4 are: CA-Mox, 0.085 and 0.076 mmol/g; CA-Mox-u, 0.056 and 0.041 mmol/g; and CA-Nox-u, 0.041 and 0.034 mmol/g, respectively. The mathematical models (pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion kinetic models, and Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich, and Temkin–Pyzhev isotherm models) were used to explain the adsorption kinetics, to study the adsorption mechanism and predict maximum adsorption capacity of the adsorbents. The adsorption mechanisms of toxic metal ions on activated carbons were proposed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbons for Health and Environmental Protection)
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Open AccessReview
Recent Advancements in Applications of Graphene to Attain Next-Level Solar Cells
C 2023, 9(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030070 - 19 Jul 2023
Abstract
This paper presents an intensive review covering all the versatile applications of graphene and its derivatives in solar photovoltaic technology. To understand the internal working mechanism for the attainment of highly efficient graphene-based solar cells, graphene’s parameters of control, namely its number of
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This paper presents an intensive review covering all the versatile applications of graphene and its derivatives in solar photovoltaic technology. To understand the internal working mechanism for the attainment of highly efficient graphene-based solar cells, graphene’s parameters of control, namely its number of layers and doping concentration are thoroughly discussed. The popular graphene synthesis techniques are studied. A detailed review of various possible applications of utilizing graphene’s attractive properties in solar cell technology is conducted. This paper clearly mentions its applications as an efficient transparent conducting electrode, photoactive layer and Schottky junction formation. The paper also covers advancements in the 10 different types of solar cell technologies caused by the incorporation of graphene and its derivatives in solar cell architecture. Graphene-based solar cells are observed to outperform those solar cells with the same configuration but lacking the presence of graphene in them. Various roles that graphene efficiently performs in the individual type of solar cell technology are also explored. Moreover, bi-layer (and sometimes, tri-layer) graphene is shown to have the potential to fairly uplift the solar cell performance appreciably as well as impart maximum stability to solar cells as compared to multi-layered graphene. The current challenges concerning graphene-based solar cells along with the various strategies adopted to resolve the issues are also mentioned. Hence, graphene and its derivatives are demonstrated to provide a viable path towards light-weight, flexible, cost-friendly, eco-friendly, stable and highly efficient solar cell technology.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bilayer Graphene)
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The Complex Case of Carbon-Measuring Tools in Landscape Architecture
C 2023, 9(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030069 - 12 Jul 2023
Abstract
As the world takes a more strategic approach to the climate crisis, carbon in its various forms has become a key factor in ascertaining the sustainability of the landscape. Landscape has been recognised as a resource and mechanism for addressing the role of
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As the world takes a more strategic approach to the climate crisis, carbon in its various forms has become a key factor in ascertaining the sustainability of the landscape. Landscape has been recognised as a resource and mechanism for addressing the role of carbon in the environment, with literature focused on the landscape’s carbon capacity as interconnected systems of land, soil, water and organic life. It has, however, largely neglected the crucial role of the cultural, social and historical aspects of the landscape, particularly at the level of design. This paper acknowledges and explores the complexity of landscape as a natural-cultural system with the consequent difficulties this poses in legislating, calculating and measuring carbon for global, national and local targets for low/zero carbon and carbon offsetting. The discussion takes place in the arena of landscape architecture at regional/city/local scales and the life-cycle of a project including its integration into its wider social, cultural and environmental setting. This paper develops the discourse in three major areas: first, by examining how the complexity of landscape is obscured in the context of carbon-measuring tools used in landscape architecture; secondly exploring one such tool in practice to demonstrate how site-specific design decisions can impact carbon levels; and third by proposing how an integrated understanding of landscape can be built into projects to embrace complexity and operationalise low carbon visions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Carbon Cycle, Capture and Storage)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Effect of Carbon Nanoparticles on the Porous Texture of ι-Carrageenan-Based N-Doped Nanostructured Porous Carbons and Implications for Gas Phase Applications
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, , , , and
C 2023, 9(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030068 - 12 Jul 2023
Abstract
S and N double-doped high surface area biomass-derived carbons were obtained from marine biomass-derived ι-carrageenan. Adding carbon nanoparticles (CNPs), namely graphene oxide (GO) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in the early stage of the synthesis leads to a modified porous texture and surface chemistry.
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S and N double-doped high surface area biomass-derived carbons were obtained from marine biomass-derived ι-carrageenan. Adding carbon nanoparticles (CNPs), namely graphene oxide (GO) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in the early stage of the synthesis leads to a modified porous texture and surface chemistry. The porous textures were characterized by N2 (−196.15 °C) and CO2 (0 °C) isotherms. The best GO- and CNT-added carbons had an apparent surface area of 1780 m2/g and 1170 m2/g, respectively, compared to 1070 m2/g for the CNP-free matrix. Analysis of the Raman spectra revealed that CNT was more efficient in introducing new defects than GO. Based on XPS, the carbon samples contain 2–4.5 at% nitrogen and 1.1 at% sulfur. The Dubinin–Radushkevich (DR) and Henry models were used to assess the strength of the interactions between various gases and the surface. The N2/H2 and CO2/CH4 selectivities were estimated with ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST). While the CNPs, particularly GO, had a remarkable influence on the porous texture and affected the surface chemistry, their influence on the separation selectivity of these gases was more modest.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbons for Health and Environmental Protection)
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Biochar for Soil Carbon Sequestration: Current Knowledge, Mechanisms, and Future Perspectives
by
and
C 2023, 9(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030067 - 07 Jul 2023
Abstract
Biochar, a sustainable solid material derived from biomass pyrolysis enriched in carbon, has emerged as a promising solution for soil carbon sequestration. This comprehensive review analyzes the current knowledge on biochar’s application in this context. It begins by examining biochar properties and production
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Biochar, a sustainable solid material derived from biomass pyrolysis enriched in carbon, has emerged as a promising solution for soil carbon sequestration. This comprehensive review analyzes the current knowledge on biochar’s application in this context. It begins by examining biochar properties and production methods, highlighting its recalcitrant nature as a potential stable carbon sink. The influence of various feedstocks and pyrolysis conditions on various physicochemical properties of biochar and its soil carbon sequestration potential is explored. Mechanisms through which biochar enhances soil carbon sequestration are discussed, including its role as a physical barrier against carbon loss and its ability to promote stable soil aggregates and influence soil microorganisms. Challenges and limitations, such as variations in biochar properties and optimal application rates, are addressed, along with strategies for maximizing biochar effectiveness through amendments. The review concludes by emphasizing the importance of long-term field studies, standardized protocols, and economic assessments to support the widespread adoption of biochar for soil carbon sequestration and its potential in climate change mitigation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbons for Health and Environmental Protection)
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Factors Affecting the Formation the Carbon Structure of Coke and the Method of Stabilizing Its Physical and Mechanical Properties
C 2023, 9(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030066 - 05 Jul 2023
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The raw materials (coals different stages of metamorphism) and technological factors (period and temperature) of the coke-making that determine the carbon structure of blast furnace coke, and its physical and mechanical properties are analyzed. The change granulometric composition of the coke as a
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The raw materials (coals different stages of metamorphism) and technological factors (period and temperature) of the coke-making that determine the carbon structure of blast furnace coke, and its physical and mechanical properties are analyzed. The change granulometric composition of the coke as a function of the coal batch properties is described in detail. The installation determines the possibility of influencing the carbon structure of coke, its granulometric composition in its production in order to increase the yields of the most valuable fractions, and improving its quality characteristics to achieve high-performance blast furnaces. Analysis of the results indicates that, with no changes in the coking conditions, the granulometric composition depends significantly on the ash content and packing density of the coal batch. Research has shown that the petrographic composition of the coal batch also affects the structure and size of the coke. The closest relationship is established between the magnitude of the fusinized components ΣFC and the output of the coke fractions 80–60 mm, 40–25 mm, and <25 mm. The method of mechanical treatment and stabilizing of blast furnace coke is proposed, which includes the improvement of the initial indexes of its quality M25, M10, and class >80 mm in continuous or periodically working open or closed industrial cylindrical oblique stabilizer drum.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation and Optimization of Tour Method for Synthesis of Graphite Oxide with High Specific Surface Area
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, , , , , , , , and
C 2023, 9(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030065 - 05 Jul 2023
Abstract
Many of the graphene-based structures exhibit an adsorption capacity due to their high specific surface area (SSA) and micropore volume. This capacity makes them competent materials for applications in energy and environmental sectors where efficiency is highly dependent on these properties for applications,
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Many of the graphene-based structures exhibit an adsorption capacity due to their high specific surface area (SSA) and micropore volume. This capacity makes them competent materials for applications in energy and environmental sectors where efficiency is highly dependent on these properties for applications, such as water decontamination, solar cells or energy storage. The aim of this work is to study graphene-related materials (GRM) for applications where a high SSA is a requirement, considering the ideal SSA of graphene ≅ 2600 m2g−1. For the synthesis of most of the GRMs, some oxidation method such as the Tour method is used to oxidize graphite to graphite oxide (GrO) as an initial step. Our work studies the optimization of this initial step to evaluate the best conditions to obtain GrO with the maximum possible SSA. The different parameters influencing the process have been evaluated and optimized by applying an experimental design (ED). The resulting materials have been characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), elemental analysis (EA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The evaluation of the results shows a maximum SSA of GrO of 67.04 m2g−1 for a temperature of 60 °C, a time of 12 h, a H2O2 volume of 50 mL and 4 g of KMnO4.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adsorption on Carbon-Based Materials)
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Casimir–Polder Force on Atoms or Nanoparticles from Gapped and Doped Graphene: Asymptotic Behavior at Large Separations
C 2023, 9(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030064 - 04 Jul 2023
Abstract
The Casimir–Polder force acting on atoms and nanoparticles spaced at large separations from real graphene sheets possessing some energy gaps and chemical potentials is investigated in the framework of the Lifshitz theory. The reflection coefficients expressed via the polarization tensor of graphene, found
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The Casimir–Polder force acting on atoms and nanoparticles spaced at large separations from real graphene sheets possessing some energy gaps and chemical potentials is investigated in the framework of the Lifshitz theory. The reflection coefficients expressed via the polarization tensor of graphene, found based on the first principles of thermal quantum field theory, are used. It is shown that for graphene the separation distances, starting from which the zero-frequency term of the Lifshitz formula contributes more than 99% of the total Casimir–Polder force, are less than the standard thermal length. According to our results, however, the classical limit for graphene, where the force becomes independent of the Planck constant, may be reached at much larger separations than the limit of the large separations determined by the zero-frequency term of the Lifshitz formula, depending on the values of the energy gap and chemical potential. The analytic asymptotic expressions for the zero-frequency term of the Lifshitz formula at large separations are derived. These asymptotic expressions agree up to 1% with the results of numerical computations starting from some separation distances that increase with increasing energy gaps and decrease with increasing chemical potentials. The possible applications of the obtained results are discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modelling of Size Effects in Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes)
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RF Sensor with Graphene Film for HRP Concentration Detection
C 2023, 9(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030063 - 23 Jun 2023
Abstract
This paper presents a radio-frequency (RF) antenna as a sensor to detect Horseradish peroxidase (HRP). At the core of the proposed approach is a graphene film deposited on a stub connected to an RF antenna. The graphene film is doctor bladed on the
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This paper presents a radio-frequency (RF) antenna as a sensor to detect Horseradish peroxidase (HRP). At the core of the proposed approach is a graphene film deposited on a stub connected to an RF antenna. The graphene film is doctor bladed on the stub. The film is then properly chemically functionalized in order to detect the presence of Horseradish peroxidase (HRP). We validate the proof-of-concept operation of HRP concentration detection by measuring the frequency shift of the reflection coefficient of the antenna using very small concentration of HRP ( mM to mM).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanohybrids for Biomedical Applications)
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Single-Bilayer Graphene Test Structures for Kelvin Probe Microscopy
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, , , and
C 2023, 9(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9030062 - 21 Jun 2023
Abstract
A new technique for determining the point spread function, which is required for measuring the surface potential using Kelvin probe microscopy (KPM), is presented. The method involves using a silicon carbide substrate coated with single-layer and bilayer graphene as a test structure and
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A new technique for determining the point spread function, which is required for measuring the surface potential using Kelvin probe microscopy (KPM), is presented. The method involves using a silicon carbide substrate coated with single-layer and bilayer graphene as a test structure and obtaining KPM potential profiles in different directions on the surface. This makes it possible to determine the KPM point spread function, which can be used to perform deconvolution and accurately recover the surface potential.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modelling of Size Effects in Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes)
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Carbon Nanotubes as Biosensors for Releasing Conjugated Bisphosphonates–Metal Ions in Bone Tissue: Targeted Drug Delivery through the DFT Method
by
and
C 2023, 9(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9020061 - 19 Jun 2023
Abstract
Bisphosphonate (BP) agents have attracted much attention for their precise therapy in some skeletal maladies demonstrated by enhancing osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. In this work, the use of CAM-B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p)/LANL2DZ to estimate the susceptibility of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) for adsorbing alendronate, ibandronate, neridronate, and
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Bisphosphonate (BP) agents have attracted much attention for their precise therapy in some skeletal maladies demonstrated by enhancing osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. In this work, the use of CAM-B3LYP/6-311+G(d,p)/LANL2DZ to estimate the susceptibility of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) for adsorbing alendronate, ibandronate, neridronate, and pamidronate chelated to two metal cations of 2Mg2+, 2Ca2+, and 2Sr2+ through nuclear magnetic resonance and thermodynamic parameters has been accomplished. For most biological medications, oral bioavailability is too low to reach a therapeutic level, and advanced delivery systems such as formulations including permeation enhancers or enzyme inhibitors, lipid-based nanocarriers, and microneedles will likely increase the oral bioavailability of these medications properly. Therefore, the measurements have described that the eventuality of using SWCNT and BP agents becomes the norm in metal chelating of the drug delivery system, which has been selected through (alendronate, ibandronate, neridronate, pamidronate) → 2X (X = Mg2+/Ca2+/Sr2+) complexes. The NMR results of chelated alendronate, ibandronate, neridronate, and pamidronate complexes adsorbed onto (5,5) armchair SWCNT have remarked the location of active sites of tagged nitrogen (N), phosphorus (S), oxygen (O), and metal cations of magnesium (Mg2+), calcium (Ca2+), and strontium (Sr2+) in these molecules which replace the movement of the charge electron transfer in polar bisphosphonates (BPs) toward (5,5) armchair carbon nanotube (CNT). The thermodynamic results have exhibited that the substitution of 2Ca2+ cation by 2Sr2+ cation in the compound of the bioactive glasses can be efficient for treating vertebral complex fractures. However, the most fluctuation in the Gibbs free energy for BPs → 2Sr2+ has been observed at 300 K. This manuscript aimed to show that (5,5) armchair SWCNT can easily penetrate in the bone cells, delivering chelated BP–cations directly to the bone tissue. Drug delivery systems can improve the pharmacological profile, therapeutic profile, and efficacy of BP drugs and lower the occurrence of off-targets.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanohybrids for Biomedical Applications)
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Phosphorus/Sulfur-Enriched Reduced Graphene Oxide Papers Obtained from Recycled Graphite: Solid-State NMR Characterization and Electrochemical Performance for Energy Storage
by
, , , , , , and
C 2023, 9(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9020060 - 12 Jun 2023
Abstract
The reduction of graphene oxide (GO) by means of thermal and/or chemical treatments leads to the production of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)—a material with improved electrical conductivity and considered a viable and low-cost alternative to pure graphene in several applications, including the production
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The reduction of graphene oxide (GO) by means of thermal and/or chemical treatments leads to the production of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)—a material with improved electrical conductivity and considered a viable and low-cost alternative to pure graphene in several applications, including the production of supercapacitor electrodes. In the present work, GO was prepared by the oxidation of graphite recycled from spent Li-ion batteries using mixtures of sulfuric and phosphoric acids (with different H2SO4/H3PO4 ratios), leading to the production of materials with significant S and P contents. These materials were then thermally reduced, resulting in rGO papers that were investigated by solid-state 13C and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance, along with other methods. The electrochemical properties of the produced rGO papers were evaluated, including the recording of cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge curves, besides electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analyses. The samples obtained by thermal reduction at 150 °C exhibited good rate capability at high current density and high capacitance retention after a large number of charge–discharge cycles. The results evidenced a strong relationship between the electrochemical properties of the produced materials and their chemical and structural features, especially for the samples containing both S and P elements. The methods described in this work represent, then, a facile and low-cost alternative for the production of rGO papers using graphite recycled from spent batteries, with promising applications as supercapacitor electrodes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon and Related Composites for Sensors and Energy Storage: Synthesis, Properties, and Application)
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Sustainable Supercapacitors Based on Polypyrrole-Doped Activated Biochar from Wood Waste Electrodes
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, , , , and
C 2023, 9(2), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9020059 - 05 Jun 2023
Abstract
The synthesis of high-performance carbon-based materials from biomass residues for electrodes has been considered a challenge to achieve in supercapacitor-based production. In this work, activated biochar has been prepared as the active electrode material for supercapacitors (SCs), and an effective method has been
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The synthesis of high-performance carbon-based materials from biomass residues for electrodes has been considered a challenge to achieve in supercapacitor-based production. In this work, activated biochar has been prepared as the active electrode material for supercapacitors (SCs), and an effective method has been explored to boost its capacitive performance by employing polypyrrole (PPy) as a biochar dopant. The results for physicochemical characterization data have demonstrated that PPy doping affects the biochar morphology, specific surface area, pore structure, and incorporation of surface functionalities on modified biochar. Biochar-PPy exhibited a surface area of 87 m2 g−1, while pristine biochar exhibited 1052 m2 g−1. The SCs were assembled employing two electrodes sandwiched with PVA solid-state film electrolyte as a separator. The device was characterized by standard electrochemical assays that indicated an improvement of 34% in areal capacitance. The wood electrodes delivered high areal capacitances of 282 and 370 mF cm−2 at 5 mA cm−2, for pure biochar and biochar doped with PPy, respectively, with typical retention in the capacitive response of 72% at the end of 1000 cycles of operation of the supercapacitor at high current density, indicating that biochar-PPy-based electrode devices exhibited a higher energy density when compared to pure biochar devices.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoporous Carbons for Hydrogen Sorption and Electrochemical Energy Storage)
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Open AccessArticle
Permafrost Effect on the Spatial Distribution of CO2 Emission in the North of Western Siberia (Russia)
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, , , , and
C 2023, 9(2), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9020058 - 01 Jun 2023
Abstract
The landscapes in the discontinuous permafrost area of Western Siberia are unique objects for assessing the direct and indirect impact of permafrost on greenhouse gas fluxes. The aim of this study was to identify the influence of permafrost on the CO2 emission
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The landscapes in the discontinuous permafrost area of Western Siberia are unique objects for assessing the direct and indirect impact of permafrost on greenhouse gas fluxes. The aim of this study was to identify the influence of permafrost on the CO2 emission at the landscape and local levels. The CO2 emission from the soil surface with the removed vegetation cover was measured by the closed chamber method, with simultaneous measurements of topsoil temperature and moisture and thawing depth in forest, palsa, and bog ecosystems in August 2022. The CO2 emissions from the soils of the forest ecosystems averaged 485 mg CO2 m−2 h−1 and was 3–3.5 times higher than those from the peat soils of the palsa mound and adjacent bog (on average, 150 mg CO2 m−2 h−1). The high CO2 emission in the forest was due to the mild soil temperature regime, high root biomass, and good water–air permeability of soils in the absence of permafrost. A considerable warming of bog soils, and the redistribution of CO2 between the elevated palsa and the bog depression with water flows above the permafrost table, equalized the values of CO2 emissions from the palsa and bog soils. Soil moisture was a significant factor of the spatial variability in the CO2 emission at all levels. The temperature affected the CO2 emission only at the sites with a shallow thawing depth.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Permafrost and Carbon Dioxide Emission)
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From Waste to Resource: Utilizing Sweet Chestnut Waste to Produce Hydrothermal Carbon for Water Decontamination
C 2023, 9(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/c9020057 - 01 Jun 2023
Abstract
Carbonaceous materials are a highly appealing class of adsorbents, owing to their exceptional properties, such as high surface area and thermal and chemical stability. These materials have found successful applications in water purification. Sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) cupules are disposed of
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Carbonaceous materials are a highly appealing class of adsorbents, owing to their exceptional properties, such as high surface area and thermal and chemical stability. These materials have found successful applications in water purification. Sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) cupules are disposed of as waste. Valorization of these residues is a step forward in terms of circular economy and sustainability. Meanwhile, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) pose significant concerns due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity, emerging as contaminants of concern for human health and the environment. This study focuses on preparing carbonaceous material by hydrothermal carbonization from chestnut cupules, followed by their use as adsorbents for PFAS removal from polluted water. The cupule waste material was crushed, ground, sieved, and subjected to hydrothermal treatment at temperatures ranging from 180–200 °C to produce hydrothermal carbons. The adsorbents obtained were characterized by various techniques such as nitrogen adsorption isotherm, porosimetry, point of zero charge, Fourier-transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, and thermal, elemental, and energy dispersive X-ray analyses. Surface area (SBET) values of 42.3–53.2 m2·g−1 were obtained; pHPZC ranged from 3.8 to 4.8. This study also determined the adsorption kinetics and isotherms for removing perfluorooctanoate-contaminated water. The equilibrium was established at 72 h and qe = 1029.47 mg·g−1. To summarize, this research successfully valorized a biomass residue by transforming it into hydrothermal carbon, which was then utilized as an adsorbent for water decontamination.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass—A Renewable Resource for Carbon Materials (Volume II))
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