Publications

Considering the increasing need for sustainable and economical energy storage solutions, the integration of layered materials such as MoS2 into these systems represents an important step toward enhancing energy sustainability and efficiency. Exploring environmentally responsible fabrication techniques, this study assesses wrinkled MoS2 thin films synthesized from distinct Mo and MoS2 targets, followed by sulfurization conducted in a graphite box. We utilized magnetron sputtering to deposit precursor Mo and MoS2 films on Si substrates, achieving thicknesses below 20 nm. This novel approach decreases sulfur by up to tenfold during sulfurization due to the confined space technique, contributing also to avoiding the formation of toxic gases such as SO2 or the necessity of using H2S, aligning with sustainable materials development. Thinner MoS2 layers were obtained post-sulfurization from the MoS2 precursors, as shown by X-ray reflectometry. Raman spectroscopy and grazing X-ray diffraction analyses confirmed the amorphous nature of the as-deposited films. Post-sulfurization, both types of films exhibited crystalline hexagonal MoS2 phases, with the sulfurized Mo showing a polycrystalline nature with a (100) orientation and sulfurized MoS2 displaying a (00L) preferred orientation. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results supported a Mo:S ratio of 1:2 on the surface of the films obtained using the MoS2 precursor films, confirming the stoichiometry obtained by means of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images revealed micrometer-sized clusters potentially formed during rapid cooling post-sulfurization, with an increased average roughness. These results open the way for the further exploration of wrinkled MoS2 thin films in advanced energy storage technologies.

To advance gas sensor technologies, it is essential to identify materials that exhibit both high selectivity and sensitivity. Here, we unravel the gas-sensing capabilities of indium sulfide (InS) nanosheets, particularly in relation to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) detection. Utilizing a synergistic approach that combines in situ and operando experimental methodologies with density functional theory calculations, we demonstrate that these nanosheets offer outstanding sensitivity toward NO2, characterized by a remarkably low detection threshold of 180 ppb at an operational temperature of 350 degrees C. This remarkable sensitivity is ascribed to the electronic charge redistribution around the Fermi level, facilitated by an oxygen-deficient In2O3-x surface layer that forms naturally when the InS surface is exposed to ambient conditions. A pivotal aspect of our investigation was the exploration of the influence of sulfur abstraction on these surface modifications. We demonstrate that sulfur abstraction plays a critical role in the formation and operational efficacy of the In2O3-x layer, thereby acting as a key element in the sensor mechanism. This unique surface chemistry not only amplifies the sensitivity to NO2 but also confers unparalleled selectivity over other gases and volatile organic compounds. Notably, this level of performance exceeds that of other 2D semiconductors and metal oxides, thus establishing InS nanosheets as an ideal platform for high-performance gas sensors suitable for demanding environments. Moreover, unlike many state-of-the-art sensor materials, InS-based sensors can withstand a wider variety of environmental conditions due to their superior water adsorption resistance.

In this study, we synthesized thin films of semiconductor Cu 2 CoSnS 4 (CCTS). We investigated the mechanism of CCTS electrodeposition precursor onto fluorine -doped tin oxide (FTO) surface. This investigation utilized various mixed additives (Trisodium citrate, Glycine, and Boric acid) through voltammetric and chronoamperometric techniques. The polarization cathodic indicated that the additives narrowing the potential range for electrodeposition of the four elements. The reduction of S 2 O 3 2- was mainly induced by the effect of metal ions. The current transient was analyzed using the Astley and Scharifker-Hills models. Trisodium citrate electrolyte showed an instantaneous model followed by 3D diffusion -limited growth. Both trisodium citrate mixed with glycine and trisodium citrate mixed with boric acid shifted towards the progressive nucleation model. Trisodium citrate with tartaric acid showed a strong agreement with progressive nucleation. In -situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) evaluated a low charge transfer resistance for CCTS precursor electrodeposition in trisodium citrate electrolyte. The X-ray diffraction and Raman analysis study revealed the stannite structure of the obtained Cu 2 CoSnS 4 thin film. The morphological properties and thickness of the films were investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The compositions were determined using energy dispersive spectroscopy which indicated different atomic ratios of Cu-Co-Sn-S. The maximum absorption was observed within the 1.5 eV range for the film deposited in the Trisodium citrate bath, as determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry.

This work presents the ability of WO3-based sensors to detect low traces of acetone, specifically within the range of 0.25-5 ppm, specific to the in -field atmosphere. The WO3 powder was synthesised through the hydrothermal method. Morpho-structural investigations showed a monoclinic structure and a good crystallization of the WO3 powder, containing well -grown and faceted grains along low -index crystallographic planes. The paste obtained by mixing the powder with propanediol was screen -printed as a thick layer onto commercial alumina substrates, obtaining the chemical sensors. A dynamic computer -controlled Gas Mixing System was utilized to ensure controlled airflow with variable relative humidity and acetone concentrations. The sensor response was explained based on physico-chemical equations, taking into consideration pre -adsorbed species of oxygen and water, both of which are relevant constituents of atmospheric conditions. The results highlight the applicative potential of WO3, having a good signal-to-noise ratio in relative humidity conditions up to 90% and a pronounced sensitive selectivity to acetone.

The outstanding properties exhibited by the p-type NiO nanostructures can be greatly affected by morpho-structural and defect characteristics with constructive or competing effects. We have conducted an in-depth study on NiO nanoparticles obtained by hydrothermal synthesis and submitted to various thermal treatments, to monitor the evolution of their structural properties and the effect of the thermal history on their CO sensing. Correlated electron paramagnetic resonance and analytical transmission electron microscopy investigations evidenced an amount of up to 1 % metallic nickel clusters close to surface in the NiO nanoparticles calcined at 400 degrees C and 500 degrees C for 8 h. Subsequent annealing in vacuum and in air of the sample calcined at 400 degrees C resulted in different size distributions and morphology of the NiO nanoparticles and an increase/decrease of the nickel phase, respectively. Comparative CO sensing tests on the two pristine samples and on the sample calcined at 400 degrees C and further annealed in air at 500 degrees C for 2 h showed an increase in the baseline resistance of the later due to the decrease of free charge carriers induced by the dissolution of the nickel clusters. The overall CO sensing results show a strong dependence on the samples thermal history.

Quantum electrodynamical density functional theory is applied to obtain the electronic density, spin polarization, as well as orbital and spin magnetizations of square periodic arrays of quantum dots or antidots subjected to the influence of a far-infrared cavity photon field. A gradient-based exchange-correlation functional adapted to a 2D electron gas in a transverse homogeneous magnetic field is used in the theoretical framework and calculations. The obtained results predict a non-trivial effect of the cavity field on the electron distribution in the unit cell of the superlattice, as well as on the orbital and spin magnetizations. The number of electrons per unit cell of the superlattice is shown to play a crucial role in the modification of the magnetization via the electron-photon coupling. The calculations show that cavity photons strengthen the diamagnetic effect in the quantum dot structure, while they weaken the paramagnetic effect in the antidot structure. As the number of electrons per unit cell of the lattice increases, the electron-photon interaction reduces the exchange forces that will otherwise promote strong spin splitting for both the dot and the antidot arrays. Electronic density, spin polarization, as well as orbital and spin magnetizations of square periodic arrays of quantum dots or antidots subjected to the influence of a far-infrared cavity photon field are obtained using quantum electrodynamical density functional theory adapted to a 2D electron gas in a transverse homogeneous magnetic field. image

This paper tackles the influence of the functionalization of polystyrene and graphene oxide (GO) composites on the flammability characteristics. A microscale combustion calorimeter (MCC) was used to experimentally determine the heat release capacity (HRC), the specific heat release rate (HRR) and the total heat released (THR). Neural models were designed that correlate the THR with a number of parameters related to the composition and type of flame retardant used, the heating rate, the amount of residue, the HRC, the peak heat release rate (PHRR), the temperature at the peak pyrolysis rate (TPHRR) and the time elapsed until the occurrence of the peak heat release rate (Time). The best results in the training, validation and testing stages were achieved with the neural model with 9 neurons in the input layer, 40 neurons in the hidden layer and one neuron in the output layer. This model was incorporated into an optimization procedure, based on a genetic algorithm, to establish the values of the input parameters used in the training of the neural networks, in order to generate a minimum THR value, which is the output parameter. Since the synthesis of polystyrene particles with different GO concentrations is costly, this research helps to reduce the number of experimental tests and allows to determine the best GO concentration by means of neural models and genetic algorithms.

Kesterite-based copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) and copper zinc tin selenide (CZTSe) thin films have attracted considerable attention as promising materials for sustainable and cost-effective thin-film solar cells. However, the successful integration of these materials into photovoltaic devices is hindered by the coexistence of secondary phases, which can significantly affect device performance and stability. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of recent progress and challenges in controlling secondary phases in kesterite CZTS and CZTSe thin films. Drawing from relevant studies, we discuss state-of-the-art strategies and techniques employed to mitigate the formation of secondary phases. These include a range of deposition methods, such as electrodeposition, sol-gel, spray pyrolysis, evaporation, pulsed laser deposition, and sputtering, each presenting distinct benefits in enhancing phase purity. This study highlights the importance of employing various characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, for the precise identification of secondary phases in CZTS and CZTSe thin films. Furthermore, the review discusses innovative strategies and techniques aimed at mitigating the occurrence of secondary phases, including process optimization, compositional tuning, and post-deposition treatments. These approaches offer promising avenues for enhancing the purity and performance of kesterite-based thin-film solar cells. Challenges and open questions in this field are addressed, and potential future research directions are proposed. By comprehensively analyzing recent advancements, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of secondary phase-related issues in kesterite CZT(S/Se) thin films, paving the way for enhanced performance and commercial viability of thin-film solar cell technologies.

In order to find solutions to current worldwide environmental problems, it is crucial to develop sustainable nanomaterials, ideally with multifunctional properties. Considering this, novel TiO2-SnO2@NMs (noble metals: Au and Ag) composites, for use as sustainable nanomaterials, were successfully prepared via a two-step synthesis process consisting of laser pyrolysis followed by the chemical impregnation of the collected materials with noble metals. The addition of SnO2 favors the transformation of TiO2 from a mixture with a majority Anatase phase to one with a Rutile phase majority. With consideration for their level of environmental toxicity, the features of the synthesized nanomaterials were structurally, morphologically, and optically described and assessed for environmental protection applications as gas sensors and photocatalysts. In the case of the Surface Acoustic Wave sensor, based on a pure TiO2 nanopowder, a notable difference in the frequency shift was detected in comparison to the other examined sensors. All sensors responded to the CH4 concentrations tested (0.02-0.1%). On the other hand, when methyl orange was photodegraded under visible light, the results obtained using NMs for decoration revealed that the photocatalytic activity of TiO2-SnO2@NMs was significantly improved compared to the TiO2-SnO2 binary composite, which already has an enhanced photocatalytic activity, compared to pure TiO2. Overall, this work produces nanoparticles that exhibit better sensory and photocatalytic features, as well as higher levels of biocompatibility with skin cells, for use as eco-friendly nanomaterials for a sustainable future.

In this work, the effects of 60Co y -ray irradiation on high resistivity p -type diodes have been investigated. The diodes were exposed to dose values of 0.1, 0.2, 1, and 2 MGy. Both macroscopic (I-V, C-V) and microscopic investigations, by means of Thermally Stimulated Current (TSC) and Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS) techniques, were conducted to characterize the radiation -induced changes. The investigated diodes were manufactured on high resistivity p -type Float Zone (FZ) silicon and were further classified into two types based on the isolation technique between the pad and guard ring: p -stop and p -spray. After irradiation, the macroscopic results of current-voltage and capacitance-voltage measurements were obtained and compared with existing literature data. Additionally, the microscopic measurements focused on the development of the concentration of different radiation -induced defects, including the Boron interstitial -Oxygen interstitial (BiOi) complex, the Carbon interstitial -Oxygen interstitial (CiOi) defect, the H40K, and the so-called I*P. To investigate the thermal stability of induced defects in the bulk, isochronal annealing studies were performed in the temperature range of 100 degrees C to 300 degrees C. These annealing processes were carried out on diodes irradiated with doses of 1 and 2 MGy. Furthermore, in order to investigate the unexpected results observed in the C-V measurements after irradiation with high dose values, the surface conductance between the pad and guard ring was measured as a function of both dose and annealing temperature.