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This study introduces a nuclear-targeting double-shell smart nanoplatform designed to synergistically enhance chemotherapy, PTT, PDT, CDT, and immunotherapy. The nanoplatform, which leverages NIR light, demonstrates a remarkable tumor inhibition rate of 95.6 %. Additionally, it elicits a robust immune response and significantly suppresses both tumor growth and recurrence. In conclusion, this nanoplatform holds tremendous potential for synergistic applications in enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in HCC. [Display omitted] Smart nanoplatforms designed for nuclear-targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents to tumor sites are pivotal in advancing tumor treatment and immunotherapy. Herein, we introduced a novel nuclear-targeting double-shell smart nanoplatform (HMCuS/Pt/ICG@MnO 2 @9R-P201 (HMCPIM9P)), which synergistically enhances chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), immunotherapy and chemodynamic therapy (CDT). The core of this nanoplatform consists of double-shell multifunctional nanoparticles (HMCuS@MnO 2) that enable targeted delivery of the photosensitizer Indocyanine Green (ICG) and the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin (Pt). By effectively consuming glutathione (GSH), these nanoparticles boost the chemotherapeutic efficacy of Pt. Additionally, the manganese ion (Mn2+) present activate the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) (cGAS-STING) pathway, bolstering adaptive immune responses against tumors and elevating the level of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. The incorporation of the hepatoma-targeting peptide (9R-P201 peptide) allows the system to exhibit FOXM1 receptor-mediated nuclear targeting properties specifically in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Notably, when combined with near-infrared (NIR) light, HMCPIM9P demonstrated a remarkable tumor inhibition rate of 95.6 %, fostered a robust immune response, and significantly inhibited tumor growth and recurrence. Overall, the smart nanoplatform boasts active nuclear targeting capabilities, enabling the enrichment of chemotherapeutic agents at tumor sites, and holds great potential for synergistic applications in enhancing chemotherapy and immunotherapy for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiotherapy (RT) is the primary treatment modality for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the tumor microenvironment (TME)-induced radioresistance often compromises its therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we propose an innovative bidirectional radiosensitization strategy for NPC. Specifically, we have encapsulated metformin (Met) and copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) within injectable DNA supramolecular hydrogels (DSH) to create a novel radiosensitizer, Met-CuS@DSH. This radiosensitizer not only effectively reverses tumor hypoxia to promote reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation but also significantly inhibits glutathione (GSH)-mediated ROS scavenging, thereby achieving bidirectional radiosensitization by enhancing ROS production and suppressing its scavenging. This strategy significantly improves the therapeutic effect of NPC while reducing the RT dose (3 Gy in total), which provides a promising approach for overcoming the radioresistance of NPC caused by TME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal chalcogenide copper sulfide nanoparticles exhibit a broad spectrum of applications, encompassing solar cells, photovoltaics, optical devices, ionic materials and more. In this investigation, CuS nanoparticles were synthesized through a facile co-precipitation method. The synthesis involved employing copper sulfate and thiourea as precursors for Cu and S, respectively. Quantitative analysis, confirming the presence of Cu–S and S–S bonds, was conducted through Raman spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to ascertain the structural phases. The semiconducting behavior of the synthesized CuS nanoparticles was studied through UV–Vis spectroscopy, correlating optical absorption and energy bandgap. The comprehensive findings suggest that the prepared CuS nanoparticles hold promise for advancements in photovoltaic technology and optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This thesis presents the preparation of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)-based shape memory polymer composites (SMPC) (EVA/CuS) with near-infrared light photo-thermal response. The composites were prepared using EVA as the matrix material and copper sulphide (CuS) particles as the functional phase. The designability of SMPs was considered in the preparation of these composites. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of CuS, as a functional phase, enhanced the cross-linking degree and augmented the shape memory properties of EVA. Additionally, it served as a photo-thermal functional filler, imparting its photo-thermal properties. It can be observed that as the quantity of CuS particles incorporated into the EVA/CuS composite film increases, the photothermal conversion performance of the composite film improves, the shape fixation rate rises, and the rate of recovery of light-responsive shape memory accelerates. The temperature of the composites increased to 116.7°C in 20 s when the CuS addition was 2 wt% and the NIR light intensity was 0.5 W/cm2. At a NIR light intensity of 0.6 W/cm2, the "U" shape of the sample was restored to a straight state in 30 s, and the shape recovery rate reached 100%. In this experiment, optical near-infrared photostimulation-responsive EVA/CuS composites have been successfully prepared. These composites demonstrate the ability to achieve remote control and fast response of EVA shape memory behavior, offering a new avenue for the preparation of photo-responsive EVA-based shape memory materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is difficult to depress secondary copper sulfide minerals in the separative flotation of copper–molybdenum coexisting ores with a huge NaHS consumption, and causing serious safety and environmental problems. Galvanic interaction between active metallic granular (low consumption depressant; LCD) and secondary copper sulfide mineral particles can induce surface passivation, thereby depressing its floatability and achieving clean and efficient regulation of copper molybdenum separation. The use of 10% LCD was applied at the first stage and 5 kg/t NaHS at the second stage can recover 89.71% of Cu, while only 52.89% of Cu can be recovered for single stage flotation where 20 kg/t NaHS was used without any presence of LCD. To avoid the negative effect of Mg(OH)2 colloids at higher pH at the second stage, sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) was added as a dispersant and Mo recovery could be pulled up to 89.63%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronze sheets from the Spring and Autumn periods (approximately fifth century BCE), which were excavated from Chu culture tombs located in Dangyang, Hubei Province, China, were analyzed in this study. The objective was to explore and elucidate the correlation between the alloy composition, corrosion products, and the surrounding burial environment, while also offering insights into the underlying corrosion mechanisms. A combination of techniques including optical microscopy (OM), SEM–EDX, XRD, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and ion chromatography (IC) were employed to examine these samples. The analysis revealed that the bronze sheets consisted primarily of Cu-Sn-Pb alloys. Metallographic examination showed that the artifacts were initially hot forged and later subjected to partial cold working; some of the samples exhibited sulfide inclusions. XRD and Raman spectroscopy results indicated that the primary corrosion products were SnO2, copper sulfates, and various copper sulfides. Additionally, CuO was identified. Raman spectra of the black-gray corrosion products showed two broad peaks at approximately 1360 and 1580 cm−1. Further analysis of the Raman parameters suggested the presence of soot or humic substances. Based on these findings, it was hypothesized that the sulfide inclusions within the metal's microstructure, the presence of ${\rm SO}_4^{2-}$SO42−, and the activity of sulfate-reducing bacteria in the surrounding soil, combined with the sealed and anaerobic conditions of the tomb, could account for the observed sulfide corrosion products on the bronze artifacts. Moreover, the detection of tenorite and soot points to the possibility that the tombs experienced a fire during the burial process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper sulfide (CuS), under the category of metal sulfide, remains as promising anode for Sodium-ion Batteries (SIBs) with a theoretical capacity of 560 mAhg−1. CuS suffers from polysulfide formation, severe capacity fading upon cycling. To address these issues addition of bio-carbon is sought as a measure in this work. A porous carbon has been successively synthesized from sodium alginate source with a specific surface area of 38.78 m2g−1 and an average pore volume of 3.40 nm. The addition of prepared porous carbon to copper sulfide (CuS) enhances stability in the electrochemical performance with the value of 442 mAhg−1 being the initial discharge capacity observed at a current density of 100 mAg−1 over 500 cycles. The technology in performing solid-state reaction is well established and does not demand high infrastructure for atmospheric control thus facilitating large-scale production. Therefore, this work throws light on the benefit of adding bio-carbon to CuS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) with sulfide‐based electrolytes, such as argyrodite (Li₆PS₅Cl, LPSCl), offer significant advantages regarding safety and energy density. However, conventional Cu current collectors with LPSCl suffer from corrosion, necessitating a deeper understanding of appropriate mechanisms and strategies to address them. This study investigates the impact of electrolyte decomposition on Cu degradation in sulfide‐based ASSBs. Accelerated experiments reveal that LPSCl decomposition forms an ineffective passive layer on Cu, resulting in significant corrosion above 2 V during delithiation. In addition, the corrosion potential implies that sulfide and chlorine species are involved in the corrosion reaction. Comparative analyses with Ni current collectors, which are known for their resistance to the corrosive species, demonstrate superior stability to Cu. Corrosion‐prevention strategies are proposed based on the elucidated mechanisms, with the Pilling–Bedworth ratio explaining why certain metal sulfide layers formed during electrolyte decomposition may fail to effectively prevent corrosion. These insights support the development of targeted protective strategies and alternative current collector materials to enhance the durability and performance of sulfide‐based ASSBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuS microflowers composites with Vulcan carbon black (CuS/Vulcan) were synthesized by a low-cost one-pot hydrothermal process and investigated as electrode materials for supercapacitor applications. The phase integrity of pristine CuS and CuS/Vulcan composites was confirmed by XRD measurements. The immobilization of CuS nanoparticles on the Vulcan support prevented their agglomeration and improved the specific surface area, the electric conductivity and the electrochemical response time of CuS-based electrodes. The electrochemical performance of CuS/Vulcan composites was characterized in a three-electrode setup and a two-electrode cell configuration as a function of the CuS/Vulcan weight ratio. The CuS/Vulcan composite electrodes with a mass ratio of 70:30 demonstrated the highest specific capacitance of 285 F g−1 and a capacitance retention of 97% after 2000 galvanostatic charge–discharge cycles at 5 A g−1 in 3M KOH. The assembled CuS/Vulcan (70:30)//CuS/Vulcan (70:30) symmetric cell exhibited an improved specific energy of 12.6 Wh kg−1 at a specific power of 907 W kg−1 (at the discharge current density of 0.25 A g−1). Overall, this study presented a facile, convenient and scalable approach for designing cost-effective and high-performance composite electrodes based on copper sulfide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ester collectors have rapidly developed into the main flotation collectors for copper sulfide minerals since they were developed. In this study, the collecting performance of four collectors, O-isopropyl-N-ethyl thionocarbamate ester (IPETC), 3-pentyl xanthate acrylate ester (PXA), O-isobutyl-N-allyl-thionocarbamate (IBALTC), and O-isobutyl-N-isobutoxycarbonyl-thionocarbamate (IBIBCTC), was investigated through microflotation tests, microcalorimetric measurements, and quantum chemical calculations. The results of the microflotation tests show that IBALTC and IPETC have stronger collecting abilities than IBIBCTC and PXA; the order of collecting ability is IBALTC > IPETC > IBIBCTC > PXA. The microcalorimetry test also shows that the adsorption heat of the former two is higher. Quantum chemical calculations show the energy difference between the HOMOs of the collector and the LUMOs of minerals. The electrostatic potential extremum around S atom and the first ionization potential of IPETC and IBALTC are similar and were smaller than IBIBCTC and PXA, which shows that the collecting ability of the former two is similar and stronger than the latter two. Among the collectors, the S atom polarizability, electrophilic, and nucleophilic attack index of IBALTC are the largest, indicating that its electronic deformation capability and nucleophilic properties are the strongest, which results in the strongest coordination interaction with the copper ions in copper sulfide minerals and thus the highest collecting ability. The S atom polarizability, electrophilic, and nucleophilic attack index of PXA are the smallest, indicating that its electronic deformation capability and nucleophilicity are the weakest, and its collecting ability is the weakest. The coordination between collector and mineral surface was analyzed theoretically. The research results are of great help to the design and development of ester collectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chalcopyrite, a critical copper sulfide mineral, often coexists closely with pyrite in nature. Given their highly similar flotation characteristics, achieving effective separation during flotation poses significant challenges. This study reviews the surface flotation characteristic differences between chalcopyrite and pyrite and summarizes various flotation techniques for copper sulfide ores, including preferential flotation, bulk flotation, fast flotation, asynchronous flotation, and branched flotation, highlighting their unique technical features. The current research progress on collectors and depressants in copper-sulfur separation is discussed, revealing an increasingly clear understanding of their mechanisms of action. Additionally, flotation the development directions for copper-sulfur flotation separation technology and reagents are explored to provide theoretical foundations and practical guidance for the study of copper-sulfur flotation separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, 60% of the world's copper production comes from porphyry copper deposits, often significantly enriched by surface weathering. This paper uses new global datasets and previous work to review the critical processes required for porphyry copper formation and supergene enrichment. Porphyry copper formation requires a subducting arc to create a source magma which traverses a thickened crust subject to high exhumation rates during formation, ranging from 100's to 1,000's m/m.y. High exhumation rates potentially trigger magma decompression, causing fluid release, opening fluid pathways along faults and lineaments and/or facilitating telescoping, whereby early porphyry-style mineralization is overprinted and enriched by high-sulfidation mineralization at shallower crustal levels. Later supergene enrichment of the deposit requires precipitation rates > 120 mm/yr and exhumation rates ranging from 10's to 100's m/m.y. This allows copper sulfide sources to be continually refreshed for weathering but restricts the amount of erosion. Using the Central Andes, one of the world's most critical porphyry copper provinces, the understanding gained from analyzing these global databases can explain the temporal and spatial pattern of known deposits. These constraints were used to inform mappable target criteria and data required for mineral exploration at a range of different scales, from orogen (> 100,000 km2), to terrane (100,000–1,000 km2) to arc (1,000–100 km2). The results can be used to help illustrate and inform global exploration strategies for supergene-enriched porphyry copper deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core–shell nanoparticles were synthesised by coating copper over CuS nanoparticles, which were synthesised using different precursors. X-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and field-emission electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis showed the variation in crystallite size, chemical state, and morphological properties. The band gap was in the range of 1.32–2.08 eV for coated and uncoated samples. The emission peaks in photoluminescence spectra showed the presence of defects, and all analyses were correlated with each other to explain the 95% degradation of 50 ml rhodamine blue dye at a concentration of 1 mg/L in 60 min using the catalytic weight of 15 mg. The plasmonic properties were observed in near-infrared (NIR) absorption analysis and explained with the help of XPS and its enhancement in photocatalytic activity. The coating of copper over copper sulphide nanoparticles in sample 1-C and 2-C showed improved catalytic degradation for rhodamine blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we present and report on the evolution of thermoelectric properties altered through changes in the energy barrier height in thermally evaporated mixed-phase copper sulfide thin films. The physical interpretations depend on the conception of degenerate energy levels near the top of the valence band. The energy barrier at grain boundaries was highlighted and assumed to be the origin of the rapid evolution of the conductivity and Seebeck coefficient of the film annealed at 723 K. The position of the energy levels of the active carriers with respect to the Fermi energy reinforces the effect of annealing temperature on the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity and was observed to transform the system from a system with fully ionized impurities to a system with impurities that are not fully ionized, which enhances the barrier height. The evolution of the Seebeck coefficient is explained in terms of thermal activation. The sample annealed at 623 K exhibited the lowest barrier height of 32 meV, with an activation energy of 111 meV. The sample annealed at 673 K had a barrier height of 46 meV with an activation energy of 136 meV. Finally, the sample annealed at 723 K exhibited a barrier height of 103 meV, which explains its relatively high room-temperature Seebeck coefficient, with a pronounced effect of temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The present study demonstrates the synthesis of compact ZnO layers using CdS sensitized on ZnO as a photoanode with copper sulfide (Cu2S) and carbon as a counter electrode (CE). In this study, a compact ZnO layer was fabricated using the simple and low-cost successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method, and Cu2S CE films were synthesized using the chemical bath deposition method. Various characterizations, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), confirmed the formation of ZnO and CdS sensitizations on the ZnO. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed that the bandgaps of the ZnO and Cu2S films were 3.2 and 1.3 eV, respectively. Furthermore, the morphology of the ZnO films was optimized by varying the number of SILAR cycles. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of a nanorod compact layer (CL) and the porous nature of the ZnO photoanode films. However, the porosity increased with the number of SILAR cycles. Various parameters, such as the current density, voltage, fill factor, and efficiency, were measured using the J-V characteristics. The highest 0.85% efficiency was achieved by using the ZnO compact film with 30 SILAR cycles for the Cu2S CE. Furthermore, the study revealed that the Cu2S counter electrode had a higher electrocatalytic response than the carbon CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper monosulfide (CuS), also known as covellite, displays exceptional optoelectronic characteristics, exhibiting both plasmonic and photonic absorption in its monolithic nanomaterial form. It is classified as a hybrid metallic‐semiconducting material and a natural hyperbolic material with a distinctive crystal structure. Nanostructured CuS has been demonstrated to support localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) in the near‐infrared spectral range. Here, the phenomenon of near‐infrared (NIR) to visible electromagnetic field localization in ultrathin crystalline quasi‐2D CuS nanocrystals is revealed. This is achieved by mapping LSPRs in a range of CuS structures using high‐resolution electron energy‐loss spectroscopy in combination with cathodoluminescence spectroscopy. In addition to LSPRs, a range of photonic modes in the visible and ultraviolet spectral ranges is identified in colloidally defined single‐crystalline nanostructures, with numerical simulations providing supporting evidence. Finally, CuS nanocrystals exhibit visible NIR light emission within the range of 600–900 nm when excited by an electron beam. Altogether, these properties make CuS nanocrystals highly suitable for applications in telecommunications, sensing, and nanophotonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] In tumor therapy, copper (Cu)-based nanozymes with peroxidase-like activity play a crucial role in converting hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals (OH). This process induces immunogenic cell death, which in turn activates the body's immune response, enhancing the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. Nonetheless, the efficiency of this reaction is curtailed due to the oxidation of Cu(I) to Cu(II), leading to the self-depletion of the nanozyme's activity and an insufficient yield of OH for effective immunotherapeutic activation. To surmount this challenge, our research introduces a photocharging self-doped semiconductor nanozyme, copper sulfide (Cu 9 S 8). The photocharging effect enables the nanozyme to convert internal Cu(II) back to Cu(I) through charge transfer induced by near-infrared (NIR)-II photothermal energy, thereby effectively maintaining the enzyme-like activity of the nanozyme. Additionally, Cu 9 S 8 is enhanced with a calcium sulfide (CaS) coating. This coating reacts in the acidic microenvironment of tumors to generate hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) gas, which in turn suppresses the catalase activity inherent in tumor cells, ensuring a plentiful supply of H 2 O 2 for the nanozyme's operation. This dual strategy of amplifying enzyme-like activity and substrate availability culminates in the generation of ample OH within tumor cells, leading to significant immunogenic cell death and thereby realizing potent immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper foil is widely used in electronic components and devices. This study investigates the corrosion behavior of copper foil on printed circuit boards exposed for one year in a closed atmospheric environment across 22 different sites in the Sichuan-Tibet region. Through electrochemical, SEM/EDS, and XRD analyses, the corrosion behavior of copper foil material across the five selected sites (Meishan, Mangkang, Luding, Batang, and Panzhihua) and the influence of environmental factors were discussed. The results show that copper foils in areas with a large temperature change, higher humidity, and more rainfall exhibit more severe corrosion. The corrosion products primarily form a double-layer structure; the bottom layer consists of relatively stable Cu2O, while the type of corrosion product in the upper layer is strongly influenced by the local climatic environment, predominantly containing CuSO4, CuSO4(OH), and Cu2Cl(OH)3. In dry areas, copper oxides tend to form, whereas in humid areas, copper sulfides are more likely to grow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The copper content in copper sulfide significantly influences the material properties, potentially affecting interfacial non‐radiative recombination in perovskite solar cells. Here, a simple ball‐milling strategy is used to obtain Cu‐poor (cupric sulfide, CuS) and Cu‐rich (cuprous sulfide, Cu2S) nanoparticles (in which CuS and Cu2S are the dominant phases respectively, containing a mixture of CuO/Cu(OH)2 species) from commercial cupric‐ and cuprous‐sulfide powders respectively. The resulting Cu‐poor nanoparticles exhibit a well‐crystallized hexagonal structure, suppressing the formation of harmful CuO/Cu(OH)2 byproducts. Additionally, the Cu‐poor nanoparticles uniformly cover the perovskite, effectively addressing residual PbI2 at grain boundaries and constructing a hole‐transport channel at the interface between perovskite and spiro‐OMeTAD [2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis (N, N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene]. In contrast, the Cu‐rich nanoparticles exhibit a non‐crystalline structure with excessive CuO/Cu(OH)2 byproducts. Their aggregation and non‐uniform morphology on the perovskite surface likely result from the charge‐controlled interactions from the big bond polarity in cupric sulfide. Moreover, the presence of excessive CuO/Cu(OH)2 byproducts increases hydrophilic sites, weakening interfacial defect passivation and compromising device performance. Consequently, perovskite solar cells using copper‐rich CuS interface passivation layers achieved a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of over 25% and maintained ≈87% of the initial PCE after 2,300 h of storage in air, outperforming copper‐rich Cu2S‐based devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) are considered as emerging functional materials that present potentials in fabrication of intelligent soft robots, biomimetic devices and photonic actuators. Here, a new functional liquid crystalline (LC) monomer with dynamic boronic ester group is designed and synthesized. This new molecule has a wide LC phase and polymerizable acrylic double bonds, which facilitates subsequent polymerization to prepare films. The prepared LCEs matrix is intrinsically self‐healable and self‐weldable. In addition, such material can be used as versatile matrix to be functionalized as diverse devices. By introducing the humidity responsive aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) molecules into the LCEs film, which exhibit bright fluorescence at low relative humidity (RH). Finally, copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticles are doped into the LCEs film to achieve programmable thermal‐responsive deformations. This work provides valuable insight for the development of smart soft robots in actuating area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring photothermal nanomaterials is essential for new energy and biomedical applications; however, preparing materials with intense absorption, highly efficient light‐to‐heat conversion, and enhanced photostability still faces the enduring challenge. Herein, the study synthesizes atomic‐thin (≈1.6 nm) 2D copper sulfide (AT‐CuS) plasmonic nanocrystals and find its extraordinary photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) reaching up to 94.3% at the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window. Photophysical mechanism studies reveal that the strong localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and out‐of‐plane size effect of AT‐CuS induce strong optical absorption and non‐equilibrium carrier scattering, resulting in a significant carrier‐phonon coupling (7.18 × 1017 J K−1 s−1 m−3), ultimately enhancing the heat generation. Such a photothermal nanomaterial demonstrates at leastmes stronger NIR‐II photoacoustic (PA) signal intensity than that of most commonly used miniature gold nanorods, together with greater biocompatibility and photo‐/thermal‐stability, enabling noninvasive PA imaging of brain microvascular in living animals. This work provides an insight into the rational exploration of superb NIR‐II photothermal and photoacoustic agents for future practical utilizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significant volume of copper smelting slags poses environmental challenges, particularly concerning soil and surface water contamination. However, these slags contain valuable elements such as copper and iron, the recovery of which can contribute to both environmental protection and the circular economy in Chile. This study analyzes, at both laboratory and industrial scales, the recovery of copper sulfides from the slags of the Hernán Videla Lira Smelter in Atacama, Chile. Physical, chemical, and mineralogical characterizations were performed, along with flotation tests (rougher and cleaner) to optimize the grinding degree, pH, reagents, and flotation times. The slag, with a copper grade of 0.71%, contains fayalite, magnetite, quartz, pyrite, and chalcopyrite. In the laboratory, the concentrate obtained in the rougher stage showed a copper grade of 3.7% with a recovery rate of 62.1%; in the cleaner stage, the grade increased to 24.4%, with a recovery rate of 71.7%. At the industrial level, the rougher–cleaner circuit produced concentrates with a copper grade of 27.9% and a recovery rate of 87.5% processing 1344 tons per day, thus demonstrating the viability of this methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using copper acetate (Cu₂(CH₃COO)₄) and thiourea (CH₄N₂S) as precursors, copper sulphide thin films were synthesized on glass substrates by the spin coating method followed by annealing in the nitrogen gas. X-Ray Diffraction patterns show that the as-deposited film is amorphous. Annealing at 350°C is observed to result in the conversion to the cubic chalcocite Cu2S phase, which is confirmed by the EDX spectrum. The analysis of the UV-vis spectra reveals a transmittance of around 65% for the as-deposited film, which increases to 85% by annealing. The optical band gap is found to decrease from 2.70 to 2.55 eV by annealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer stands is a formidable malignancy that poses a significant threat to women's health. Calcium overload, a minimally invasive tumor treatment, aims to accumulate an excessive concentration of Ca2 + within mitochondria, triggering apoptosis. Copper sulfide (CuS) represents a photothermal mediator for tumor hyperthermia. However, relying solely on thermotherapy often proves insufficient in controlling tumor growth. Curcumin (CUR), an herbal compound with anti-cancer properties, inhibits the efflux of exogenous Ca2 + while promoting its excretion from the endoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm. To harness these therapeutic modalities, we have developed a nanoplatform that incorporates hollow CuS nanoparticles (NPs) adorned with multiple CaCO3 particles and internally loaded with CUR. This nanocomposite exhibits high uptake and easy escape from lysosomes, along with the degradation of surrounding CaCO3, provoking the generation of abundant exogenous Ca2+ in situ, ultimately damaging the mitochondria of diseased cells. Impressively, under laser excitation, the CuS NPs demonstrate a photothermal effect that accelerates the degradation of CaCO3, synergistically enhancing the antitumor effect through photothermal therapy. Additionally, fluorescence imaging reveals the distribution of these nanovehicles in vivo, indicating their effective accumulation at the tumor site. This nanoplatform shows promising outcomes for tumor-targeting and the effective treatment in a murine model of cervical cancer, achieved through cascade enhancement of calcium overload-based dual therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chayong Cu-polymetallic deposit is a recently discovered Cu-polymetallic deposit hosted in the Sanjiang Metallogenic Belt within the Tibetan Plateau of China to the northeast of the North Qiangtang terrane. The ore body occurs in siltstone and is controlled by a northwest-trending fault structure. According to the associations, assemblages, and cutting relationships between ore veins, the hydrothermal mineralization period can be divided into three mineralization stages: (1) a molybdenite mineralization stage, (2) a Cu-polymetallic sulfide stage, and (3) a quartz-carbonate stage. Two types of fluid inclusions (FIs), namely, liquid and vapor-rich inclusions, are present in quartz associated with sulfide minerals. Early-stage FIs are both liquid and vapor-rich, homogenized at temperatures ranging from 364.1 to 384.2 °C, and have salinities ranging from 0.70% to 9.60% NaCl equivalent (eqv). The middle-stage FIs are also both liquid- and vapor-rich, homogenized at temperatures ranging from 272.4 to 355.6 °C, and have salinities ranging from 0.53%–17.10% NaCl eqv. The late-stage FIs are liquid, homogenized at temperatures ranging from 209.4 to 255.3 °C, and have salinities ranging from 0.35%–6.87% NaCl eqv. The samples from the deposit have δ34S values of − 21.8‰ to − 19.2‰ and − 5.5‰ to − 6.0‰, suggesting that sulfur was derived from the host sediments and magmatic fluids, respectively. The metallic minerals within the deposit have 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 208Pb/204Pb values of 18.439–18.458, 15.656–15.679, and 38.772–38.863, respectively, suggesting that the metals were derived from the upper crust and orogenic belts. The samples from the deposit have δ18OW values of 2.99‰–7.99‰ and δDW values ranging from − 84.4‰ to − 73.9‰, indicating that the ore-forming fluids were magmatic and mixed with minor amounts of meteoric water. The ore-forming fluid of the Chayong copper polymetallic deposit was a high-temperature, medium- to low-salinity H2O–NaCl–CH4–N2 ± CO2 fluid system. The early high-temperature magmatic fluid, due to boiling, decreased in temperature, and via the mixing of meteoric water, gradually evolved towards the later-stage medium- to low-temperature and low-salinity fluid, causing molybdenite mineralization and forming copper polymetallic sulfide veins and quartz carbonate veins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the versality, surface imperfections and diverse redox chemistry of CuxS, hybrid ion exchangers (HIXs) containing these particles are an interesting object of research, including thermal transformation. The composite materials used for testing were strongly basic anion exchangers, with macroreticular (M) and gel-type structure (G), containing in the poly (styrene/divinylbenzene) skeleton fine particles of covellite/brochantite (M1), covellite (M2), covellite/digenite/djurleite (G1) and covellite/digenite (G2). The prepared HIXs contained 12–16 mass% S + Cu. They were subjected to thermal analysis under air and N2 to identify the role of the inorganic phase in decomposition of the polymeric phase. The results were discussed on the basis of the TG/DTG curves and X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of the solid residues (CuO after combustion, carbon/Cu2S after pyrolysis). It was found that CuxS in the resin phase exhibited oxidative activity promoting the combustion process. The polymeric skeleton of HIXs decomposed in air at a much lower temperature compared to pure resins (400 vs 600 °C). The TG/DTG curves had a model shape, three separate conversions occurring in a narrow temperature range, which indicated sequential decomposition. The low consumption of hydrogen for the reduction of CuxS to Cu2S during pyrolysis was not conducive to condensation of alkyl radicals and increase of the mass of carbon matter. The results advance the understanding of the effect of copper/sulfur-containing fine particles on the thermal decomposition of anion exchanger and can be useful in preparation of multifunctional carbon-containing composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement of rational nano drug delivery systems offers robust tools for achieving synergistic therapeutic outcomes in tumor treatment. In this study, we present the development of pH and near-infrared laser dual-responsive nanoparticles (DOX-CuS@CaCO 3 @PL-PEG, DCCP NPs) based on calcium carbonate, utilizing a one-pot gas diffusion reaction. These nanoparticles enable combined photothermal therapy (PTT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), chemotherapy, and Ca2+-overloading synergistic therapy. Doxorubicin (DOX) and copper sulfide (CuS) NPs were co-loaded in CaCO 3 , followed by PEG surface functionalization. The presence of PEG enhanced the stability of DCCP NPs in aqueous environments. Controlled release of DOX, CuS NPs, and Ca2+ occurs specifically in the acidic tumor microenvironment. Released DOX enhances chemotherapy efficiency, while CuS NPs, upon laser irradiation, induce thermal damage, promoting further drug release and cellular uptake. Additionally, CuS NPs in our system consume excess GSH and generate toxic hydroxyl radicals (·OH) through a Fenton-like reaction, contributing to CDT. These radicals not only directly eliminate tumor cells but also disrupt mitochondrial Ca2+ buffering capacity. Furthermore, Ca2+ released from CaCO 3 induces Ca2+-overloading, intensifying mitochondrial disruption and oxidative damage. The synergistic combination of PTT, CDT, chemotherapy, and Ca2+-overloading showcases significant therapeutic potential, indicating broad applications in tumor therapy. This multifaceted approach holds promise for advancing the field of tumor therapeutics. pH and NIR laser dual-responsive multimodal nanoplatform DCCP NPs can achieve Ca2+-overloading therapy, PTT, CDT and chemotherapy after entering tumor tissues and irradiated by NIR laser. Photothermal light improves chemotherapy effect and CDT efficiency, while ROS generated by CDT disrupts Ca2+ buffer capacity and synergizes with CaCO 3 degradation to release large amount of Ca2+, leading to Ca2+-overloading. [Display omitted] • CuS NPs produce effective thermal ablation under NIR laser irradiation. • Photothermal promotes CuS-mediated Fenton-like catalytic activityto generate ROS. • The large amount of Ca2+ released by CaCO 3 degradation causes Ca2+-overloading to damage mitochondria. • Dual-responsive multimodal nanoplatform achieves enhanced cancer therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper sulfide (CuS) is a material of growing interest due to its distinctive electronic, optical, and catalytic properties. In this study, we successfully synthesized ultrathin CuS crystals, with thicknesses as low as 14 nm and lateral dimensions reaching 60 μm, using a single-step chemical vapor deposition process. Detailed structural, compositional, and morphological analyses revealed intrinsic lattice defects, including stacking faults and domain misorientations. These defects disrupt the centrosymmetry of the CuS lattice and are responsible for an unexpected second harmonic generation response, an uncommon behavior in centrosymmetric materials. In addition, we measured the first-order temperature coefficients of Raman shifts, providing insights into the thermal dynamics of the CuS crystal structure. These findings position CuS as a potential material for nonlinear optical applications, while reinforcing its established roles in catalysis and electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold is a significant revenue source for custom copper smelters facing profitability challenges due to low treatment and refining charges, stricter regulations, and rising costs. Gold is also often blended with copper concentrates, but precise recovery rates from smelting processes are poorly documented despite gold critical economic importance. This paper aims to provide the first comprehensive estimates of gold first-pass recovery across various operational units within the copper sulfide concentrate processing flowsheet. It evaluates the effectiveness of different copper smelting and converting technologies in recovering gold. Optimizing gold first-pass recovery is especially important to enhance immediate financial returns and responsiveness to market dynamics, allowing companies to capitalize on favorable gold prices without delays. Given the absence of direct measurements for gold recovery rates, this research develops an estimation method based on understanding gold loss mechanisms during smelting. This study identifies and analyzes key input and output parameters by examining data from various copper producers. By correlating these parameters with gold loss, the research estimates gold first-pass recovery rates within the copper smelting process. Among integrated smelting-converting routes, the flash smelting to Peirce–Smith converting route achieves the highest gold first-pass recovery (98.8–99.5%), followed by the Mitsubishi continuous smelting and converting process (94.3–99.8%), bottom-blowing smelting to bottom-blowing converting (95.8%), flash smelting to flash converting (95.5%), Teniente smelting to Peirce–Smith converting (95.2%), and the Noranda continuous smelting and converting process (94.8%). The final recovery rates are expected to be higher considering the by-products' internal recirculation and post-processing within the copper flow sheet. Additionally, superior gold recoveries are attributed to advanced metallurgical practices and control systems, which vary even among companies with similar technologies. This research demonstrates that copper smelting can effectively recover over 99% of gold from sulfide concentrates. Gold accumulates up to 1000 times its original concentration in anode slime during electrolytic refining, generating 5–10 kg of slime per ton of copper, which is further processed to recover gold and other by-products. Major smelters operate precious metal plants where recovering gold from highly concentrated anode slime is both cost-effective and efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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