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The increased environmental presence of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPLs) and the potential health risks associated with their exposure classify them as environmental pollutants with special environmental and health concerns. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential risks associated with secondary MNPLs. In this context, using “true-to-life” MNPLs, resulting from the laboratory degradation of plastic goods, may be a sound approach. These non-commercial secondary MNPLs must be labeled to track their presence/journeys inside cells or organisms. Because the cell internalization of MNPLs is commonly analyzed using fluorescence techniques, the use of fluorescent dyes may be a sound method to label them. Five different compounds comprising two chemical dyes (Nile Red and Rhodamine-B), one optical brightener (Opticol), and two industrial dyes (Amarillo Luminoso and iDye PolyPink) were tested to determine their potential for such applications. Using commercial standards of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPLs) with an average size of 170 nm, different characteristics of the selected dyes such as the absence of impact on cell viability, specificity for plastic staining, no leaching, and lack of interference with other fluorochromes were analyzed. Based on the overall data obtained in the wide battery of assays performed, iDye PolyPink exhibited the most advantages, with respect to the other compounds, and was selected to effectively label “true-to-life” MNPLs. These advantages were confirmed using a proposed protocol, and labeling titanium-doped PETNPLs (obtained from the degradation of milk PET plastic bottles), as an example of “true-to-life” secondary NPLs. These results confirmed the usefulness of iDye PolyPink for labeling MNPLs and detecting cell internalization, A. Villacorta was supported by PhD fellowships from the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID), from the CONICYT PFCHA/DOCTORADO BECAS CHILE/2020–72210237. L. Vela was supported by a Ph.D. fellowship from the Fundación Carolina. M. Morataya-Reyes hold a Ph.D. FI fellowship from the Generalitat de Catalunya. A. Hernández was granted an ICREA ACADEMIA award. I.H. Valido was supported by “Ayudas Margarita Salas para la formación de jóvenes doctores”, Ministerio de Universidades (Spain). This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement No. 965196. This work was also partially supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation [PID2020-116789, RB-C43], and by the Generalitat de Catalunya (2021-SGR-00731 and 2021-SGR-00723), Postprint (published version)

Chronic wounds are persistent non-healing lesions whose complex management is due to the interplay of multiple factors promoting chronicity, such as oxidative stress, overexpressed enzyme activities impeding the tissue repair and bacterial contamination. Currently marketed chronic wound dressings are designed mainly to absorb wound exudate, and at most to release antimicrobial agents, usually ionic silver. However, an effective wound repair requires addressing the multifactorial nature of the wound in a holistic approach. This study explores the potential of metal phenolic network (MPN) nanoparticles (NPs), comprised of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and cobalt, as active agents and structural elements in wound dressings. The MPN NPs were able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), disturb bacterial membrane, and inhibit the biofilm of both gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Owing to the high interfacial activity of their phenolic shells, the NPs drove the self-assembly of thiolated hyaluronic acid (THA) hydrogels featuring injectability, self-healing, stimuli-responsive NPs delivery in wound microenvironment, and control over deleterious enzyme activities, oxidative stress and bacterial colonisation. Specifically, the hydrogels inhibited matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) by 60 and 80 %, respectively, and achieved 4-log reduction of S. aureus and 2-log reduction of P. aeruginosa concentrations. Finally, the hydrogels were in-vivo validated in a mouse animal model, showing lack of toxicity and similar wound healing efficiency as an antibiotic-containing commercial product., This work was supported by Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness Projects (MINECO) CoatToSave—Nanoenabled hydrogel coatings against antimicrobial-resistant catheter-related infections (PID2019-104111RB-I00) and NANOGErida – Self-assembled nano-enabled hydrogels targeting multiple chronicity factors in wounds (PID2022-142229OB-I00). G. F acknowledges Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and Banco Santander for his PhD grant (113 FPI-UPC 2018). T.T. acknowledges ICREA Academia 2021-07., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Enhancing sensitivity and hysteresis in capacitance humidity sensors is vital for precise, reliable, and consistent humidity control. This study explores this concern by incorporating polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and SiO2 nanoparticles into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based ionic liquid gel polymer electrolyte (ILGPE), studying two capacitor types: ILGPE and SiO2 composite ILGPE (CILGPE) capacitors. These novel electrolytes use ammonium acetate as a plasticiser, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide as an ionic liquid, SiO2 nanoparticles as a composite, and PVA and PVP as host polymers. Capacitors were characterised and modelled using impedance spectroscopy (IS), providing an electrophysical insight into their working principle. Sensitivity and hysteresis were evaluated within a 20–90% relative humidity (RH) range at 25 °C. The SiO2 CILGPE capacitor with PVP presented superior sensitivity and hysteresis, revealing the beneficial combination of SiO2 nanoparticles and PVP. These benefits are due to the creation of pathways that facilitate water molecule diffusion and crystallinity reduction in PVA-ILGPE. In particular, at 10 kHz, it demonstrates a calibrated capacitance sensitivity of 2660 pF/%RH and a hysteresis of 3.28 %RH. This optimised capacitor outperforms some previous humidity capacitive sensors in sensitivity while exhibiting low hysteresis., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Nanoparticles (NP), aerosols under 100 nm of nominal diameter, might be responsible of multiple diseases (cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, cancer, etc.) in mid- and long-term exposed workers in industrial layouts. These particles in suspension are not just originated from nanomaterials manufacturing, but also accidentally by plenty of industrial high-energetic and machining processes, such as atmospheric plasma spraying, welding or ceramic tiles firing, representing a potential danger for manufacturers from a wide variety of sectors. This paper will present a simulation tool of Incidental NanoParticles’ (INP) concentration in industrial environments that is currently under development within the Life Nanohealth European project to assess occupational health to external and internal hygiene risk prevention services. The concentration model has been implemented through a Modelica library and evaluated with a case study with real work conditions in an industrial plant with different processes, materials, ventilation systems and sources’ nature. Obtained results show simulations that are coherent with the field campaigns’ data, reaching a prediction precision over the error of the used sensors and a high correlation between measurements and model., This research is part of a LIFE-funded project (LIFE20 ENV/ES/000187). The authors acknowledge SALONI (https://saloni.com/) for their committed cooperation. The first author gratefully acknowledges the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya for the financia., Postprint (published version)

This study consists of the fabrication of structures of 2 ?m porous silicon. These structures in post processing have the capacity to hold nanoparticles inside with the aim of producing green hydrogen by catalysis. First, a sample preparation is made based on blank silicon wafers. The purpose of this preparation is to determine the location where the pores will be created. Then an electrochemical etching process is carried out to create 250 ?m depth pores. By reducing the amount of silicon in the walls, a process is used to increase the thickness of the pores. Then, a membrane is created where the silicon is removed from the opposite side of the sample, so these pores reach the end of the sample. Once the process is complete, it is oxidised and nanoparticles can be deposited inside it. The main objective of this study is to fabricate macroporous silicon and then characterize the results in order to draw conclusions to improve the process., Este estudio consiste en la fabricación de estructuras de silicio poroso de 2 um. Estas estructuras en postproceso tienen la capacidad de albergar nanopartículas en su interior con el objetivo de producir hidrógeno verde por catálisis. En primer lugar, se realiza una preparación de la muestra a partir de obleas de silicio. El objetivo de esta preparación es determinar el lugar donde se crearán los poros. A continuación, se lleva a cabo un proceso de ataque electroquímico para crear poros de 250 um de profundidad. Después se reduce la cantidad de silicio de las paredes mediante un proceso de ensanchamiento de los poros. A continuación, se crea una membrana en la que se elimina el silicio del lado opuesto de la muestra, de modo que estos poros llegan hasta el final de la muestra. Una vez finalizado el proceso, se oxida y se pueden depositar nanopartículas en su interior. El objetivo principal de este estudio es fabricar silicio macroporoso y luego caracterizar los resultados para sacar conclusiones que permitan mejorar el proceso., Aquest estudi consisteix a fabricar estructures de silici porós de 2 um. Aquestes estructures en postprocés tenen capacitat per albergar nanopartícules al seu interior amb l'objectiu de produir hidrogen verd per catàlisi. En primer lloc, es fa una preparació de la mostra a partir d'oblees de silici. L´objectiu d´aquesta preparació és determinar el lloc on es crearan els porus. A continuació, es duu a terme un procés d'atac electroquímic per crear porus de 250 um de profunditat. Després es redueix la quantitat de silici de les parets mitjançant un procés d'eixamplament dels porus. A continuació, es crea una membrana on s'elimina el silici del costat oposat de la mostra, de manera que aquests porus arriben fins al final de la mostra. Un cop finalitzat el procés, s'oxida i es poden dipositar nanopartícules a l'interior. L'objectiu principal d'aquest estudi és fabricar silici macroporós i caracteritzar els resultats per treure conclusions que permetin millorar el procés.

Little is known about the production of ruby red copper stained glasses from the Medieval and Renaissance periods apart from the fact that the colour is due to the presence of small metallic copper nanoparticles and that tin, the most common reducing agent used in copper red glass production since the 19th century, is not present. In fact, very few workshops in Europe were able to make red glass in historical times, and they kept it secret, so very little is known about how it was obtained. These workshops exported the red glass throughout Europe. Recently, the presence of copper sulphide particles and the data obtained in the replication red glass following historical recipes suggested that sulphur might be the key ingredient in this process. Here, a collection of historical red glasses from these periods has been analysed using a combination of microanalytical techniques; Electron Microprobe (EM) and Field Emission and Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) to verify the chemical composition and nanostructure of the glasses, Synchrotron radiation micro-X-Ray Diffraction (micro-XRD) to establish the nature of the nanocrystalline precipitates, and S, Cu and Fe K-edge micro-X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy (micro-XAS) to determine the speciation. The data obtained show that the oxidation of S2- into S6+ in the glass is responsible for the precipitation of copper nanoparticles. The development of a sulphide-silicate partition and the presence of Fe3+ in the melt give rise to the precipitation of the high-pressure tetragonal polymorph of chalcocite (Cu2S). Differences between the Medieval and Renaissance red glass are determined., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

This document is the Accepted Manuscript version of a Published Work that appeared in final form inACS Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering, copyright © 2023 American Chemical Society after peer review and technical editing by the publisher. To access the final edited and published work see https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.2c06573., Hydrogen is a promising fossil-fuel alternative fuel owing to its environmentally neutral emissions and high energy density. However, the need for purified water and external power are critical hindrances to the implementation of hydrogen production. The present work demonstrates the potential to overcome these shortcomings through piezo-photocatalysis of seawater using defective BaTiO3–x (BTO) nanoparticles. This material was made piezoelectrically active by a straightforward annealing process under different atmospheres, including O2, N2, Ar, or H2, the latter of which caused Ti4+ ¿ Ti(4–x)+ multiple reductions and structural distortions that stabilize piezoelectric tetragonal domains. A suite of experimental techniques was employed to reveal the effects of reduction on the energy band structure. A substantial piezoelectric effect and the presence of self-polarization were confirmed by piezoresponse force microscopy, while simulation work clarified the role of vibrations on band bending deriving from the self-polarization. The hydrogen evolution through photocatalysis, piezocatalysis, and piezo-photocatalysis over the defective BaTiO3–x nanoparticles was characterized with deionized (DI) water, simulated seawater, and natural seawater. A promising HER with a rate of 132.4 µmol/g/h was achieved using DI water through piezo-photocatalysis without a cocatalyst. In contrast, a substantial HER rate of 48.7 µmol/g/h was obtained for natural seawater, despite the deleterious impact of dissolved ions. The present work offers new perspectives for large-scale green H2 production using abundant natural resources with a conventional piezoelectric material that is readily available but still affected by the ions dissolved in seawater., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (author's final draft)

Los nanocompuestos porosos multifuncionales, como la celulosa bacteriana (BC), han suscitado el interés de muchos investigadores por sus posibles usos en biomedicina. Las estrategias actuales pretenden añadir funcionalidades adicionales a la BC, como características antibacterianas, antifúngicas, antioxidantes y antiinflamatorias, mediante el uso de nanopartículas (NPs) o polímeros naturales. El objetivo de esta tesis es desarrollar nuevos nanocompuestos de BC mediante la adición de NPs de ceria y de quitosano. Por un lado, las NPs de ceria muestran un uso potencial en biomedicina. Por otro lado, el quitosano es un polímero natural con una estructura similar a la celulosa, pero con atractivas propiedades antibacterianas, antifúngicas, antioxidantes y antiinflamatorias. En esta tesis, el trabajo se centró en la producción de nanocompuestos funcionales utilizando películas de BC como matriz, y de NPs de ceria y quitosano como cargas. En primer lugar, se estudiaron diferentes enfoques para la síntesis de NPs de ceria (coprecipitación y descomposición térmica). Se prestó especial atención a la morfología y la estabilidad de las NPs de ceria en presencia de distintos tensioactivos. Los mejores resultados se obtuvieron con el método de coprecipitación, que proporcionó NPs en un amplio rango de tamaños (2 a 7 nm) con alta cristalinidad. Se utilizaron diferentes moléculas con propiedades interesantes, como el ácido glutámico o el quitosano, como ligandos superficiales de las NPs añadiéndolos durante la síntesis o poco después. Estos últimos mostraron mejores resultados, aunque en ambos casos los estados de aglomeración de las NPs se vieron comprometidos. A continuación, se funcionalizaron las películas de BC añadiendo ceria y quitosano en el proceso de biosíntesis o sintetizando las NPs sobre películas previamente producidas. La carga de NPs en las películas de celulosa bacteriana se confirmó mediante ambos enfoques, pero se consiguieron mayores cargas cuando las partícula, Multifunctional porous nanocomposites such as bacterial cellulose (BC) have gathered the interest of many researchers for their potential uses in wound dressing scaffolds or drug delivery. Current strategies aim to add additional functionalities to BC such as antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory characteristics by using nanoparticles (NPs) or natural polymers. This thesis aims to develop novel BC nanocomposites by adding ceria NPs and chitosan polymers. On one hand, ceria NPs show potential use in biomedicine. On the other hand, chitosan is a natural polymer with a similar structure to cellulose but with appealing antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. In this thesis, activities focused on the production of functional nanocomposites using BC films as a matrix, and ceria NPs and chitosan as fillers. First, different approaches for the synthesis of ceria NPs were studied (coprecipitation and thermal decomposition). Particular attention was paid to the morphology and the stability of ceria NPs in the presence of different surfactants. Best results were obtained for the coprecipitation method providing NPs in a wide range of sizes (2 to 7 nm) with high crystallinity. Different molecules having interesting properties such as glutamic acid or chitosan were used as surface ligands for the NPs adding them during the synthesis or soon after. The latter showed better results although in both cases the agglomeration states of the NPs were compromised. Next, BC films were functionalized by adding ceria and chitosan into the biosynthesis process or by synthesizing the NPs on top of previously produced films. The loading of NPs into bacteria cellulose films was confirmed by both approaches but higher loadings were achieved when particles were grown directly onto produced BC films. Besides, films showed a decrease in the mechanical resistance resulting from the structural loss of cellulose.

Les nanopartícules de carboni fluorescents o els punts quàntics de carboni (CQD) són una nova classe de nanomaterials de carboni que han sorgit recentment i han despertat molt d'interès com a competidors potencials dels punts quàntics de semiconductors convencionals. A més de les seves propietats òptiques comparables, els CQD tenen els avantatges desitjats de baixa toxicitat, baix cost respectuós amb el medi ambient i rutes sintètiques senzilles. A més, la passivació superficial i la funcionalització dels CQD permeten el control de les seves propietats fisicoquímiques. L'objectiu d'aquest treball és la síntesi de CQD per detectar i quantificar l'elastasa en solució. Per fer-ho anclem un pèptid específic a la superfície dels CQD per reconèixer l'enzim., Las nanopartículas de carbono fluorescentes o puntos cuánticos de carbono (CQD) son una nueva clase de nanomateriales de carbono que han surgido recientemente y han ganado mucho interés como competidores potenciales de los puntos cuánticos de semiconductores convencionales. Además de sus propiedades ópticas comparables, los CQD tienen las ventajas deseadas de baja toxicidad, respeto por el medio ambiente, bajo costo y rutas sintéticas simples. Además, la pasivación superficial y la funcionalización de los CQD permiten el control de sus propiedades fisicoquímicas. El objetivo de este trabajo es la síntesis de CQDs para detectar y cuantificar elastasa en solución. Para ello, anclamos un péptido específico en la superficie de los CQD para reconocer la enzima., Fluorescent carbon nanoparticles or carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new class of carbon nanomaterials that have emerged recently and have garnered much interest as potential competitors to conventional semiconductor quantum dots. In addition to their comparable optical properties, CQDs have the desired advantages of low toxicity, environmental friendliness low cost, and simple synthetic routes. Moreover, surface passivation and functionalization of CQDs allow for the control of their physicochemical properties. The aim of this work is the synthesis of CQDs to detect and quantify elastase in solution. To do that we anchor a specific peptide on the surface of the CQDs to recognize the enzyme. Electrochemical tests were performed to study the electrochemical activity such as cyclovoltammetry and impedance spectroscopy., Incoming

This research explores the impact of Cu composition, heating temperature, and milling time on the production of copper-tin alloy nanoparticles. By employing design of experiments techniques, the study systematically evaluates these input variables and their effects on particle size, optical density, and number of colonies. The identification of new Cu3Sn phases in the nanoparticle structure contributes to the novelty of this research. The findings highlight the potential for optimizing copper-tin alloy nanoparticle synthesis and enhancing their antibacterial properties. Mechanical alloying is found to produce nanoparticles up to 15 nm in size. Increasing the percentage of copper leads to improved antibacterial properties. This work provides insights into the synthesis process of copper-tin mechanical alloying and their potential for antibacterial applications., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Nowadays, livestock manure, especially pig slurry, presents a significant environmental problem. In Catalonia, there are approximately 7.9 million pigs that generate around 9.4 million tons of slurries each year (INE, 2020). This waste not only poses problems for soil and water, but the gases emitted into the atmosphere also contribute to the greenhouse effect. Currently, there are treatment technologies available to reduce the negative effects caused by this type of waste, which holds great potential to be used as an energy source. Among these methods, anaerobic digestion (AD) is one of the most widely used. AD allows the recovery of a large amount of energy contained in organic matter in the form of methane and carbon dioxide-rich biogas, while also obtaining a much more stable digested product. This study examines the effect of adding zerovalent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) to laboratory-scale anaerobic digesters for pig slurry treatment, aiming to increase the production and quality of biogas under psychrophilic conditions (ambient temperature). Experiments have been conducted in two types of configurations: discontinuous, to determine the optimal dosage of nanoparticles (NPs), and afterwards in a continuous system, using a complete mixed tank reactor (continuous stirred tank reactor, CSRT), both under psychrophilic conditions. Monitoring has been carried out, tracking both the biogas and methane production, as well as the characteristics of the final effluent. Discontinuous assay results show that the optimal dosage of NPs to achieve the highest biogas production is 84 mg NP/g VS, compared to the other treatments of 42 and 168 mg NP/g VS. Using the higher dosage, there is inhibition of microbial activity. Continuous results have shown a 10% increase in methane concentration compared to the control reactor. However, a decrease in the total volumetric biogas production has also been observed due to various factors such as temperature, ammonia concentration in the re, Hoy en día las deyecciones ganaderas y en especial los purines de cerdo presentan una problemática medioambiental de gran importancia. En Cataluña hay unos 7,9 millones de cerdos, que cada año generan alrededor de 9,4 millones de toneladas de purines (INE, 2020). Este residuo no solo plantea problemas para el suelo y el agua, sino que los gases emitidos a la atmósfera contribuyen al problema del efecto invernadero. Actualmente, existen tecnologías de tratamiento para reducir los efectos negativos que ocasionan este tipo de residuos, los cuales a su vez contienen un gran potencial para ser utilizados como fuente de energía. Entre estos métodos, la digestión anaeróbica (DA) es uno de los más utilizados. La DA permite la recuperación de una gran cantidad de energía contenida en la materia orgánica en forma de biogás, un gas rico en metano y dióxido de carbono, al mismo tiempo que se obtiene un producto digerido mucho más estable y con un alto valor como fertilizante. En este trabajo se estudia el efecto de la adición de nanopartículas de hierro zerovalente (nZVI) en digestores anaerobios a escala de laboratorio para el tratamiento de purines de cerdo, con el objetivo de aumentar la producción y la calidad del biogás en condiciones de temperatura psicrófilas (temperatura ambiente). Se han realizado experimentos en dos tipos de configuraciones: de forma discontinua para determinar la dosis óptima de nanopartículas (NP) y posteriormente en continuo en un reactor de mezcla completa (continuous stirred tank reactor, CSRT). El seguimiento se ha llevado a cabo monitorizando tanto la producción de biogás como su composición en metano y dióxido de carbono, así como las características del efluente final. Los resultados de los ensayos discontinuos han mostrado que la dosis óptima de NP, entre las ensayadas, que permite alcanzar la mayor producción de biogás es de 84 mg de NP por gramo de SV, en comparación con los otros tratamientos de 42 y 168 mg de NP por gramo de SV. En la do, Avui dia les dejeccions ramaderes i en especial els purins de porc, presenten una problemàtica mediambiental de gran importància. A Catalunya hi ha aproximadament uns 7,9 milions de porcs, que cada any generen unes 9,4 milions de tones de purins (INE, 2020). Aquest residu no només planteja problemes pel sòl i l’aigua, sinó que els gasos emesos a l’atmosfera contribueixen a la problemàtica de l’efecte hivernacle. Actualment existeixen tecnologies de tractament per reduir els efectes negatius que ocasionen aquest tipus de residus, els quals alhora contenen un gran potencial per ser utilitzats com a font d’energia. Entre aquests mètodes, la digestió anaeròbia (DA) n’és un dels més utilitzats. La DA permet la recuperació d’una gran quantitat d’energia continguda en la matèria orgànica en forma de biogàs, gas ric en metà i diòxid de carboni a la vegada que s’obté un producte digerit molt més estable i amb un alt valor com a fertilitzant. En aquest treball s’estudia l’efecte de l’addició de nanopartícules de ferro zerovalent (nZVI) en digestors anaerobis a escala de laboratori per al tractament de purins de porc, amb l’objectiu d’augmentar la producció i la qualitat del biogàs en condicions de temperatura psicròfiles (temperatura ambient). S’han realitzat experiments en dos tipus de configuracions: de forma discontínua per determinar la dosi de nanopartícules (NP’s) òptima i posteriorment en continu en un reactor de mescla completa (continuous stirred tank reactor, CSRT) ambdós en condicions psicròfiles. El seguiment s’ha dut a terme monitoritzat tant la producció de biogàs com la seva composició en metà i diòxid de carboni, així com les característiques de l’efluent final. Els resultats dels assajos en discontinu han mostrat que la dosi òptima de NP’s, entre les assajades, que permet assolir la major producció de biogàs és de 84 mg NP/g SV, en comparació als altres tractaments de 42 i 168 mg NP/g SV. En la dosi més elevada hi ha inhibició de l’activitat microbiana. Els r, Objectius de Desenvolupament Sostenible::13 - Acció per al Clima

L'ús de lents de contacte (LC) està molt estès actualment, tant per a la correcció d'errors refractius com amb fins estètics. Tot i els seus múltiples avantatges, un dels principals inconvenients de les LC és que són font d'infeccions oculars, com la queratitis, a causa de la formació de biopel·lícules bacterianes, principalment per Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Aquesta situació es veu agreujada per l'aparició i la propagació de resistències antimicrobianes als fàrmacs convencionals. Per això, és urgent desenvolupar solucions innovadores, basades en materials biocompatibles, que impedeixin o dificultin la formació de biofilms a la superfície d'aquest tipus de lents. La primera part d'aquest projecte està centrada en el desenvolupament i la caracterització de nanopartícules híbrides de plata-àcid húmic i acilasa amb propietats antibacterianes i antibiofilms. Aquestes nanopartícules metall-orgàniques es van utilitzar per a l'enginyeria de recobriments multicapa sobre material de silicona de gelatina degradable per enzims produïts per bacteris i poli (sulfobetaïna) metacrilat (PSBMA) antiincrustant, seguint els principis de l'enfocament d'autoassemblatge capa per capa (LbL). Van aplicar-se l'espectrometria infraroja i l'angle de contacte amb l'aigua per confirmar-ne la formació i avaluar la hidrofilicitat del recobriment de nanopartícules obtingut sobre la superfície de silicona. L'eficàcia antibacteriana i antibiopel·lícula d'aquests recobriments nanomètrics es va validar in vitro davant de P. aeruginosa. La citotoxicitat de les nanopartícules i els recobriments nanohabilitats va analitzar-se utilitzant línies cel·lulars humanes, com a aspecte fonamental per definir-ne l'aplicació biomèdica. Les proves realitzades durant l'execució del projecte van confirmar que els recobriments nano-habilitats desenvolupats de nanopartícules híbrides de plata-àcid húmic i acilasa contribueixen a reduir la formació de biofilms de P. aeruginosa, sent altament biocompatibles.

Pt-based catalysts have been widely used for the removal of short-chain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as propane. In this study, we synthesized Pt nanoparticles with a size of ca. 2.4 nm and loaded them on various fine-shaped CeO2 with different facets to investigate the effect of CeO2 morphology on the complete oxidation of propane. The Pt/CeO2-o catalyst with {111} facets exhibited superior catalytic activity compared to the Pt/CeO2-r catalyst with {110} and {100} facets. Specifically, the turnover frequency (TOF) value of Pt/CeO2-o was 1.8 times higher than that of Pt/CeO2-r. Moreover, Pt/CeO2-o showed outstanding long-term stability during 50 h. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) revealed that the excellent performance of Pt/CeO2-o is due to the prevalence of metallic Pt species, which promotes C–C bond cleavage and facilitates the rapid removal of surface formate species. In contrast, a stronger metal–support interaction in Pt/CeO2-r leads to easier oxidation of Pt species and the accumulation of intermediates, which is detrimental to the catalytic activity. Our work provides insight into the oxidation of propane on different nanoshaped Pt/CeO2 catalysts., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Hollow Ag–Pd nanoparticles have potentially high catalytic performance owing to their larger surface area compared to their corresponding solid nanoparticles. We successfully fabricated hollow Ag–Pd alloy nanodendrites and nanoboxes by using different Pd precursors (H2PdCl4 and Pd(acac)2) to achieve large surface area nanoboxes. Interestingly, the use of a H2PdCl4 precursor led to the formation of hollow nanodendrite structures, whereas the slower reduction of Pd(acac)2 led to the formation of hollow nanoboxes. The microstructure and chemical composition of Ag–Pd nanoparticles and properties of their growth solutions were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy., This work is supported from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation and the Swedish Research Council., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Les matériaux thermochromes tels que le dioxyde de vanadium (VO2) sont étudiés et utilisés pour leurs nombreuses propriétés physiques comme leur transition métal-isolant proche de la température ambiante (TIMT = 68°C), qui induit des changements brusques de conductivité électrique et optique dans l’infrarouge. Par ailleurs, ces matériaux s’avèrent être intéressant de par la possibilité de les doper avec de nombreux éléments métalliques tels que le chrome, considéré comme un des dopants métalliques de type « p » les plus efficaces. Pour une application comme les batteries Li-ion, le dopage du vanadium avec un élément comme le chrome est, en théorie, très intéressant car il permet de créer des états inoccupés proches de la bande de valence afin d’abaisser le niveau de Fermi du matériau et donc permettre le transfert d’électrons dans des états plus bas. De plus, le dopage avec un tel élément a déjà prouvé son efficacité dans l’augmentation de la température de transition et la stabilisation de phases métastables monocliniques du VO2 (M2 et T), prometteuses théoriquement mais jamais étudiées d’un point de vue expérimental pour les applications de batteries. Dans cette étude préliminaire, des couches minces de dioxyde de vanadium pur et de dioxyde de vanadium dopé au chrome ont été synthétisées par ablation laser simple faisceau en différentes conditions (mono-cible et multi-cibles). Différents substrats (Si/SiO2, titane et aluminium en annexe) ont été utilisés. Ils sont considérés pour les matériaux conducteurs, comme la face arrière d’électrodes de batterie. Différentes épaisseurs (50, 100 et 150 nm) et compositions en chrome (de 0 à 13%) ont été étudiées. Des travaux novateurs ont été mis en avant dans ce projet, à savoir l’étude des propriétés des couches minces de VO2 dopé au chrome, l’amélioration des performances électrochimiques (cyclabilité, capacité spécifique, réaction rédox) des cathodes de dioxyde de vanadium avec ajout d’un pourcentage spécifique de chrome

Les plasmas poussiéreux sont des gaz ionisés globalement neutres composés d’espèces chargées (électrons, ions positifs et négatifs) ainsi que de particules chargées de matière condensée. Ce type de plasma est assez répandu naturellement, que ce soit dans l’atmosphère de planètes ou encore dans les nuages interstellaires, mais également en laboratoire, dans les tokamaks ou dans des dispositifs de plasmas froids. Notre étude porte sur la croissance de nanoparticules de silicium dans un plasma froid basse-pression Radio-Fréquence (RF) d’argon-silane, plus particulièrement sur l’influence des interactions entres particules solides sur le processus de coagulation. La croissance de nanoparticules commencera dans notre cas par la nucléation, en effet les particules solides ne sont pas introduites dans le plasma, mais produites par des réactions chimiques de croissance moléculaire dans le plasma. Les processus de coagulation et de collage viennent ensuite. La coagulation se produit lorsque deux particules solides coalescent pour former une plus grande structure. Les interactions entre particules sont très importantes dans ce processus, l’augmentant ou la diminuant selon qu’elles soient attractives ou répulsives. Durant le processus de collage, les espèces chimiques du plasma (radicaux et ions positifs majoritairement) viennent se coller à la surface des particules solides faisant croitre leurs diamètres. Une première partie du projet concerne l’étude de l’interaction entre clusters de silicium, et cela par l’utilisation de calculs quantiques (avec le logiciel de DFT SIESTA). Nous comparons les résultats obtenus avec des potentiels analytiques : le premier représentant les interaction de van der Waals (potentiel d’Hamaker), et le second représentant les interactions électrostatiques dépendantes de la charge, c’est-à-dire les effets coulombien ainsi que les effets de polarisation (potentiel IPA). De plus, de ces calculs sont ressortis des facteurs de corrections, facteur mult

The hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol over Cu/ZnO-based catalysts is highly sensitive to the surface composition and catalyst structure. Thus, its optimization requires a deep understanding of the influence of the pre-catalyst structure on its evolution under realistic reaction conditions, including the formation and stabilization of the most active sites. Here, the role of the pre-catalyst shape (cubic vs spherical) in the activity and selectivity of ZnO-supported Cu nanoparticles was investigated during methanol synthesis. A combination of ex situ, in situ, and operando microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction methods revealed drastic changes in the morphology and composition of the shaped pre-catalysts under reaction conditions. In particular, the rounding of the cubes and partial loss of the (100) facets were observed, although such motifs remained in smaller domains. Nonetheless, the initial pre-catalyst structure was found to strongly affect its subsequent transformation in the course of the CO2 hydrogenation reaction and activity/selectivity trends. In particular, the cubic Cu particles displayed an increased activity for methanol production, although at the cost of a slightly reduced selectivity when compared to similarly sized spherical particles. These findings were rationalized with the help of density functional theory calculations., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

As the most abundant renewable aromatic polymer on the planet, lignin is gaining growing interest in replacing petroleum-based chemicals and products. However, only <5 % of industrial lignin waste is revalorized in its macromolecular form as additives, stabilizing agents or dispersant and surfactants. Herein, revalorization of this biomass was achieved by implementing an environmentally-friendly continuous sonochemical nano- transformation to obtain highly concentrated lignin nanoparticles (LigNPs) dispersions for added-value material applications. With the aim to further model and control a large-scale ultrasound-assisted lignin nano- transformation, a two-level factorial design of experiment (DoE) was implemented varying the ultrasound (US) amplitude, flow rate, and lignin concentration. Size and polydispersity measurements together with the UV–Vis spectra of lignin recorded at different time intervals of sonication allowed to monitor and understand the sonochemical process on a molecular level. The light scattering profile of sonicated lignin dispersions showed a significant particle size reduction in the first 20 min, followed by moderate particle size decrease below 700 nm until the end of the 2 h process. The response surface analysis (RSA) of the particle size data revealed that the lignin concentration and sonication time were the most important factors to achieve smaller NPs. From a mechanistic point of view, a strong impact of the particle–particle collisions due to sonication seems to be responsible for the decrease in particle size and homogenization of the particle distribution. Unexpectedly, a strong interaction between the flow rate and US amplitude on the particle size and nanotransformation efficiency was observed, yielding smaller LigNPs at high amplitude and low flow rate or vice versa. The data derived from the DoE were used to model and predict the size and polydispersity of the sonicated lignin. Furthermore, the use of the NPs spectral process, This research was funded by the European Union under the framework of the projects BIOMAT (H2020-953270) and rLightBioCom (HORIZON-101091691). G. F. acknowledges Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and Banco Santander for his PhD grant (113 FPI-UPC 2018)., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

L'objectiu d'aquest projecte final de màster va ser estudiar els impactes adversos de la termo-mecanoquímica aplicada en la preparació de catalitzadors heterogenis per a les reaccions d'oxidació de CO i COPrOx. El procés es va dur a terme en fase gas utilitzant un reactor tubular, on es van analitzar les corbes de conversió i selectivitat de totes dues reaccions. Per monitorar els gasos de sortida del reactor, es va utilitzar l'anàlisi de cromatografia de gasos amb argó com a gas portador inert. Es van realitzar diferents processos de síntesi mecanoquímica del catalitzador, variant la temperatura i el temps de durada del procés de síntesi del Au/CeO_2. Aquests canvis de temperatura es van aconseguir mitjançant l'addició d'energia externa en forma de calor. En el laboratori, es va dissenyar i implementar el sistema de reacció experimental, es va preparar el catalitzador de Au/CeO_2 utilitzant la tècnica mecanoquímica amb un molí de boles, es van realitzar els experiments i es van caracteritzar les mostres. A més, es va dur a terme un estudi econòmic i una breu avaluació de l'impacte mediambiental. L'eficiència de les mostres es va comparar en funció de dos paràmetres principals: la temperatura i el temps de durada de la síntesi mecanoquímica del Au/CeO_2. Els millors resultats es van obtenir en l'oxidació de CO amb la síntesi del catalitzador a temperatura ambient, mentre que en COPrOx es van aconseguir resultats òptims utilitzant mostres escalfades a 50ºC i posteriorment refredades. Aquests troballes destaquen la importància de controlar amb cura els paràmetres de síntesi per a maximitzar l'eficiència dels catalitzadors heterogenis en totes dues reaccions., El objetivo de este proyecto final de máster fue estudiar los impactos adversos de la termo-mecanoquímica aplicada en la preparación de catalizadores heterogéneos para las reacciones de oxidación de CO y COPrOx. El proceso se llevó a cabo en fase gas utilizando un reactor tubular, donde se analizaron las curvas de conversión y selectividad de ambas reacciones. Para monitorear los gases de salida del reactor, se utilizó análisis de cromatografía de gases con argón como gas portador inerte. Se llevaron a cabo diferentes procesos de síntesis del catalizador, variando la temperatura y el tiempo de duración del proceso de síntesis mecanoquímica del Au/CeO_2. Estos cambios de temperatura se lograron mediante la adición de energía externa en forma de calor. En el laboratorio, se diseñó e implementó el sistema de reacción experimental, se preparó el catalizador de Au/CeO_2 utilizando la técnica mecanoquímica con un molino de bolas, se realizaron los experimentos y se caracterizaron las muestras. Además, se llevó a cabo un estudio económico y una breve evaluación del impacto medioambiental. La eficiencia de las muestras se comparó en función de dos parámetros principales: la temperatura y el tiempo de duración de la síntesis mecanoquímica del Au/CeO_2. Los mejores resultados se obtuvieron en la oxidación de CO con la síntesis del catalizador a temperatura ambiente, mientras que en COPrOx se lograron resultados óptimos utilizando muestras calentadas a 50ºC y posteriormente enfriadas. Estos hallazgos resaltan la importancia de controlar cuidadosamente los parámetros de síntesis para maximizar la eficiencia de los catalizadores heterogéneos en ambas reacciones., The objective of this final master's project was to study the adverse impacts of thermo-mechanochemistry applied in the preparation of heterogeneous catalysts for CO oxidation and COPrOx reactions. The process was carried out in the gas phase using a tubular reactor, where the conversion and selectivity curves of both reactions were analyzed. Gas emissions from the reactor were monitored using gas chromatography analysis with argon as an inert carrier gas. Different mechanochemical catalyst synthesis processes were performed, varying the temperature and duration of the Au/CeO_2 catalyst synthesis process. These temperature changes were achieved by adding external energy in the form of heat. In the laboratory, the experimental reaction system was designed and implemented, the Au/CeO_2 catalyst was prepared using the mechanochemical technique with a ball mill, experiments were conducted, and the samples were characterized. Additionally, an economic study and a brief assessment of the environmental impact were carried out. The efficiency of the samples was compared based on two main parameters: the temperature and duration of the Au/CeO_2 mechanochemical synthesis. The best results were obtained in the CO oxidation with catalyst synthesis at room temperature, while in COPrOx, optimal results were achieved using samples heated to 50ºC and subsequently cooled. These findings highlight the importance of carefully controlling the synthesis parameters to maximize the efficiency of heterogeneous catalysts in both reactions.

Les infeccions urinàries associades als dispositius mèdics (MD) són les infeccions més comunes relacionades amb la salut, que representen un augment de la morbiditat i la mortalitat, i una enorme càrrega financera per als sistemes sanitaris. Més del 80 % d'aquestes infeccions es deuen a la formació de biofilms, mentre que aproximadament el 40% de totes les infeccions nosocomials són infeccions urinàries associades a catèters (CAUTI). Les estratègies per reduir l'aparició de CAUTI inclouen la substitució freqüent del dispositiu, que causa molèsties considerables als pacients i augmenta els costos del tractament, o teràpies antibiòtiques agressives amb efectes secundaris associats com la hipersensibilitat, la inflamació i el desenvolupament de resistència antimicrobiana (AMR). Per tant, es necessiten solucions innovadores per a la inhibició del creixement bacterià i la formació de biofilm per millorar la seguretat i l'ús a llarg termini dels catèters, i el confort dels pacients. En aquest treball, es van desenvolupar innovadores nanopartícules de lauril gal·lat carregades de ceragenines (CGNP), imitacions no peptídiques de pèptids antimicrobians, amb una major activitat antibacteriana i estabilitat en un procés sonoquímic d'un sol pas. Els CGNP es van dipositar en plasma activat i preaminat amb (3-aminopropil) trietoxisilà material de silicona juntament amb zwitterions antifouling mitjançant ultrasons d'alta intensitat juntament amb empelt mediat per laccase per obtenir un recobriment estable per inhibir la formació de biofilm. El recobriment nano-habilitat desenvolupat va demostrar ser eficaç contra patògens gramnegatius i grampositius comuns que es troben en els CAUTI. A més, la silicona recoberta es va caracteritzar mitjançant espectroscòpia FTIR-ATR i angle de contacte amb l'aigua. Els resultats van demostrar que el recobriment generat es podria utilitzar per controlar infeccions bacterianes associades a biofilms resistents als antibiòtics., Las infecciones urinarias asociadas a dispositivos médicos (MD) son las infecciones más comunes relacionadas con la atención médica y representan una mayor morbilidad y mortalidad, y una enorme carga financiera para los sistemas de atención médica. Más del 80 % de estas infecciones se deben a la formación de biopelículas, mientras que aproximadamente el 40 % de todas las infecciones nosocomiales son infecciones del tracto urinario asociadas al catéter (ITUAC). Las estrategias para reducir la aparición de CAUTI incluyen el reemplazo frecuente del dispositivo, lo que causa una incomodidad considerable a los pacientes y aumenta los costos del tratamiento, o terapias agresivas con antibióticos con efectos secundarios asociados, como hipersensibilidad, inflamación y desarrollo de resistencia antimicrobiana (AMR). Por lo tanto, se necesitan soluciones innovadoras para la inhibición del crecimiento bacteriano y la formación de biopelículas para mejorar la seguridad y el uso a largo plazo de los catéteres y la comodidad de los pacientes. En este trabajo, se desarrollaron innovadoras nanopartículas de galato de laurilo cargadas con cerageninas (CGNP), imitadores no peptídicos de péptidos antimicrobianos, con actividad antibacteriana mejorada y estabilidad en un proceso sonoquímico de un solo paso. Luego, los CGNP se depositaron en material de silicona de (3-aminopropil) trietoxisilano activado por plasma y preaminado junto con iones de zwitter antiincrustantes usando ultrasonido de alta intensidad junto con injerto mediado por lacasa para obtener un recubrimiento estable para la inhibición de la formación de biopelículas. El recubrimiento nanohabilitado desarrollado demostró ser eficaz contra los patógenos gramnegativos y grampositivos comunes que se encuentran en las CAUTI. Además, la silicona recubierta se caracterizó mediante espectroscopia FTIR-ATR y ángulo de contacto con el agua. Los resultados demostraron que el recubrimiento generado podría usarse para controlar infe, Medical device (MD)-associated urinary infections are the most common healthcare related infections accounting for increased morbidity and mortality, and huge financial burden on healthcare systems. More than 80 % of such infections are due to biofilm formation, whereas approximately 40% of all nosocomial infections are catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Strategies to reduce CAUTIs occurrence include frequent replacement of the device, which causes considerable discomfort to the patients and increases treatment costs, or aggressive antibiotic therapies with associated side effects such as hypersensitivity, inflammation and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) development. Therefore, innovative solutions for inhibition of bacterial growth and biofilm formation are needed to improve the catheters safety and long-term use, and patients comfort. In this work, innovative lauryl gallate nanoparticles loaded with ceragenins (CGNPs), non-peptide mimics of antimicrobial peptides, with enhanced antibacterial activity and stability were developed in a single-step sonochemical process. CGNPs were then deposited on plasma-activated and preaminated with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane silicone material together with antifouling zwitterions using high-intensity ultrasound coupled with laccase-mediated grafting to obtain stable coating for inhibition of biofilm formation. The developed nano-enabled coating proved to be effective against common Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens found in CAUTIs. Additionally, the coated-silicone was characterized using FTIR-ATR spectroscopy and water contact angle. The results demonstrated that the generated coating could be used to control antibiotic-resistant biofilm-associated bacterial infections.

L’objectiu d’aquest projecte és sintetitzar partícules core-shell formades per magnetita com a core i PEDOT com a per tal d’aprofitar la propietat magnètica d’aquest mineral i la propietat conductora del polímer, i així controlar l’alliberament de medicament. Per dur a terme la síntesis de les nanopartícules de magnetita s’ha utilitzat el mètode de la coprecipitació química. Aquest mètode de síntesi consisteix en mesclar en una dissolució aquosa sals de Fe²⁺ + Fe³⁺ i oxidar-les en presencia d’hidròxid de sodi (NaOH). El PEDOT s’ha sintetitzat a partir de la polimerització d’EDOT utilitzant persulfat d’amoni (APS) com a agent oxidant. També s’afegeix DBSA (dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid) com a dopant per tal de millorar la conductivitat del polímer. Es sintetitzen nanopartícules de magnetita amb recobriment de PEDOT amb 4 relacions de Magnetita-PEDOT diferents (0,25:1 / 0,5:1 / 1:1 / 1,5:1) per tal de seleccionar la més adequada des del punt de vista del transport i l’alliberament de fàrmacs al cos humà. S’han caracteritzat les nanopartícules amb les tècniques de potencial Z, dispersió de llum dinàmica (DLS), espectrofotometria IR, microscòpia electrònica d’escombrat (SEM) i voltamperometria cíclica (CV)., El objetivo de este proyecto es sintetizar partículas core-shell formadas por magnetita como core y PEDOT como para aprovechar la propiedad magnética de este mineral y la propiedad conductora del polímero, y así controlar la liberación de medicamento. Para realizar la síntesis de las nanopartículas de magnetita se ha utilizado el método de la coprecipitación química. Este método de síntesis consiste en mezclar en una disolución acuosa sales de Fe²⁺ + Fe³⁺ y oxidarlas en presencia de hidróxido de sodio (NaOH). El PEDOT se ha sintetizado a partir de la polimerización de EDOT utilizando persulfato de amonio (APS) como agente oxidante. También se añade DBSA (dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid) como dopante para mejorar la conductividad del polímero. Se sintetizan nanopartículas de magnetita con recubrimiento de PEDOT con 4 relaciones de Magnetita-PEDOT diferentes (0,25:1 / 0,5:1 / 1:1 / 1,5:1) para seleccionar la más adecuada desde el punto de vista del transporte y liberación de fármacos en el cuerpo humano. Se han caracterizado las nanopartículas con las técnicas de potencial Z, dispersión de luz dinámica (DLS), espectrofotometría IR, microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM) y voltamperometría cíclica (CV)., The aim of this project is to synthesize core-shell particles formed by magnetite as the core and PEDOT as the shell in order to take advantage of the magnetic property of this mineral and the conductive property of the polymer, and thus control the release of medicine. To carry out the synthesis of magnetite nanoparticles, the method of chemical coprecipitation has been used. This synthesis method consists of mixing Fe²⁺ + Fe³⁺ salts in an aqueous solution and oxidizing them in the presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). PEDOT has been synthesized from the polymerization of EDOT using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an oxidizing agent. DBSA (dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid) is also added as a dopant to improve the conductivity of the polymer. PEDOT-coated magnetite nanoparticles are synthesized with 4 different Magnetite-PEDOT ratios (0.25:1 / 0.5:1 / 1:1 / 1.5:1) in order to select the most suitable one from the point in view of the transport and release of drugs in the human body. The nanoparticles have been characterized with Z-potential, dynamic light scattering (DLS), IR spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) techniques.

This paper aims to create a new model for assessing the ecosystem risk in rivers and wetlands that are linked to accidental spills of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in soil/groundwater. Due to the uncertainty of the modeling inputs, a combination of two well-known risk assessment methodologies (Monte Carlo and fuzzy logic) were used. To test the new model, two hypothetical, accidental AgNP soil spill case studies were evaluated; both of which were located at the end of the Llobregat River basin within the metropolitan area of Barcelona (NE Spain). In both cases, the soil spill reached groundwater. In the first case, it was discharged into a river, and in the second case, it recharged a wetland. Concerning the results, in the first case study, a medium-risk assessment was achieved for most cases (83%), with just 10% of them falling below the future legal threshold concentration value. In the second case study, a high-risk assessment was obtained for most cases (84%), and none of the cases complied with the threshold value. A sensitivity analysis was conducted for the concentration and risk. The developed tool was proven capable of assessing risk in aquatic ecosystems when dealing with uncertain and variable data, which is an improvement compared to other risk assessment methodologies., This research was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities and Agencia Estatal de Investigación/European Regional Development Plan (grant CGL2017-87216-C4-3-R). The authors want to thank the Fundación Carolina and Universidad Tecnológica del Chocó “Diego Luis Cordoba” for the PhD research grant provided to Ramírez., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Cellulose-based composites have aroused increasing interest as potential replacements for fossil fuel-based plastics. In this work, transparent cellulose-grafted-PLA nanocomposite films were prepared by grafting polylactide (PLA) onto cellulose. PLA was synthesized by in situ ring opening polymerization from a regenerated cellulose matrix, using zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (EmimAc) as solvent. A facile route was devised to modify the starting material (cellulose paper) by partial dissolution and regeneration that used an ionic liquid (IL) as a smart nanowelding agent to assemble nanometric cellulose structures. The influence of the proportion of ZnONPs (1–5 wt%) and L-lactide (LA) monomers (10–70 wt%) used on the properties of the resulting nanocomposite films was examined by comparison with an all-cellulose composite (ACC) and pure cellulose paper. Incorporating ZnONPs and PLA was found to enhance the mechanical, barrier and optical properties of the films. The maximum tensile strength and best barrier properties were those of a film obtained from 5%ZnONPs and 70%LA. FTIR spectra confirmed a new form of interaction between PLA and the regenerated cellulose matrix. Also, XRD spectra revealed a transition from cellulose I to II and an increase in the proportion of noncrystalline cellulose through partial dissolution and regeneration. Although the surface morphology of the nanocomposite films was influenced by the presence of ZnONPs and PLA chains, their color and chemical structure were not. The transparent cellulose-grafted-PLA nanocomposite films obtained are highly promising as packaging materials, Open Access funding provided thanks to the CRUE-CSIC agreement with Springer Nature. The authors declare that no funds were received during the preparation of this manuscript, Postprint (published version)

Les infeccions nosocomials ocasionen una elevada mortalitat, prolonguen l’estància hospitalària i augmenten els costos assistencials. Una de les patologies nosocomials respiratòries més severes és la Pneumònia Associada al Ventilador (VAP), la qual és causada principalment per la formació de biofilm bacterià sobre la superfície del dispositiu mèdic associat, el tub endotraqueal. Per aquest motiu i la necessitat d’aplicar mesures preventives, en el present projecte s’han desenvolupat i caracteritzat tres recobriments antibacterians de la superfície de tubs endotraqueals, el quals pretenen inhibir l’adhesió dels microorganismes i la formació del biofilm. En primer lloc s’han sintetitzat pel·lícules dels 3 biomaterials escollits: quitosà amb nanopartícules de plata incorporades, poliacrilamida carregada del mateix tipus de nanopartícules metàl·liques i finalment, poliacrilamida amb nanopartícules d’òxid de zinc integrades. Posteriorment, s’ha assolit un recobriment estable dels biomaterials sobre la superfície del tub endotraqueal i s’han caracteritzat les dimensions de les nanopartícules sintetitzades incorporades en els recobriments, les quals han presentat unes mides òptimes, sense implicar toxicitat i aportant efecte antibacterià. Finalment, ha estat demostrat el comportament bactericida dels 3 biomaterials sintetitzats tant en forma de pel·lícules com a recobriments del dispositiu mèdic. L’activitat antibacteriana ha quedat comprovada respecte els mateixos polímers sense les nanopartícules i respecte el tub endotraqueal sense cap recobriment., Las infecciones nosocomiales ocasionan una elevada mortalidad, prolongan la estancia hospitalaria e incrementan los costes asistenciales. Una de las patologías nosocomiales respiratorias más severas es la Neumonía Asociada al Ventilador (VAP), la cual es causada principalmente por la formación de biofilm bacteriano sobre la superficie del dispositivo médico asociado, el tubo endotraqueal. Por este motivo y con la necesidad de aplicar medidas preventivas, en este proyecto se han desarrollado y caracterizado tres recubrimientos antibacterianos de la superficie de tubos endotraqueales, los cuales pretenden inhibir la adhesión de los microorganismos y la formación del biofilm. En primer lugar, se han sintetizado las películas de los 3 biomateriales escogidos: quitosano con nanopartículas de plata incorporadas, poliacrilamida con el mismo tipo de nanopartículas metálicas y finalmente, poliacrilamida con nanopartículas de óxido de zinc integradas. Posteriormente, se ha logrado un recubrimiento estable de los biomateriales sobre la superficie del tubo endotraqueal y se ha caracterizado el tamaño de las nanopartículas sintetizadas incorporadas en los recubrimientos, las cuales han presentado unas dimensiones óptimas, sin implicar toxicidad y aportando efecto antibacteriano. Finalmente, se ha demostrado el comportamiento bactericida de los 3 biomateriales sintetizados tanto en forma de películas como recubrimientos del dispositivo médico. La actividad antibacteriana ha sido comprobada respecto los mismos polímeros sin las nanopartículas y respecto el tubo endotraqueal sin recubrimiento., Nosocomial infections cause high mortality, prolong hospital stay and increase healthcare costs. One of the most severe respiratory nosocomial pathologies is Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP), which is mainly caused by the formation of bacterial biofilm on the surface of the associated medical device, the endotracheal tube. For this reason and with the need to apply preventive measures, in this project three antibacterial coatings for the surface of endotracheal tubes were prepared and characterized, which goal is to inhibit the adhesion of microorganisms and the formation of biofilm. First of all, films of the 3 chosen biomaterials were synthesized. These were: chitosan with incorporated silver nanoparticles, polyacrylamide with the same type of metallic nanoparticles, and finally, polyacrylamide with integrated zinc oxide nanoparticles. Subsequently, a stable coating of the biomaterials on the surface of the endotracheal tube was achieved and the dimensions of the synthesized nanoparticles incorporated in the coatings were characterized, which they have presented optimal dimensions, without implying toxicity and providing an antibacterial effect. Finally, the bactericidal behavior of the 3 biomaterials synthesized both in the form of films and coatings of the medical device has been proved. The antibacterial activity has been verified with respect to the same polymers without the nanoparticles and with respect to the endotracheal tube without coating.

Lasers can be used as optical tweezers to confine particles in determined regions of space. However, the dynamics and measurements of this setup are affected by stochastic phenomena. Hence, the resulting data should be filtered in order to obtain more accurate results and knowledge of the system. This thesis deals with the implementation and evaluation of parameter estimators and Kalman filtering algorithms on a system of a particle in an optical trap. Theoretical background of both optical tweezers and implemented algorithms is unfold and a physical parameter estimator is also proposed. Algorithms are implemented in Matlab environment and tested out. Results presented in last chapters of this thesis confirm the successful implementation. of identification and Kalman filter algorithms while point out inconsistencies of the proposed physical parameter estimator., Los láseres pueden utilizarse como pinzas ópticas para confinar partículas en regiones determinadas del espacio. Sin embargo, la dinámica y las mediciones de esta configuración se ven afectadas por fenómenos estocásticos. Por lo tanto, los datos resultantes deben filtrarse para obtener resultados más precisos y un mayor conocimiento del sistema. Esta tesis trata sobre la implementación y evaluación de estimadores de parámetros y algoritmos de filtro de Kalman en sistemas de partículas en una trampa óptica. Se presenta el fundamento teórico tanto de las pinzas ópticas como de los algoritmos implementados y se propone un estimador de parámetros físicos. Los algoritmos se implementan en el entorno de Matlab y se prueban. Los resultados presentados en los últimos capítulos de esta tesis confirman la exitosa implementación de los algoritmos de identificación y filtro de Kalman, al tiempo que señalan las inconsistencias del estimador de parámetros físicos propuesto., Els làsers es poden utilitzar com a pinces òptiques per atrapar partícules en regions determinades de l'espai. No obstant això, la dinàmica i les mesures d'aquesta configuració es veuen afectades per fenòmens estocàstics. Per tant, les dades resultants han de ser filtrades per obtenir resultats més precisos i un coneixement més profund del sistema. Aquesta tesi tracta sobre la implementació i avaluació d'estimadors de paràmetres i algoritmes de filtre de Kalman en sistemes de partícules en una trampa òptica. Es presenta el fonament teòric tant de les pinces òptiques com dels algoritmes implementats i es proposa un estimador de paràmetres físics. Els algoritmes s'implementen en l'entorn de Matlab i es sotmeten a proves. Els resultats presentats en els últims capítols d'aquesta tesi confirmen l'exitosa implementació dels algoritmes d'identificació i filtre de Kalman, tot i que assenyalen les inconsistències de l'estimador de paràmetres físics proposat.