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Nickel ferrite NiFe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized through sol-gel auto combustion method using dextrose as a fuel. The prepared nanoparticles were investigated for their structural, optical and magnetic characterization. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the development of single-phase cubic spinel with crystallite size of 14 nm. The optical study showed that the compound has an optical band gap 2.26 eV. The magnetic properties were investigated through M-H hysteresis curve. The photocatalytic activity of nickel ferrite was studied based on the degradation of methylene blue (MB) as a model compound, where the results showed that prepared nanoparticles possess a good photocatalytic activity.

In the present scenario, ferrites are widely used for humidity sensor applications. Aiming this, we have prepared Dy3+-doped Mn–Zn ferrites by solution combustion method combining urea and glucose as burning agent. And obtained powder was characterized by several physicochemical techniques. The phase purity was confirmed by using the techniques such as X-ray powder diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. FTIR spectra show 2 prominent absorption bands under 1000 cm−1 which confirms the formation of spinel ferrite. The dielectric studies with change in frequency exhibited remarkable changes with Dy3+ content in samples. All electrical responses were investigated as a function of frequency and Dy3+ content at room temperature. The dielectric constant and loss on the frequency of the alternating applied electric field is consistent with Maxwell–Wagner style interfacial polarization. Further Humidity sensing response were recorded for pellet samples. It is noteworthy that, as the composition of the Dysprosium (Dy3+) increases the resistance is enhanced and is maximum for the Mn0.5Zn0.5Dy0.03Fe2−0.03O4 composite. Hence our results are good enough for sensor applications.

We report an aptasensing platform for the detection of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) in the immediate and early phases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). High-flow filter paper was used to fabricate a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μ-PAD), which was further modified with gold-decorated polystyrene microparticles functionalized with a highly specific cTnT aptamer. Herein, cTnT detection is presented in two linear ranges (0.01-0.8 μg/ml and 6.25-50 μg/ml) with an LoD of 3.9X10

This work reports, thermal, structural, magnetic, electric, and dielectric investigations of the CoFe2-xAlxO4 nanocrystals synthesized through eco-friendly green sol–gel auto-ignition route. X-ray diffractograms exposed the uni-phasic geometry with Fd3m_ $${\text{O}}_{{\text{h}}}^{7}$$ space group. The standard crystallite sizes were found in between 24 and 44 nm, confirming the nano-crystalline dimension. FTIR analysis confirmed the two specific vibrational stretching bands corresponding to the spinel ferrite geometry. The surface topology of ferrite nanocrystals with size distribution was effectively observed from TEM micrographs. The magnetic study at room temperature showed lessening in saturation magnetization with rise in Al3+ concentrations, ascribed to the replacement of Fe3+ ions by paramagnetic Al3+ ions. The M–H loops showed the perfect loop of typical soft ferromagnetic behavior of the produced nano-ferrites. The saturation magnetization, coercivity, and magneto-crystalline anisotropy declines with the upsurge in Al3+ ions which is owing to the non-magnetic contamination in the magnetic matrix. The DC-electrical resistivity was enhanced with growing temperature along with Al3+ content x. The dielectric parameters boosted pointedly with Al3+ substitution and decline exponentially with a rise in frequency in compliance with ‘Koops’ phenomenological theory. All the outcomes show that Al3+ substitution influences the physical characteristics of cobalt ferrite nanocrystals which shows its suitability in various technological applications. The graphical abstract presenting the synthesis reaction, TEM micrograph (along with crystallite size distribution) and M–H plots for CoFe2-xAlxO4 nanocrystals.

In the vision of hyperthermia application, high quality superparamagnetic MnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via low cost and environment-friendly co-precipitation method. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis studies confirmed the ferritization temperature at 900 °C. The formation of crystals with a single-phase cubic spinel structure with the Fd3m space group has been confirmed by XRD analysis. SEM-EDX result reveals that the spherical nature of grains with some agglomeration and elemental analysis helps to calculate the atomic percentage of each detected element. An average particle size (∼25 nm) was determined by TEM analysis. VSM analysis shows that saturation magnetization (Ms) increases with decreasing temperature in the range 54.18–59.67emu/g at room temperature (300K) to low temperature (5K), respectively, which displays temperature change affects the saturation magnetization and coercivity. FC-ZFC measurements indicated a blocking temperature of NPs around 97.17K. The induction heating study was performed on MnFe2O4 magnetic NPs at 4 kA/m AC magnetic field amplitude and 280 kHz frequency for application in magnetic hyperthermia. The result demonstrates that the heating ability of MnFe2O4 magnetic NPs can be achieved hyperthermia temperature (42 °C) at small content of 0.4 g/mL within 260sec-time duration, which confirms that the prepared material can be used as a heating agent in magnetic hyperthermic treatment. The specific absorption rate (SAR) was found at 217.62 W/g, the obtained result is superior to the previous reports. The obtained results show that the newly synthesized superparamagnetic NPs can act as a promising candidate for hyperthermia therapy due to its high heat-generating capability at lower concentrations with less time period.

Oleic acid-coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized using the chemical co-precipitation route and characterized by standard techniques for structure, morphology, and magnetic properties analysis. The Rietveld refined X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles indicated the formation of a cubic-spinel single-phase structure with the Fd3m space group. The average crystallite size (∼12 nm) confirmed the nanocrystalline appearance of the prepared CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed the spherical nature of both (CoFe2O4) and (OA-CoFe2O4) samples. The absorption bands in the Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum at ∼3418, 3026, 1628, 1404, 1068, 845, 544, and 363 cm-1 affirmed the spinel ferrite formation and OA attachment. The M-H curve recorded at room temperature showed the superparamagnetic nature of the CoFe2O4 nanoparticles with moderate saturation magnetization (∼78 emu/gm). The blocking temperature of the prepared CoFe2O4 nanoparticles obtained from the field-cooled and zero-field-cooled (FC-ZFC) curve was estimated to be 144 K. Further, the characterized surface-modified CoFe2O4 was then added in ethylene glycol/water with various concentrations and characterized by the induction heating technique for the evaluation of their self-heating characteristics. A series of temperature versus time measurements were made by varying the ethylene glycol/water proportion for better understanding of the self-heating characteristics of the prepared CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. All of the findings display the applicability of the surface-modified CoFe2O4 nanoparticles in magnetic fluid hyperthermia toward noninvasive cancer treatment and other bio-applications.

Dy3+ incorporated yttrium iron garnet (Y3-xDyxFe5O12) nanoparticles were fabricated via self-combustion assisted solution gelation route. The mono-phase formation and nanocrystalline nature of the fabricated samples were confirmed through X-ray employed diffraction studies. It demonstrates mono phasic garnet-cubic-spinel lattice formation along with an average particle size varying between 6 and 9 nm. The lattice constant determined via XRD analysis is found within the scope of 12.356 A to 12.424 A. The morphological aspects were visualized by the SEM analysis which uncovered the spherical shaped nature of grains with the size in nanometer range. The compositional verification was undertaken with the help of EDAX analysis which ensured the presence of elements in desired proportions. The magnetic parameters were diminished with Dy3+ content x while the magneton number nB increased with increasing Dy3+ content x. The electrical properties were measured using ‘two probe technique’ with varying temperature. The electrical resistivity diminishes with increment in temperature demonstrating semiconducting conduct. Values of various dielectric parameters show strong frequency dependence. With the increase in frequency, the dielectric parameters get decreases within the scope of 104 Hz–106 Hz. The magnetic, electrical and dielectric conduct of these prepared nanoparticles show its relevance in high frequency device development applications.

The present study compiles with the physicochemical, magnetic, and photocatalytic evaluation of the mixed spinel Ni–Zn nanoferrites prepared by the auto-combustion sol–gel route. All the samples were characterized by XRD for the recognition of phase-pure cubic spinel structure. Spectral studies that were carried out by FT-IR clearly show two absorptions band revealing the characteristics of ferrite skeleton. The morphology of the prepared nanoparticles was visualized by SEM and TEM microscopy technique. BET analysis showed the enhancement in surface parameters. Hydrodynamic diameter and dispersion studies were evaluated by DLS and Zeta potential measurements. The DC resistivity measured by two-probe technique shows the semiconductor behavior for all the samples. M–H hysteresis loop of all the samples exhibited the superparamagnetic behavior. The energy bandgap values obtained by the UV–Vis spectroscopy technique show the increasing trend from 1.82 to 2.07 eV with increase in Ni2+ content. The photocatalytic activity of Rhodamine B was evaluated under sunlight irradiation. With increasing Ni2+ concentration, the degradation efficiency increased to 98%. Further, the present nanocatalyst shows active reusability and can be easily separable due to its magnetic nature. The obtained results show the enhanced photocatalytic of the Ni–Zn nanoferrites under the visible light in contrast with the available literature reports.

The enduring outbreak of the corona virus disease (COVID-19) originated from China illustrates global concerns owing to their infective nature and time-consuming incubation. Even though diagnostic tools based on RT-PCR are being extensively employed at present, well-timed and precise diagnostics are still restricted because of the long-period and exhaustive man-power requirement. To tackle this problem, we herewith report the fabrication of the surface functionalised magnetic nanoparticles (MNP’s) and viral RNA-extraction protocol for potential detection of COVID-19. The zinc ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by combustion synthesis and its surface was functionalised by silica and carboxyl-modified polyvinyl alcohol. The MNP’s were characterized to confirm the nano-scale appearance and functionalization. The proposed model may provide the ability to extract the viral RNA from several specimens through automation process. In light of ease and proficiency, this protocol may significantly lessen the operation period and necessities for the present molecular-level diagnostic of COVID-19.

Nano-spinel zinc ferrites (ZnFe2O4) with substitution of diamagnetic magnesium (Mg2+) ions were synthesized using solution-gelation (sol-gel) self ignition route. The thermal, structural, spectral, optical and N2-physisorption properties of the prepared Zn–Mg ferrite nanoparticles were analyzed by standard characterization techniques. The temperature dependent spinel phase formation and percentage weight loss was studied by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The analysis of the room temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed the formation of cubic spinel structure with single phase in the Zn–Mg ferrites. The crystallite size decreasing from 27 nm to 20 nm with Mg2+ substitution confirmed the nanocrystalline formation of the Zn–Mg ferrites. The two characteristics vibrational modes of interstitial sub-lattice sites corresponding to the spinel structure were observed within the desired wavelength range of the FT-IR spectra. The optical band gap values estimated from the UV–Visible data analysis is found to be in the scope of 1.96 eV–2.39 eV. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed the broader emission band in the visible region (around 525 nm) for all the samples of Zn–Mg ferrites. The BET isotherms were recorded by the N2 adsorption-desorption and the surface area, pore volume, average pore radius etc surface parameters were deduced. The BET surface area and average pore radius values were obtained in the range of 5.6–24.8 m2/gm and 2.61–4.52 nm respectively.

Nanoscale spinel zinc ferrite (ZNF) was prepared by sol-gel auto-ignition route and subsequently its surface was modified by oleic-acid (OA) coating. The pristine and surface modified ZNF nanoparticles (UC-ZNF and OA-ZNF) were characterized by standard techniques. XRD patterns of both the samples ensured the nanocrystalline mono-phasic cubic-spinel lattice structure with ‘Fd-3m space-group’. FT-IR spectra revealed the presence of vibrational frequency-modes of spinel structure and successful coating of OA over ZNF. The nano-size spherical grains with some agglomeration and OA coating over ZNF were visualized in FE-SEM images. The hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic surface-transition of ZNF was confirmed by water contact-angle measurements. The BET surface-area and distribution of pore-radius was evaluated by recording N2-isotherms. The M − H plots confirmed the superparamagnetic nature of both the samples. Optical properties were studied by UV–Vis and PL spectroscopy techniques. The colloidal-stability and distribution of particle-sizes were estimated by zeta-potential and DLS measurements. Magnetic hyperthermia studies were carried out for different concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 mg/mL) of both the samples. The biocompatible nature of both the samples was studied by cell-viability studies. All these results ensure the implementation of OA-ZNF nanoparticles with minimum dose rate (8 mg/mL) in magnetic hyperthermia therapies for cancer treatment.

This study reports cation distribution, magnetic, and hyperfine interaction studies of Cu2+-substituted mixed Ni–Zn nano-spinel ferrites prepared by combustion technique. X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy were used to study the structural and morphological aspects of all the samples. Rietveld refined diffraction patterns exhibited a cubic-spinel lattice structure with the Fd3m space group for all the samples. Morphological investigations revealed the spherical morphology of particles with some agglomeration. The magnetic properties investigated at 300 K and 5 K implied a soft ferromagnetic character of all the samples. The magnetization at 5 K progressively enhanced due to surface effects. Field-cooled and zero-field-cooled measurements indicated net irreversibility for all the samples. Hyperfine interaction studies revealed the ferrimagnetic nature of Cu2+-substituted mixed Ni–Zn spinel nano-ferrites. All the obtained results show that the prepared nanoparticles are useful for magnetic fluid hyperthermia and other bio-applications.

In this study, we mainly investigated the effects of trivalent Cr ion substitution on the properties of nickel ferrite (NCF) spinel-thin films. The as-prepared spinel thin films were characterized by thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA) to comprehensively examine their phase transition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the prepared films have a single-phase face-centered cubic crystal structure. A Raman study confirmed the arrangement of the inverse-cubic spinel structure of these spinel-thin films. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images verified the slight agglomeration of particles. Similarly, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images together with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns supported the XRD results. PL spectra showed enhanced near band emission (NBE) intensity due to the passivation of oxygen vacancies by Cr3+ substitution. The DC electrical resistivity (ρ) increases from 1.4 × 10−6 Ω cm to 4.42 × 10−6 Ω cm at room temperature. Dielectric parameters were studied as a function of frequency in the range of 1–10 MHz at 300 K, and these parameters decreased with the increasing Cr3+ ion concentration in the spinel-thin films. The obtained results indicate the applicability of the fabricated thin films in high-frequency electronic devices.

The silica aerogel was synthesized by simple and cost-effective sol-gel process under ambient pressure drying. The wet gel was modified by using trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) as silylating agent. The prepared aerogel was characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyzer (TG-DTA), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analyzer, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometer for structural, thermal, functional, surface, morphological and optical properties. The presence of hump in X-ray diffraction pattern revealed the amorphous nature of prepared silica aerogel. Thermal stability of silica aerogel investigated by TG-DTA show a hydrophobic nature up to 478 °C. FE-SEM images confirmed the porous nature of silica aerogel. The surface area and pore radius measured by BET analyzer disclosed as 792.308 m2/g and 5.779 nm respectively while the total pore volume is 2.289 cc/g. Superhydrophobic nature of silica aerogel sample was affirmed by contact angle measurements. The energy band gap calculated from UV–Vis spectra was found to be 4.25 eV confirming the insulating nature of prepared silica aerogel. The resulting silica aerogel possesses high thermal stability, Superhydrophobicity and large specific surface area which can be useful in various applications such as catalysis, coating materials, oil spill cleanup processes and insulating materials.

Recent clinical cohort studies have highlighted that there is a three-fold greater SARS-Cov-2 infection risk in cancer patients, and overall mortality in individuals with tumours is increased by 41% with respect to general COVID-19 patients. Thus, access to therapeutics and intensive care is compromised for people with both diseases (comorbidity) and there is risk of delayed access to diagnosis. This comorbidity has resulted in extensive burden on the treatment of patients and health care system across the globe; moreover, mortality of hospitalized patients with comorbidity is reported to be 30% higher than for individuals affected by either disease. In this data-driven review, we aim specifically to address drug discoveries and clinical data of cancer management during the COVID-19 pandemic. The review will extensively address the treatment of COVID-19/cancer comorbidity; treatment protocols and new drug discoveries, including the description of drugs currently available in clinical settings; demographic features; and COVID-19 outcomes in cancer patients worldwide.

Zn2+-substituted cobalt ferrites (Co-ferrite) having the chemical formula Co1−xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.5 and 1.0) were fabricated by a co-precipitated wet chemical route. The analysis of weight loss percentage with spinel phase development and evaluation of sintering temperature of prepared samples were studied by applying the TG–DTA technique. Structurally refined XRD patterns of the prepared samples revealed the phase purity and cubic spinel structure with the Fd-3m space group. The fractional atomic positions and Rietveld refinement factors were estimated from Rietveld refined XRD pattern, and also, other variations of structural parameters with zinc substitution have been calculated from XRD data. Both the Rietveld refinement and W–H method were employed to calculate the crystallite size, and both of them presented the same calculated result. The variation in the shape of particles and average particle size with Zn2+ substitution in Co-ferrite was evaluated from the FE-SEM technique. The formation of cubic spinel structure and change in the modes of vibrations with respect to Zn concentration in Co-ferrite of all samples were observed from the best peak-fitted Raman spectra. All the magnetic properties decreased with increasing concentration of zinc investigated from M–H loops which were obtained with the application of the VSM technique. ZFC–FC curve reveals that the blocking temperature of Co-ferrite samples decreases with increasing Zn concentration. It is possible to modulate or adjust the magnetic properties of Co-ferrite nanoparticles by Zn2+ doping as a favorable material for biomedical applications such as drug delivery, magnetic hyperthermia and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Nanomaterials have outstanding applications in biomedical areas, such as drug delivery agents, nanoparticles-based imaging, magnetic fluid hyperthermia, and tissue regeneration. In the line of extensive development in nanomaterials-aided drug delivery platforms, pharmacokinetic assessments have achieved greater consideration from scientists and pharmacists as a fundamental component of the study of these nanosystems. Pharmacokinetics is nothing but the study of liberation, absorption, distribution, metabolization, and excretion (i.e., LADME) of the particular drug at the molecule scale, which provides significant information about drug response and associated side effects. The utilization of nano platforms in the delivery of drugs explores new possibilities to deliver drugs in the form of particulates, which specifically alters the LADME profile. The proper information of the pharmacokinetics aspects associated with the LADME plays a vital role in designing appropriate nanomaterials-based drug delivery systems for final clinical assessments. The pharmacokinetics of the nanomaterials is primarily dependent on the adsorption of proteins, which is consecutively decided by the physicochemical properties of the nanomaterials. Thus, more insights into the interrelation between the physicochemical properties of nanomaterials and their interface with body is required to recognize and envisage thein vivoresponse of the nanomaterials. In this chapter, we highlight some of the recent insights of the pharmacokinetic investigations of nanomaterials. We also provide the correlation between the physicochemical properties of the nanoscale materials and their biological behavior.

Magnetic nanofluids (commonly known as ferrofluids) have captured the great attention of the researchers due to their various kinds of applications such as heat transfer, hyperthermia treatments, targeted drug delivery etc. The present experimental investigations deal with the thermoacoustic behaviour of the water based nanofluids of nickel ferrites. The magnetic nickel ferrite nanoparticles were produced by the simple and inexpensive chemical co-precipitation route. The prepared nanoparticles were exposed to different characterization tools for structural, morphological, compositional and magnetic properties analysis. X-ray diffraction analysis with Rietveld refinement confirmed the single phasic nature with nanometric crystallite size of the prepared nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscope images revealed the spherical and nanocrystalline morphology of the prepared nanoparticles. The M-H plot recorded at room temperature revealed the superparamagnetic nature of the nanoparticles. Further, the co-precipitated nickel ferrite nanoparticles with different concentrations were utilized for the preparation of the water based magnetic nanofluids. Colloidal stability of the prepared nanofluids was analyzed by UV–Vis spectroscopy technique and it revealed the stability over 11 days without separation in phase. The temperature dependent thermoacoustic properties of the prepared nanofluids were analyzed through Ultrasonic Interferometer. The interaction between particle–particle and particle–fluid are explained on the basis of thermo-acoustic parameters.

In this study, we mainly investigated the effects of trivalent Cr ion substitution on the properties of nickel ferrite (NCF) spinel-thin films. The as-prepared spinel thin films were characterized by thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA) to comprehensively examine their phase transition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the prepared films have a single-phase face-centered cubic crystal structure. A Raman study confirmed the arrangement of the inverse-cubic spinel structure of these spinel-thin films. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images verified the slight agglomeration of particles. Similarly, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images together with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns supported the XRD results. PL spectra showed enhanced near band emission (NBE) intensity due to the passivation of oxygen vacancies by Cr

This work demonstrates the synthesis of hydrophobic silica aerogels from silicic acid with pH variations by using a cost-effective and safe ambient pressure drying process. The work aims to evaluate the effect of pH variation on physicochemical properties of silica aerogels by standard techniques. In the present investigation, we have selected hexane as the solvent and trimethylchlorosilane/hexane was used to perform the surface modification of wet gel in order to elude the contraction and disintegration of gel association subsequent to a drying process. The effect pH on gelation in the form hydrolysis and condensation as well as on amorphous structure, physical properties such as density, thermal stability, surface area, pore-volume, pore radius, optical transmittance were investigated. FTIR spectroscopy was used to confirm the silylation (surface modification) of the prepared silica aerogel samples. Water contact angles were measured to verify the hydrphobic behaviour of all the samples. Among the prepared pH varied samples, the sample having pH ~ 5 shows better results such as high optical transmittance, thermal stability, hydrophobicity and high surface area.

Nanoparticles with different zinc concentrations in magnesium ferrite were prepared by chemical co- precipitation technique as a potential candidate for magnetic hyperthermia. Synthesized material was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) for structural and magnetic properties respectively. The XRD study revealed phase identification, crystal structure, and average crystallite size of the prepared sample. It confirms cubic spinel structure of Fd3m space group and average crystallite size decreases from 18 nm to 12 nm with increasing the doping concentration of zinc. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis were indicated the superparamagnetic behavior of prepared material with substitution of zinc in manganese ferrite nanoparticles at room temperature. Induction heating system was used to carry out the magnetic hyperthermia study. The induction heating results shows a small amount (2 mg/mL) of nanoparticles can able to achieve temperature of 42°C for 267s and 563s respectively at 4.0 kA/m.

This work focused on the impact of synthesis routes on the structural, microstructural, magnetic, electrical and dielectric characteristics of Mg1−x Zn x Fe2O4 (x = 0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00) nanocrystals manufactured via the ceramic and green approach sol–gel route. The powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals that the entire synthesized ferrite solids crystallize in single phase spinel structure. The XRD outcomes highlight the impact of the synthesis routes and Zn2+ replacement on the morphology, crystallite size and structural parameters of magnesium nano-ferrites. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images illustrate that the process of synthesis causes extensive lessening of grain and crystallite sizes. The magnetic study reveals that the magnetic properties of magnesium ferrite can be tuned by zinc substitution. The saturation magnetization (Ms), retentivity (Mr), coercive force (Hc) and magneton number diminutions meaningfully with the replacement of diamagnetic Zn2+ ions in Mg-ferrite for both the synthesized systems. The deterioration of magnetic parameters with Zn2+ substitution can be clarified on the base of the random spin canting model. Likewise, the magnetic parameters, enhanced meaningfully for sol-gel derived samples this can be attributed due to decline of crystallite size effect. The DC electric resistivity displays NTCR behaviour like ideal semiconducting materials for all the produced samples. The DC resistivity values of sol-gel produced samples were found to be little bit higher than that of ceramic derived samples. The experimental dielectric constant as a function of frequency behaviour can be elucidated with the support of the heterogeneous model of the polycrystalline structure of ferrites. The dielectric constant and loss tangent decreases with Zn2+ content for both the systems. The dielectric constant enhances for sol-gel derived samples; however, lower values of loss tangent were found. The obtained outcomes can be suitable for multifunctional applications in electronics devices and biomedical field.

Abstract In the present study, Barium Titanate (BaTiO3) nanoparticles were synthesized using one of the best route chemical method that is sol-gel auto combustion method. The structural and dielectric properties were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), LCR meter and the results are reported herein. The phase purity and structural determination was carried by XRD technique at room temperature. The analysis of XRD patterns revealed of formation of single phase tetragonal structure. The lattice parameters ‘a’ and ‘c’ were obtained using XRD data and obtained lattice parameters matches with reported value. Average crystallite size was determined using Debye–Scherrer’s formula and is found to be 6.4 Å indicating nanocrystalline nature. Dielectric properties like dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent was investigated using LCR-Q meter method at varying frequencies. Both dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent decreases with increasing frequencies. The PE characteristics and other studies are in progress.

NANOMAT-2020, the International Web Conference on Advanced Material Science and Nanotechnology, took place during 20-21 June, 2020 on virtual platforms (Zoom app and YouTube). The conference was organized by Department of Physics, Vinayak Vidnyan Mahavidyalaya, Nandgaon Khandeshwar, Amravati, with aims of bring together as family all leading Scientists, Academicians, Educationist, Young Scientist, Research Scholars and students to present, discuss and exchange their experiences, Innovation ideas and recent development in the field of Material Science and Nanotechnology. Taking into account the COVID-19 pandemic, the NANOMAT-2020 conference was held virtually as agencies around the world are now issuing restrictions on travel, gatherings, and meetings in an effort to limit and slow the spread of this pandemic. The health and safety of our participants and members of our research community is of top priority to the Organizing Committee. Therefore, the NANOMAT-2020 conference was held online through Zoom software and YouTube channel. More than 200 participants attended the conference, they were from Japan, Nepal, South Korea, India and more. The scientific program of this conference included many topics related to Material Science and Nanotechnology as well as those in related fields. NANOMAT 2020 proceedings create an adequate discussion space for trendy topics on Fundamentals of Materials Science, Electronic & Magnetic materials, Materials for Energy Applications, Nanotechnology in Materials Science, Materials for Green Technology, Catalytic Materials & Materials Chemistry, Polymeric Materials, Nano Electronics & Sensor Technology, Nano Biotechnology, Nanocomposites, Nanotechnology in pharmaceuticals etc. In this conference, two distinguished plenary speakers and five keynote speakers had delivered their research works in area of Material Science and Nanotechnology. There were 35 oral and 30 poster presentations by participants which brought opportunity to share their recent research works knowledge among each other. This volume or edition of IOP consists of selected papers after the peer review process. Papers presented on various topics related to Material Science and Nanotechnology are combined and presented in this volume. We are sure that this intellectual resource will pave way for many new research innovations and collaborations in future. The technical program committee chair and team did an excellent job in ensuring acceptance of quality works as part of the conference. Efforts taken by peer reviewer contributed to improve the quality of papers provided are gratefully appreciated. We are very grateful to the International and National Advisory Committee, Session Chairs, and Administrative Assistants from Vidnyan Vinayak Mahavidyalaya who contributed to the success of this conference. Also, we are thankful to the authors who submitted the papers, it was quality of their presentations and communication with the other participants that really made this web conference fruitful. Last but not the least, we are thankful to the IOP Science for their support, it was not only the support but also an inspiration for organizers. We hope this conference can be held every year to make it an ideal platform for people to share views and experiences in Material Science and Nanotechnology and related areas. We are expecting you and more experts and scholars around the globe to join this international event next year.

In the present work, Zn-ferrite nanoparticles have been synthesized by chemical co-precipitation method. Prepared samples were characterized by XRD and FTIR to study its structural and chemical properties. The formation of single phase with Fd-3m space group of Zn- ferrite was revealed by XRD and also studied the effect of synthesis techniques on structural parameters. Crystallite size of ZnFe2O4 was found to be 26.11 nm. The FTIR spectra showed two expected bands in the range 550-560 cm1 (i.e. U1) and 400 -410 cm1 (i.e. u2) which confirms the formation of ferrite phase.

Stable magnetic nanofluids of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical co-precipitation method. The structural, morphological and magnetic properties were characterized by the X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) respectively. The XRD study revealed the spinel structure of the prepared cobalt ferrite nanoparticles with Fd-3m space group. Prepared nanoparticles were found to be spherical in nature with average particles size of 10 nm. The prepared cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were exhibit near superparamagnetic behavior. These superparamagnetic cobalt ferrite nanoparticles used for the preparation of the magnetic nanofluids in ethylene glycol with various volume fraction concentrations viz. 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1%. The thermal conductivity of the ethylene glycol was significantly enhanced by dispersing the cobalt ferrite nanoparticles. The thermal conductivity of the prepared cobalt ferrite / ethylene glycol (COEG) magnetic nanofluid were also responded to the magnetic field intensity and shows increasing trend with increasing magnetic field intensity.

A facile and cost-effective preparation of nanoscale TiO2 with enhanced surface area was achieved through gel-combustion technique assisted via glycine as a fuel. X-ray diffraction studies confirmed the anatase phase and nanocrystalline formation of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). Using N2 adsorption-desorption curve, the enhanced surface area (54.3m2g−1) of TiO2 NPs was noted. Visible light driven photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 NPs for the degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) dye was studied. The complete degradation of MB dye under sunlight irradiation was achieved in 120min. All the outcomes show that prepared TiO2 nanoparticles have excellent visible light driven photocatalytic activity for the active degradation of MB dye.

As the world is at present confronting tremendous issues concerning the atmosphere, energy, and the environment, catalysis innovations have all the earmarks of being getting critical to energy, synthesis process, and environmental areas. In the recent years, transformation of the research on catalytic activities and advanced catalyst was seen with the advancement of nanotechnology. Undoubtedly, the utilization of nanomaterials in catalysis and, all the more especially, inorganic nanoparticles has pulled in many research attempts over the globe to create imaginative and greener conventions. These nanoparticles can be used as the catalyst or as mediator and can encourage the reactant procedure in new medium such as, water. Besides, attributable to their little size and expanded surface area, nano-catalysts have obviously risen as offering an interesting candidate at the interface among homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, taking into consideration an expanded response rate. Furthermore, nanoparticles give extra reactant functionalities because of their interesting inherent properties (e.g., nanomagnetism, photocatalytic activity). Along these lines, in this pursuit for eco-friendly and more affordable catalyst, nano-catalysis is turning into a significant field in science, which is applied broadly in the academics and industrial areas. This brief review principally centered around portraying the major comprehension of nano-catalysis, how remarkable catalytic property and other explicit properties of nanomaterials rely upon its size and structure at the nano level.

In the present investigation, nano crystalline Sr0.5Ba0.5Ti1-xFexO3 (x = 0.00, 0.15, 0.20) nanoparticles (BST) were synthesized by sol-gel auto combustion method. The effect of iron (Fe) doping on the structural, electric and dielectric and optical properties examined by the X-Ray diffraction (XRD), two probe and UV-vis techniques. XRD analysis shows that prepared samples are in a single phase with the tetragonal structure at room temperature. Structural parameters like average crystallite size (D) and lattice constant (a and c) were calculated from the XRD data. The surface morphology of the samples was studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) technique. It was found that the nanoparticles are cubic in shape for parent BST nanoparticle whereas Fe doped shows tetragonal shape. Energy dispersive spectrum (EDS) reveals that compositional elements are in stoichiometry proportion. The DC electrical resistivity measurements of the prepared samples were carried out in the temperature range of 300-850 K using a standard two-probe method. The electrical resistivity (ρ) decreases with temperature and Fe concentration. The frequency dependence of dielectric parameters such as dielectric constant (□) and loss tangent (tan □) was measured at room temperature in the frequency range of 30Hz to 1MHz. The dielectric parameters show strong compositional as well as frequency dependence. The higher values of dielectric parameters were found at lower frequencies. UV-visible absorption spectra showed that absorption edge shifted to higher wavelength with increasing Fe concentration while corresponding energy band gap of the prepared nanoceramics decreases with increasing Fe concentration.

“Educate, Inspire, Connect” is the motto of yearly Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings which completely replicates what this gathering is all about. Since 1951, Nobel laureates have assembled in the pleasant town of Lindau, Germany, to discuss the progression of science. Beginning in 1953, the gatherings integrated young scientist from all over the world to ingrain in them enthusiasm and acquaintance on science, while likewise giving an environment for fruitful collaborations. From June 30 to July 5, 2019, around 580 young scientist representing 89 nations accumulated in this small town on the shores of Lake Constance to directly interact with 41 Nobel prize winners. In light of this year’s theme dedicated to Physics, it was an incredible benefit to go to this gathering as a young materials scientist. In spite of the fact that it was an overall gathering of physicist, a considerable insights into current advancement and development in materials science was offered by the many Nobel laureates. My objective in this article is to share these experiences and to increase awareness of this interesting and unique scientific meeting.

In this concise survey, we have introduced overview and features on biomedical utilizations of a class of metal nanoparticles including magnetic nanoparticles. Their most significant related materials are additionally examined for biomedical applications for treating different cancer like diseases. At present, physicochemical techniques have been demonstrated fruitful to orchestrate, shape, control, and produce metal and oxide based homogeneous frameworks, e.g., nano and micro scale particles. In this way, we have principally centred around useful magnetic nanoparticles for nano-medication as a result of their high bio-flexibility to the organs inside human body. Here, bio-conjugation procedures are extremely urgent to interface nanoparticles with customary medications, nano-drugs, bio-particles or polymers for biomedical applications. Bio-functionalization of tailored nanoparticles for biomedicine is demonstrated separate to in vitro and in vivo investigation conventions that commonly incorporate medication conveyance, hyperthermia treatment, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The last can be particularly applied utilizing magnetic nanoparticles, for example, spinel ferrite oxide nanoparticles for diagnostic and treatment of malignancies. Significantly, nano scale-frameworks or micro scale-frameworks or half breed micro-nano scale frameworks are shortly brought into nano-medication.

The work reports, enhancement in colloidal stability and hyperthermia efficiency of nano-spinel magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4) by hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic surface transformation via oleic acid (OA) coating. The nano-spinel structured MgFe2O4 was prepared by the auto-combustion assisted sol-gel route and consequently, its surface was coated by OA. The uncoated and coated MgFe2O4 were portrayed by various physicochemical characterizations. The XRD analysis assured the unchanged single phasic cubic spinel structure and nanocrystalline nature of both the samples. FT-IR spectral analysis indicated the spinel belonging two vibrational stretching modes and OA attachment over the MgFe2O4 core. FE-SEM images revealed the nano-metric spherical type grain-morphology and visualization of OA coating. The drastic diminishment in contact angle values signifies hydrophobic to hydrophilic surface transition. M − H plots revealed the superparamagnetic appearance of uncoated and coated samples. Physisorption analysis showed the elevated surface area and pore size values. Zeta potential and DLS study displayed the enhancement in fluidic dispersion and hydro-dynamic size. The nano-particle concentration (2–10 mg/mL) dependent hyperthermia analysis was carried out for both the samples. Cell viability studies confirmed the improvement in the bio-friendly nature of MgFe2O4 via OA coating. All the outcomes show the superiority of the surface transformed MgFe2O4 nanoparticles in nano-magnetic hyperthermia treatments.

In the present work, investigations of structural, magnetic and induction heating properties of surface functionalized zinc ferrite nanoparticles were carried out successfully. The zinc ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation route and further functionalized with oleic acid. The room temperature X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the typical cubic spinel structure of the prepared nanoparticles. The average crystallite size calculated from Scherrer’s formula was found to be 12.30 nm confirming the nanocrystalline nature of zinc ferrite nanoparticles. The characteristic peaks observed in FT-IR spectrum confirmed the formation of cubic spinel structure and oleic acid coating over zinc ferrite nanoparticles. The room temperature magnetization behaviour revealed the superparamagnetic nature of the prepared nanoparticles. The induction heating behaviour shows a desirable amount (6 mg/mL) of zinc ferrite nanoparticles can able to achieve 42°C temperature for 600 s at 4.0 kA/m. This indicates that the resulting zinc ferrite nanoparticles are promising materials in magnetic hyperthermia treatments.

Ni1-xCdxFe2O4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0 in step of 2) spinel ferrite thin films have been synthesized by spray deposition technique. The prepared films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, UV–vis spectroscopy, Photoluminescence and contact angle measurement studies. The analysis of XRD pattern reveals broad peaks exhibiting a single phase cubic spinel structure. The crystallite size obtained from Scherrer’s formula varies between 8−24 nm confirming the nanocrystalline nature. Metal cation active vibration modes, metal oxygen stretching and bending vibrations were confirmed through the Raman analysis. The FE-SEM shows that the formation of spherical agglomeration and grain size are found to be in the range of 19–38 nm. The elemental compositions of the prepared thin films were studied by EDS. The energy band gap decreases from 1.86 to 2.11 eV with increase in Cd2+ content x calculated by using UV–vis data. The Photoluminescence study showed the characteristic near-band-edge emission of presently investigated films samples at around 710 nm. All films are hydrophilic in nature conformed by contact angle measurement.

Here, we report the influence of nonmagnetic Al3+ and magnetic Cr3+ co-substitution on the structural, morphological, magnetic and Mossbauer properties of nickel ferrite nanoparticles synthesized via sol-gel auto combustion route. Citric acid was used as a fuel and metal nitrate to fuel ratio was chosen to be 1:3. The resultant powder was sintered at 550 °C for 4 h and used for further characterizations. Single phase formation and nanocrystalline nature was confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis. The crystallite size of all the samples calculated through Debye-Scherrer’s formula found to be in the range of 18–55 nm. The lattice constant calculated from XRD data show decreasing trend. Scanning electron microscopy technique was used to study the surface morphology of typical samples (x = 0.0 and 0.4). The average grain size determined through SEM images found to be 70 nm–35 nm respectively for x = 0.0 and 0.4 samples. The magnetic properties were investigated through magnetization and Mossbauer spectroscopy technique. The saturation magnetization measured from M-H hysteresis plot show decreasing trend with increase in Al–Cr content x. Using Mossbauer spectra the relative area of a sextet (T), Isomer shift (δ), Hyperfine Field (Hf), Quadrupole Splitting (Δ) and Line width (Γ) were calculated. Overall, the co-substitution of Al–Cr has significantly influenced the structural, morphological and magnetic properties of nickel ferrite nanoparticles.