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Herein, we successfully prepared Te4+-doped zero-dimensional (0D) cesium zinc chloride (Cs 2 ZnCl 4) crystals using solvothermal method. The structural and luminescence properties of Cs 2 ZnCl 4 : Te4+ crystals have been investigation in detail by means of spectral experiments and density functional theory calculations. The Cs 2 ZnCl 4 : Te4+ crystal exhibits broadband yellow emission at 580 nm with a photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 33.7% and a large full width at half maximum about 117 nm, of which emission is attributed to self-trapped excitons resulting from lattice vibration of the distorted structure. At low temperature, the PL intensity of Cs 2 ZnCl 4 : Te4+ crystals increase unusually, which is mainly related to the triplet state emission mechanism. In addition, PL lifetime is strongly temperature-dependent, and we calculated the maximum relative sensitivity is 0.93 %K−1 at 105–120 K and the maximum absolute sensitivity is 29 ns K−1 at 130 K. These findings not only provide important clues to the optical properties of 0D metal halides, but also highlight its significant potential in non-contact optical thermometry technology. [Display omitted] • Te4+ doped Cs 2 ZnCl 4 crystals are successfully synthesized by solvothermal method. • At low temperatures, Cs 2 ZnCl 4 : Te4+ crystals exhibit unusual luminescent behavior. • The maximum values of relative and absolute sensitivity are obtained as 0.93 % K−1 and 29 ns K−1, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facilitating (002)‐textured zinc growth is crucial for achieving dendrite‐free zinc deposition in zinc‐ion batteries. Electrolyte engineering holds promise in directing zinc electrodeposition toward this desired orientation. However, despite the (002) plane's lower surface energy compared to other facets, it remains unclear why this plane does not dominate zinc crystal faces during electrodeposition under normal conditions. This knowledge gap underscores the need to better understand zinc electrodeposition behaviors and the influence of electrolyte compositions on its crystallographic texture. This study explores different tetraazamacrocycle derivatives as electrolyte additives. It reveals that achieving (002)‐textured zinc deposition is not solely dictated by thermodynamic equilibrium but also significantly influenced by interface dynamics. In typical ZnSO4 electrolytes, imbalanced kinetics among reduction, ion diffusion, and adatom diffusion processes lead to electroconvection and disorderly zinc accumulation, hindering proper zinc growth. In contrast, introducing specific tetraazamacrocycle derivative in the electrolyte regulates reduction rate, enhances limiting current density, and expedites adatom diffusion, mitigating hydrodynamic instability and dendrite growth. This regulation restores the thermodynamically favorable flat (002)‐textured zinc deposition, extending the zinc anode's lifespan to 1800 h at 5 mA cm−2 and 5 mAh cm−2, enabling the fabrication of a high‐performance zinc ion hybrid capacitor prototype capable of stable operation for 40 000 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic framework materials, as innovative functional materials for nonlinear optical technologies, feature linear and nonlinear optical responses, such as a laser damage threshold, outstanding mechanical properties, thermal stability, and optical transparency. Their non-centrosymmetric crystal structure induces a higher-order nonlinear optical response, which guarantees technological applications. ZnII– and AgI–squarate complexes are attractive templates for these purposes due to their good crystal growth, optical transparency, high thermal stability, etc. However, the space group type of the catena-((μ2-squarato)-tetra-aqua-zinc(II)) complex ([Zn(C4O4)(H2O)4]) is debatable, (1) showing centro- and non-centrosymmetric monoclinic C2/c and Cc phases. The same is valid for the catena-((μ3-squarato)-(μ2-aqua)-silver(I)) complex (Ag2C4O4), (2) exhibiting, so far, only a C2/c phase. This study is the first to report new crystallographic data on (1) and (2) re-determined at different temperatures (293(2) and 300(2)K) and the non-centrosymmetric Cc phase of (2), having different numbers of molecules per unit cell compared with the C2/c phase. There are high-resolution crystallographic measurements of single crystals, experimental electronic absorption, and vibrational spectroscopic data, together with ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometric ones. The experimental results are supported for theoretical optical and nonlinear optical properties obtained via high-accuracy static computational methods and molecular dynamics, using density functional theory as well as chemometrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six types of pure zinc single crystals with different crystal orientations were applied to a single pass of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at 223K so as to investigate the effects of f10x12g twins and slips on grain refinement and texture development. Six ECAP deformation behaviors were categorized into three types: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Type A finally fractured during ECAP, and the grain refinement area was quite limited. Many f1012g twins and f1012g-f1012g double twins were observed above the theoretical shear plane (SP) in ECAP, and recrystallized grains with crystallographic texture were observed beneath the SP in Type B. In Type C, both twinning and double twinning above the SP, and then dynamic recrystallization occurred above the SP. The microstructure showed texture below the SP, and basal slips were mainly activated for texture development in both Types B and C. A single crystal with several hundred cubic millimeters was found to be subdivided into a large number of recrystallized grains solely by a single ECAP pass. Dynamic recrystallization caused by the pile-up of basal dislocations at twin and double twin boundaries above the SP is essential for efficient grain refinement below the SP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-entropy carbides with tunable crystallization and growth have been demonstrated using single-source precursor derived ceramic route. The in situ nanocrystallization of high-entropy carbide phases, (Ta 0.2 W 0.2 V 0.2 Mo 0.2 Nb 0.2)Si δ C and (Ta 0.167 W 0.167 V 0.167 Mo 0.167 Nb 0.167 Si 0.167)C in amorphous Si-based ceramic matrices was achieved by using polysiloxanes and polycarbosilanes as polymer precursors respectively. The results exemplify a prominent role of the architectures of the polymeric precursors in controlling the structural features of these ceramics at various length scales. In particular, it was observed that high-entropy carbides with rock salt and zinc blende crystal structures were formed when polysiloxanes and polycarbosilanes with different backbone structure were used as polymeric precursors respectively. This is attributed to the thermodynamics of nucleation of the carbidic phases in these nanocomposites. Furthermore, the precursor architecture that dictates free carbon content, influenced nanostructural features and porosity in the material. Therefore, engineering such compositionally complex phases is feasible by selecting suitable polymeric precursors. • Precursor architecture influenced the crystal structure of high-entropy carbides. • Crystal structure dependent on earliest nucleated carbidic phase. • Free carbon played a key role in controlling crystallite size and porosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of microfluidic devices integrated with nanostructures enables highly efficient, flexible and controllable biosensing, among which zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructure-based fluorescence detection has been demonstrated to be a promising methodology due to its high electrical point and unique fluorescence enhancement properties. The optimization of microfluidic synthesis of ZnO nanostructures for biosensing on chip has been in demand due to its low cost and high efficiency, but still the flow-induced growth of ZnO nanostructures is not extensively studied. Here, we report a simple and versatile strategy that could manipulate the local flow field by creating periodically arranged micropillars within a straight microchannel. We have explored the effects of perfusion speed and flow direction of seed solution, localized flow variation of growth solution and growth time on the morphology of nanostructures. This provided a comprehensive understanding which governs nanostructure fabrication controlled by flow. The results demonstrated that localized flow in microfluidic devices was essential for the initiation and growth of zinc oxide crystals, enabling precise control over their properties and morphology. Furthermore, a model protein was used to demonstrate the intrinsic fluorescence enhancement of ZnO nanostructures as an example to reveal the morphology-related enhancement properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal of [C(NH2)3]2Zn(SO4)2 guanidine zinc sulfate was grown and its structure, dilatometric, dielectric, elastic and piezoelectric properties were studied in a broad temperature range, covering the phase transition point. The crystal undergoes a continuous phase transition at 178 K from the room temperature tetragonal phase with a space group I 4 ¯ 2 d to the tetragonal low temperature phase with a space group I 4 ¯ . The structural X-ray studies allowed proposing molecular mechanism associated with the rearrangement in the configuration of N–H⋯O hydrogen bonds and reorientation of guanidine cations in the structure, leading to a change in the symmetry of the low temperature phase. Results of thermal expansion and dielectric studies are typical of a structural nonferroelectric continuous transition. Also measurement of piezoelectric and elastic properties revealed small anomalies at 178 K. Below the transition temperature, a new piezoelectric component, that is a ferroelastoelectric macroscopic order parameter, was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth cycle of tellurium zinc cadmium crystals is long and the growth system is complex. When using vertical Bridgman or vertical gradient freezing methods to grow tellurium zinc cadmium (CdZnTe) crystal materials, the growth process is often difficult to observe intuitively, and there is no corresponding means to detect the temperature field inside the crystals, which brings inconvenience to improve the crystal growth process. In this paper, numerical simulation software is used to analyze the influences of furnace air convection on the temperature field of CdZnTe crystal growth. By opening holes at the top and bottom of furnace, gas exchanging occurs between the inside and outside of the furnace, thereby regulates the convection behaviors. Before opening holes, the convection rate is slow (only 10-5 m/s), forming stable convection cells; after opening holes, the convection rate significantly increases (0.25 - 0.90 m/s), and the convection state changes to laminar flow. Through controlling the aperture size (20 - 40 mm) in the model, the laminar flow rate can be effectively regulated. At the same temperature setting, when the flow rate increases from 0.25 m/s to 0.90 m/s, the temperature gradient will increase from 0.5 K/mm to 1.1 K/mm. Furthermore, experimental work is applied on real furnace, the change of temperature filed before and after opening holes were studied. The experimental results of temperature gradient is accord with the simulating results. It is also found that under laminar flow state, increasing convection rate may improve the stability of temperature field. The increase of temperature gradient and the improvement of stability in the temperature field will be beneficial for the preparation of high-quality CdZnTe crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physicochemical characteristics, optical uniformity and photorefractive properties of a series of four LiNbO3:Er:Zn single crystals have been studied. Single crystals have been obtained by the Czochralski method. The erbium content in the crystals was ~0.5 mol % and the zinc content in the crystals was ~4.02, 4.41, 4.65, 4.66 mol %. The dopant distribution in the LiNbO3:Er:Zn melt—crystal system has been studied, and the optimal concentration ranges of erbium and zinc in the initial melt have been determined. The ranges provide crystals with high chemical, optical uniformity and resistance to optical damage for applications in optoelectronics and laser technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic observations show the Earth's inner core has significant and unexplained variation in seismic attenuation with position, depth and direction. Interpreting these observations is difficult without knowledge of the visco‐ or anelastic dissipation processes active in iron under inner core conditions. Here, a previously unconsidered attenuation mechanism is observed in zinc, a low pressure analog of hcp‐iron, during small strain sinusoidal deformation experiments. The experiments were performed in a deformation‐DIA combined with X‐radiography, at seismic frequencies (∼0.003–0.1 Hz), high pressure and temperatures up to ∼80% of melting temperature. Significant dissipation (0.077 ≤ Q−1(ω) ≤ 0.488) is observed along with frequency dependent softening of zinc's Young's modulus and an extremely small activation energy for creep (⩽7 kJ mol−1). In addition, during sinusoidal deformation the original microstructure is replaced by one with a reduced dislocation density and small, uniform, grain size. This combination of behavior collectively reflects a mode of deformation called "internal stress superplasticity"; this deformation mechanism is unique to anisotropic materials and activated by cyclic loading generating large internal stresses. Here we observe a new form of internal stress superplasticity, which we name as "elastic strain mismatch superplasticity." In it the large stresses are caused by the compressional anisotropy. If this mechanism is also active in hcp‐iron and the Earth's inner‐core it will be a contributor to inner‐core observed seismic attenuation and constrain the maximum inner‐core grain‐size to ≲10 km. Plain Language Summary: The Earth's inner‐core is the most remote and inaccessible part of our planet. Knowledge of the inner‐core's structure comes from interpretation of the information held in seismic waves that have passed through the inner‐core. These waves show measurable variation in wave speed and damping with depth. To investigate the wave damping in the inner‐core we performed experiments that mimicked the passage of seismic waves through zinc. Zinc was used as a low‐pressure analog because it has the same crystallographic structure as the iron in the inner‐core. In these experiments, we observed new behavior in the zinc samples that can only be explained by the behavior of different directions within the zinc crystal lattice. These we named "elastic strain mismatch superplasticity" and if the same phenomena occurs in the Earth's inner‐core it could explain the seismic observations. Key Points: Zinc, a low pressure analog for hcp‐iron, deforms by internal stress superplasticity during small amplitude sinusoidal‐strain deformationInternal stress superplasticity due to mechanical oscillations has not been previously reportedInternal stress superplasticity is another attenuation mechanism that could be active in the Earth's inner‐core [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical properties of zinc anodes in rechargeable zinc‐based batteries are neglected. Indeed, electrode stress in zinc crystallization (ESZC) contributes to excess chemical potential under enormous deposition stress, severely impacting zinc crystal patterns and reaction kinetics. Herein, a stress prerelease mechanism to minimize ESZC and drive dendrite‐free zinc anode growth is proposed. The internal stress of the freestanding electrode is prereleased by full‐contact soft‐substrate constraints during fabrication. Under the compression of crystallization stress, the freestanding electrode rapidly deforms and self‐releases into microstrains to reduce ESZC. Furthermore, the weakening of ESZC under the stress‐prerelease mechanism is modified to the actual reaction kinetics, which establishes a direct link between electrode stress and zinc deposition pattern. The processes of crystalline stress transfer and self‐release under the stress prerelease mechanism are revealed using in situ strain monitors. Stress‐prereleased freestanding electrodes drive uniform zinc nucleation and subsequent radial diffusion, guiding Zn epitaxial growth on the nanofibers surface. During repeated deposition/stripping, the stress prerelease mechanism steadily diminishes the possibility of dendrite growth and guarantees the stable operation of dendrite‐free zinc anodes. The stress prereleased freestanding electrodes induce symmetric and full cells to achieve stable and excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indium phosphide (InP) is a binary semiconductor composed of indium and phosphorus. It has a zinc blende crystal structure, which is a type of cubic lattice structure. This lattice is composed of indium and phosphorus atoms arranged in a lattice of cube-shaped cells, with each cell containing four indium atoms and four phosphorus atoms. This lattice structure is the same for all materials with a zinc blende crystal structure and is the most common type of lattice structure in semiconductors. Indium phosphide (InP) has several chemical applications. It is commonly used as a dopant in the production of semiconductors, where it helps control the electrical properties of the material. InP is also utilized in the synthesis various indium-containing compounds, which can have applications in catalysts and chemical reactions. Additionally, InP nanoparticles have been investigated for their potential use in biomedical imaging and drug delivery systems. The topological characterization of 3D molecular structures can be performed via graph theory. In graph theory, the connections between atoms are represented as edges and the atoms themselves are represented as nodes. Furthermore, graph theory can be used to calculate the topological descriptors of the molecule such as the degree-based and reverse degree-based irregularity toplogical indices. These descriptors can be used to compare the topology of different molecules. This paper deals with the modeling and topological characterization of indium phosphide (InP) via degree-based and reverse irregularity indices. The 3D crystal structure of the InP is topologically modeled via partition of the edges, and derived closed form expressions for its irregularity indices. Our obtained results will be surely be helpful in investigating the QSPR/QSAR analysis as well as understanding the deep irregular behavior of the indium phosphide (InP) . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a class of emerging photoluminescent materials, hybrid halide crystals have drawn research attention for their potential application in the fields of light‐emitting, security, and waveguide. Nevertheless, hybrid halide crystals containing antimony with long‐term stability and tunable light emission are still increasingly in demand. In this work, serial new hybrid halide crystals (BZA)2ZnCl4·2H2O:xSb3+ (x = 0–0.2, x represents the reaction ratio) and (BZA)2SbCl5 are synthesized (BZA = 2,4‐diamino‐6‐phenyl‐1,3,5‐triazine). In (BZA)2ZnCl4·2H2O:xSb3+ crystals, Sb3+ cations replace partial Zn2+ cations to form [SbCl4]− tetrahedron. Red light emission caused by the substitution of Sb3+ for Zn2+ enhances as the doping rate increases, resulting in the tunable emission from light blue to pink and finally to dark red. There are two kinds of Sb3+ in (BZA)2SbCl5 crystal. Sb(1) has a sixfold coordination with Cl to form a [Sb(1)Cl5]∞ 1D zigzag chain. Sb(2) atom adopts a fivefold coordination with Cl and is separated from each other by BZA+ cations. (BZA)2SbCl5 crystal shows bright orange‐yellow light emission with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 45%. Moreover, the organic–inorganic hybrid metal halide crystals containing antimony have excellent long‐term stability, with phase and luminescence keeping nearly unchanged after more than six months in ambient air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: The reaction mechanisms of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on various crystal surfaces of zinc anode have been systematically investigated by first-principle calculations. Both the thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of HER have been studied to reveal the relative HER activity of several crystal surface of zinc anode. The generalized coordination number of surface Zn atoms are proposed as a key descriptor of HER activity of Zn anode. Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has become a key factor affecting the cycling stability of aqueous Zn-ion batteries, while the corresponding fundamental issues involving HER are still unclear. Herein, the reaction mechanisms of HER on various crystalline surfaces have been investigated by first-principle calculations based on density functional theory. It is found that the Volmer step is the rate-limiting step of HER on the Zn (002) and (100) surfaces, while, the reaction rates of HER on the Zn (101), (102) and (103) surfaces are determined by the Tafel step. Moreover, the correlation between HER activity and the generalized coordination number ( CN ¯ ) of Zn at the surfaces has been revealed. The relatively weaker HER activity on Zn (002) surface can be attributed to the higher CN ¯ of surface Zn atom. The atomically uneven Zn (002) surface shows significantly higher HER activity than the flat Zn (002) surface as the CN ¯ of the surface Zn atom is lowered. The CN ¯ of surface Zn atom is proposed as a key descriptor of HER activity. Tuning the CN ¯ of surface Zn atom would be a vital strategy to inhibit HER on the Zn anode surface based on the presented theoretical studies. Furthermore, this work provides a theoretical basis for the in-depth understanding of HER on the Zn surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide a concise overview of the behavior exhibited by Sn-doped ZnO crystals using a computational technique known as density functional theory (DFT). The influence of Sn doping on the electronic, structural, and optical properties of ZnO have been explored. Specifically, the wavelength dependent refractive index, extinction coefficient, reflectance, and absorption coefficient, along with electronic band gap structure of the Sn doped ZnO has been examined and analyzed. In addition, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns have been obtained to investigate the structural characteristics of Sn-doped ZnO crystals with varying concentrations of Sn dopant atoms. The incorporation of tin (Sn) into zinc oxide (ZnO) has been observed to significantly impact the opto-electronic properties of the material. This effect can be attributed to the improved electronic band structure and optical characteristics resulting from the tin doping. Furthermore, the controllable structural and optical characteristics of tin-doped zinc oxide will facilitate the development of various light-sensitive devices. Moreover, the impact of Sn doping on the optoelectronic properties of ZnO is thoroughly investigated and documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two different comparatively simple methods were used to synthesize Co3O4/Zn nanocomposites in the form of nanoparticles and nanofibers with a Zn content of 0 to 33 mol%. It is shown that composites in the form of nanoparticles are a ZnxCo3‐xO4 solid solution having a spinel structure. Samples in the form of nanofibers, starting with a concentration of zinc atoms of 20 mol% and higher, in addition to the spinel structure, also contain crystalline zinc oxide ZnO. It has been established that the conductivity of composites of both types increases by 4–5 orders of magnitude upon the introduction of Zn atoms. The increase in conductivity is explained by the incorporation of zinc atoms into the crystal lattice of cobalt oxide spinel. The optimal content of zinc atoms, at which the samples have the highest conductivity, has been determined. The ability to control the conductivity of cobalt oxide Co3O4 both in the form of nanoparticles and in the form of nanofibers by introducing Zn atoms has been demonstrated. The results obtained make it possible to understand the features of electric transport in such low‐dimensional systems, and are also of interest for various practical applications, in particular, gas sensors and catalytically active materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and crystal structure of Zn6B22O39·H2O are described. This new zinc borate was synthesized at 7 GPa and 1523 K in a multianvil device. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnma (no. 62) with the lattice parameters a = 818.77(4), b = 768.42(3), c = 1744.82(9) pm, V = 1.09777(9) nm3, and two formula units per unit cell (Z = 2). The structure is closely related to those of M6B22O39·H2O (M = Fe, Co, Ni, Cd) and features non-planar (BO3) units as demonstrated by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-assembly of ZnCl2 with a new C2-symmetric bidentate N-donor ligand gives rise to stable crystals consisting of 46-membered metallacyclodimers, [ZnCl2L]2·5C4H8O. The tetrahydrofuran solvates of the single crystals are replaced by o-, m-, and p-xylene isomers within 5 min in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) mode, by which this system serves as a tolerant template for reversible adsorption/desorption of target molecules. Further, the equimolar mixture of o-X, m-X, and p-X was adsorbed onto the crystals in the 1 : 1 : 2 mole ratio at room temperature. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the single crystals efficiently show the on–off switching nature on adsorption of CH2I2 in the SCSC mode. Moreover, the [ZnCl2L]2·5C4H8O crystals in an aniline medium transform into crystals of ligand-exchanged species [Zn2Cl4L(C6H5NH2)2]·2C6H5NH2 in the SCSC mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single crystals of zinc sulfate doped L-alanine (LAZ) were grown by adopting the slow evaporation technique at room temperature. The crystal structure of LAZ was determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The functional groups of LAZ were identified by FT-IR spectroscopy analysis. UV–Visible–NIR transmittance study was carried out, and the bandgap energy was found. A fluorescence study was performed to get the emission spectrum of the LAZ crystal. The Vickers microhardness test is used to determine the LAZ crystals mechanical behavior. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses have also been studied to investigate the thermal property of the LAZ crystal. The efficiency of the title crystal's second harmonic generation (SHG) was investigated. The electrical properties were estimated by impedance study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A brief review of the features of the defect structure and studies of the luminescent properties of nonlinear optical lithium niobate crystals of various compositions and genesis was given. It was established that the electron- hole pair –O– in the oxygen-octahedral cluster NbO6 emitted in the short-wavelength region of the visible spectrum (400–500 nm), while point defects (VLi and – bipolarons)—in the long-wavelength region (500–620 nm). At the ratio of Li/Nb ≈ 1 the luminescence was extinguished in the visible region of the spectrum due to decreasing the intrinsic luminescence centers. It was shown that the presence of polaron luminescence in the near-IR region (700–1050 nm) was due to the small polarons and impurity ions Cr3+ localized in lithium and niobium octahedra. The energy transfer between the luminescence centers in the visible and near-IR spectral regions was detected. Moreover, luminescence in near-IR regions was dominant. Doping of LiNbO3 crystals with zinc and magnesium at ZnO < 4.46 mol % and MgO < 5.29 mol % led to decreasing luminescence of intrinsic defects (VLi, – ). However, there was an increase of the contribution of the short-wave spectrum component at higher dopant concentrations because of the introduction of Zn and Mg into the origin positions of Nb ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new zinc borate Zn3B4O9 was synthesized at high‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions of 10 GPa and 1173 K in a Walker‐type multianvil pressure device. It crystallizes in the space group P1‾ ${\bar{1}}$ (no. 2) with a=5.5028(2) Å, b=6.7150(3) Å, c=7.8887(3) Å, α=83.99(1)°, β=73.38(1)°, γ=74.75(1)°, V=269.35(2) Å3, and two formula units (Z=2) per unit cell. The structure was confirmed via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Zn3B4O9 can be synthesized phase pure, which is shown with a Rietveld refinement. IR‐spectroscopic data of a powder sample were collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new zinc borate Zn3B4O9 was synthesized at high‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions of 10 GPa and 1173 K in a Walker‐type multianvil pressure device. It crystallizes in the space group P1‾ ${\bar{1}}$ (no. 2) with a=5.5028(2) Å, b=6.7150(3) Å, c=7.8887(3) Å, α=83.99(1)°, β=73.38(1)°, γ=74.75(1)°, V=269.35(2) Å3, and two formula units (Z=2) per unit cell. The structure was confirmed via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Zn3B4O9 can be synthesized phase pure, which is shown with a Rietveld refinement. IR‐spectroscopic data of a powder sample were collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are a promising option for rechargeable energy storage devices. However, their performance is limited by the growth of zinc dendrites that can cause short circuits. Our research shows that adding a certain percentage of hydrogen peroxide solution to the electrolyte can effectively inhibit the irregular and non-planar growth of zinc dendrite crystals. This additive alters the deposition pattern of zinc and reduces surface roughness. Our experimental results indicate that the electrolyte with H2O2 can increase the cycle life by about 13 times compared to the electrolyte without the additive, extending it to 1057 h. The mechanism analysis reveals that H2O2 replaces H2O in forming hydrated zinc ions and facilitates zinc deposition during charging. Additionally, H2O2 significantly lowers the over-potential for zinc dendrite nucleation and suppresses the tip effect, leading to a uniform zinc morphology. This simple and eco-friendly electrolyte additive provides a strategy to regulate the deposition behavior of zinc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a highly stable and dendrite‐free zinc anode is essential to the commercial application of zinc metal batteries. However, the understanding of zinc dendrites formation mechanism is still insufficient. Herein, for the first time, we discover that the interfacial heterogeneous deposition induced by lattice defects and epitaxial growth limited by residual stress are intrinsic and critical causes for zinc dendrite formation. Therefore, an annealing reconstruction strategy was proposed to eliminate lattice defects and stresses in zinc crystals, which achieve dense epitaxial electrodeposition of zinc anode. The as‐prepared annealed zinc anodes exhibit dendrite‐free morphology and enhanced electrochemical cycling stability. This work first proves that lattice defects and residual stresses are also very important factors for epitaxial electrodeposition of zinc in addition to crystal orientation, which can provide a new mechanism for future researches on zinc anode modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, Polarized Raman spectroscopy is being used to determine and validate the crystallographic orientations of Zinc blend crystals. Two crystals of GaAs and ZnTe oriented along (112) are used for Polarized Raman spectroscopic study. To realize the different angles (α) of the in-plane rotation along the surface normal, and the excitation laser polarization is fixed vertically and the sample is rotated. At the scattering side another polarizer is used to get different angles (β) of polarization. Raman spectroscopic technique has been used to study crystallographic plane identification by measuring the Raman scattered intensity using the variation in α and β angles of GaAs crystals while fixing the reference point in the crystal. GaAs crystal showed a different intensity pattern which is fitted by transformation matrix relation to identify the crystallographic plane direction. In ZnTe crystal due to resonance Raman scattering at room temperature and multi-phonon feature with green laser excitation 1LO phonon intensity does not show any variation by varying (α) rotation while rotating the angle at scattering side polarizer (β), LO intensity variation follows the cosine square law. In Resonant and Non-resonant Raman scattering by varying the temperature and laser excitation, the results of ZnTe are found to be different as compared to GaAs. As a result, Polarized Raman spectroscopic study can be done only in non-resonant Raman scattering perhaps using below-band gap excitation to avoid LO multi-phonon scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical and chemical properties of 210 nm thick InAsSbBi layers grown by molecular beam epitaxy at temperatures between 400 and 430 °C on (100) GaSb substrates are investigated using Rutherford backscattering, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Nomarski optical microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results indicate that the layers are nearly lattice matched, coherently strained, and contain dilute Bi mole fractions. Large surface droplets with diameters on the order of 1 μm and densities on the order of 106 cm−2 are observed when the InAsSbBi growth is performed with lean As overpressures around 1%. Surface droplets are not observed when the As overpressure is increased to 4%. Small crystalline droplets with diameters on the order of 70 nm and densities on the order of 1010 cm−2 are observed between the large droplets for InAsSbBi grown at 430 °C. Analysis of one of the small droplets indicates a misoriented zinc blende crystal structure composed primarily of In, Sb, and Bi, with a lattice constant of 6.543 ± 0.038 Å. Lateral modulation in the Bi mole fraction is observed in InAsSbBi layers grown at 400 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of the transparent ZnO crystallized 9.35K2O-9.35CaO-42.05ZnO-23.36B2O3-9.35SiO2-6.54Al2O3 glass was done using a melt-quenching and heat-treatment route. Three different heat treatments were provided to get different amounts of ZnO crystals in the glass matrix. The X-ray diffraction technique confirmed the ZnO crystallization in the glass matrix. Further characterization was performed using Raman and photoluminescence techniques. The bandgap decreased (3.75–3.14 eV) with an increase in ZnO crystallization. The flower-type morphology of ZnO crystallites was observed using a scanning electron microscope. Contact angle measurements showed an increase in hydrophilicity with the increase in ZnO crystallization. During the photocatalytic ink test using smart Resazurin (Rz) ink, ZnO crystallized glass samples cleaned all ink within 5 h. 78% degradation was observed in Rhodamine B dye (pollutant) using one of the ZnO crystallized samples during the photocatalytic dye degradation test, showing its promising photocatalytic properties. ZnO crystallized glasses portrayed good antibacterial property against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative bacteria). Complete depletion of bacteria within 60 min exposure under ultraviolet irradiation was recorded with one of the ZnO crystallized glasses without any external intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐dimensional (2D) porous zinc oxides (ZnO) were successfully prepared via chemical treatment and thermal annealing of coordination polymers (CPs) precursors consisting of Zn(II) ion and fumarate ligand. The morphology, crystalline phase, chemical state, and surface area of the resultant ZnO were characterized. It is experimentally discovered that the crystal phase of the CP bearing Zn(II) ions is transformed to the zinc hydroxide crystal phase by chemical treatment using ammonia water. The prepared CP‐derived porous 2D ZnO exhibited enhanced photocatalytic efficiency for dye degradation under black‐light irradiation (365 nm) compared to CP‐derived non‐porous ZnO without a chemical‐assisted phase transition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling of deformation processes under shock loading of a barrier made of single-crystal of zinc is carried out taking into account the anisotropy of the thermal and cold parts of pressure. The anisotropy of the cold part of pressure is determined by different values of the linear compression moduli depending on the direction. The anisotropy of the thermal part of pressure is determined by the anisotropy of the Grüneisen coefficients. Using the example of a single-crystal zinc barrier, it is shown that the use of anisotropic pressure in the mathematical model makes it possible to explain the effect of the absence of the emergence of an elastic precursor earlier than a plastic compression wave on the rear surface of the barrier in the [0001] direction under the conditions of full-scale experiments. Numerical simulation of shock loading of a barrier, made of a single crystal of zinc, by an aluminum impactor was carried out by the dynamic finite element method in a three-dimensional formulation at the Debye temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Spalt-like 4 transcription factor (SALL4) plays an essential role in controlling the pluripotent property of embryonic stem cells via binding to AT-rich regions of genomic DNA, but structural details on this binding interaction have not been fully characterized. Here, we present crystal structures of the zinc finger cluster 4 (ZFC4) domain of SALL4 (SALL4ZFC4) bound with different dsDNAs containing a conserved AT-rich motif. In the structures, two zinc fingers of SALL4ZFC4 recognize an AATA tetranucleotide. We also solved the DNA-bound structures of SALL3ZFC4 and SALL4ZFC1. These structures illuminate a common preference for the AATA tetranucleotide shared by ZFC4 of SALL1, SALL3, and SALL4. Furthermore, our cell biology experiments demonstrate that the DNA-binding activity is essential for SALL4 function as DNA-binding defective mutants of mouse Sall4 failed to repress aberrant gene expression in Sall4-/- mESCs. Thus, these analyses provide new insights into the mechanisms of action underlying SALL family proteins in controlling cell fate via preferential targeting to AT-rich sites within genomic DNA during cell differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SZMmit was fabricated through a mild one-step electrodeposition process. • The addition of Mn induced Zn hexagonal platelet orientation. • The separation flux of SZMmit was up to 55.58 kL/m2h. • Diverse oil–water separation scenarios expanded application prospect of SZMmit. • SZMmit has the characteristics of fluorine-free, robust and substrate-independent. Removing oil spills from water presents a significant challenge in environmental remediation. Among various separation materials available, superhydrophobic materials have emerged as promising solutions, notable for their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness. The precise control of micro/nanostructure synthesis plays an essential role in creating superhydrophobic surfaces. Herein, the present study demonstrates controlled growth of well-defined hexagonal platelet-like micro/nanostructures of zinc crystals. This is achieved through deliberate manipulation of the electrodeposition crystal growth process, a facet frequently disregarded in previous studies. Notably, the present work, based on the distinctive properties of the Zn hexagonal close-packed structure (hcp), focuses on the effects of incorporating Mn and deposition parameters on the performance of Zn coatings. These findings offer valuable insights into selectively constructing Zn crystal planes for future electrodeposition endeavors. The resulting zinc/manganese stearate (SZM) coating on stainless steel mesh (SSM) shows remarkable water contact angles, reaching an impressive 163.1 ± 2.4°, in accordance with the Cassie-Baxter theory. This feature facilitates highly efficient oil–water separation. Coupled with size sieving of SSM, SZM coatings exhibit an oil–water separation efficiency of up to 99.86 % and a flux as high as 55.58 kL/m2h. Furthermore, the SZM coating exhibits long-lasting superhydrophobicity and exceptional corrosion resistance, even when subjected to challenging conditions such as high temperatures up to 200℃, pressure reaching 7 kg/cm2, or exposure to chemical and mechanical stresses. These enduring properties make SZM coatings suitable for constructing gravity-based and continuous oil–water separation systems, establishing them as a practical solution for diverse oil–water separation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Crystal structures of zinc metal vanadates is discussed. • Each phase of zinc vanadate has its own merits for energy storage application. • Morphology, structure, and synthesis factors on electrochemical performances. • Potential use of zinc vanadates in supercapacitors and batteries are discussed with regard to of the future. The domain of energy storage has shown a great deal of interest in zinc vanadates (Zn-V-O systems) because of its promising electrochemical qualities, which include high energy density, good thermal stability, and the capacity to function over a wide temperature range. These substances, which are researched for their potential application in batteries and supercapacitors, combine the positive qualities of vanadium and zinc oxides to provide a compound that can be used for a variety of energy storage needs. Zinc vanadates are composed of zinc (Zn), vanadium (V), and oxygen (O), forming compounds that can exist in several stoichiometries and structures. The specific properties of zinc vanadates, including their bandgap, electrical conductivity, and ion intercalation behaviour, can vary significantly depending on their crystal structure and synthesis method. Their peculiar electrochemical features, such as their various oxidation states that facilitate multi-electron transfer processes and result in high specific capacities and energy densities, are what give them prominence. This article explores the use of zinc vanadates in energy storage applications, emphasizing their advantages, recent developments, and mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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We aimed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using the endophytic fungal extract of Aspergillus niger. The prepared ZnO NPs were characterized, and their in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activity was investigated. Isolated endophytic fungus identification was carried out using 18S rRNA. A. niger endophytic fungal extract was employed for the green synthesis of ZnO NPs. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the prepared ZnO NPs was elucidated against Staphylococcus aureus using the broth microdilution method and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Additionally, the in vivo antibacterial activity was elucidated using a systemic infection model in mice. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs showed a maximum optical density at 380 nm with characteristic peaks on the Fourier-transform infrared spectrum. The X-ray diffraction pattern was highly matched with a standard platform of zinc oxide crystals. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis confirmed that the main composition of nanoparticles was zinc and oxygen atoms. Scanning and transmission electron microscopies showed spherical geometry with a smooth surface. Zeta potential measurements (26.6 ± 0.56 mV) verified the adequate stability of ZnO NPs. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of ZnO NPs against S. aureus isolates ranged from 8 to 128 µg/mL. Additionally, ZnO NPs revealed antibiofilm activity, resulting in the downregulation of the tested biofilm genes in 29.17% of S. aureus isolates. Regarding the in vivo experiment, ZnO NPs reduced congestion and fibrosis in liver and spleen tissues. They also improved liver function, increased the survival rate, and significantly decreased inflammatory markers (p < 0.05). ZnO NPs synthesized by A. niger endophytic fungus revealed a promising in vivo and in vitro antibacterial action against S. aureus isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present the absolute calibration of the conical crystal for the zinc spectrometer (ZSPEC), an x-ray spectrometer at the OMEGA laser facility at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. The ZSPEC was originally designed to measure x-ray Thomson scattering using flat or cylindrically curved highly oriented pyrolytic graphite crystals centered around Zn He-alpha emission at 9 keV. To improve the useful spectral range and collection efficiency of the ZSPEC, a conical highly annealed pyrolytic graphite crystal was fabricated for the ZSPEC. The conically bent crystal in the Hall geometry produces a line focus perpendicular to the spectrometer axis, corresponding to the detector plane of electronic detectors at large scale laser facilities such as OMEGA, extending the useful range of the spectrometer to 7–11 keV. Using data collected using a microfocus Mo x-ray source, we determine important characteristics of ZSPEC such as the dispersion, spatial resolution, and absolute sensitivity of the instrument. A ray-trace model of ZSPEC provides another point of agreement in calculations of the ZSPEC dispersion and crystal response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, simplex centroid mixture design was employed to determine the effect of urea on ZnO-CeO. The heterojunction materials were synthesized using a solid-state combustion method, and the physicochemical properties were evaluated using X-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption/desorption, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Photocatalytic activity was determined by a triclosan degradation reaction under UV irradiation. According to the results, the crystal size of zinc oxide decreases in the presence of urea, whereas a reverse effect was observed for cerium oxide. A similar trend was observed for ternary samples, i.e., the higher the proportion of urea, the larger the crystallite cerium size. In brief, urea facilitated the co-existence of crystallites of CeO and ZnO. On the other hand, UV spectra indicate that urea shifts the absorption edge to a longer wavelength. Studies of the photocatalytic activity of TCS degradation show that the increase in the proportion of urea favorably influenced the percentage of mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glasses are synthesized in the SnO–ZnO–P2O5 system. The chemical composition of glass is determined using wet chemistry using complexometric, gravimetric, and redox methods. The manifestation method is used to study the nucleation of tin pyrophosphate crystals in tin–zinc–phosphate glass. The parameters of nucleation of tin pyrophosphate crystals are determined: the stationary rate of crystal nucleation and the time of nonstationary nucleation. The effect of water, impurities WO3 and MoO3, and X-ray radiation on the nucleation parameters is established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower levels of zinc in the food lead to Zn deficiency in the local population of Pakistan. The study aimed to increase the Zn fraction of an edible vegetable for which in-house fabrication of nano-Zn oxide crystals was performed using the sol–gel method. The synthesized nano-crystals exhibited ~ 25 nm diameter, and the XRD peaks indicated a single-phase hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure. The FT-IR spectrum confirmed the vibrational band of nZnO metallic crystals at a peak ranging between 400 and 500 cm−1 and a λmax at 380 nm, confirmed by UV–Vis spectra and SEM study, revealed an irregular morphology. These nanoparticles were applied as a foliar spray to 50-day-old cauliflower at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 µM nZnO concentrations during a field experiment, and data were collected after 50 d of spray treatments at maturity (100-day-old plants). Cauliflower growth traits were improved and non-toxic effects on the foliage was recorded. An increase in leaf chlorophyll and free amino acids was recorded as well. Furthermore, ZnO nano-crystal foliar application caused improvements in curd diameter and curd weight resulting in higher productivity. Nano-Zn spray treatments after the curd initiation improved curd Zn fraction at, particularly at 100 µM concentration (up to 34 µg g−1 DW). Conclusively, the applied nZnO crystals were non-toxic and biocompatible, and a significant fraction of Zn translocated to the cauliflower curd suggested the potential use in biofortification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Low-energy He ions are used to irradiate CZT detectors. • Exploration of the mechanism and electrical properties of internal defects in CZT crystals/detectors affect by ion radiation. • The irradiation damage of CZT crystals/detectors have been repaired by low-temperature annealing process. Cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) crystals are widely used in room temperature nuclear radiation detectors, astrophysical detectors, and radiochemical detectors due to their excellent material properties such as high resistivity, high average atomic number, and high electron mobility lifetime product. Since CZT detectors are often required to operate in harsh radiation environments, they are susceptible to irradiation damage effects. And annealing is considered to be an effective treatment method to repair the irradiation damage of CZT detectors. In this paper, low-energy He ions are used to irradiate high-resistivity CZT crystals, and the mechanism of the effect of ion irradiation on the internal defects of CZT crystals is analyzed. The electron mobility lifetime product of the CZT detector decreases after irradiation, and the carrier transport performance deteriorates. The irradiation damage of CZT crystals/detectors have been repaired by low-temperature annealing process, which shows that the optimal annealing temperature is 70 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The uniform and dense Zn layers is prepared by pulse current electrodeposition. • Annealed copper foil can induce preferential deposition of Zn (002) plane. • The increasing of current density can increase Zn (002) plane percentage. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have shown great potential for large-scale application of energy storage, and the crystal orientation of zinc (Zn) anode is closely related to the battery performance. In order to further clarify the relationship between Zn(002) plane and battery performance, the dense Zn layers was deposited by pulse current on annealed copper foils. The relationship between pulse current density and Zn(002) plane percentage was investigated, and the relationship between Zn(002) plane and battery performance was clarified. The results show that the orientation consistency of deposited Zn layers becomes better with the increasing of current density, and Zn(002) plane percentage gradually increases. The Zn anode was prepared with the current density of 30 mA cm−2, and the assembled full cell exhibits more stable cycling performance, meanwhile, the Coulombic efficiency of nearly 100 % can still be maintained after cycling for 500 cycles. The performance of aqueous ZIBs significantly improves with the increasing of Zn(002) plane percentage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable aqueous zinc-ion batteries are of great research interest and show promising potential for various applications due to their high capacity, low cost, environmental friendliness, and sustainability. However, the electrochemical performance of these batteries can be negatively impacted by corrosion and dendrite growth on the zinc anode during battery operation. This can lead to decreased cycle stability and safety, thus hindering their further development. This work introduces a method that utilizes phenylphosphonic acid for etching zinc anodes, resulting in the formation of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer on the surface. By adjusting the concentration of the acid and the etching time, an increased exposure ratio of the (002) crystal plane in zinc crystals is achieved. This promotes uniform zinc ion deposition and enhances ionic conductivity, ultimately improving the electrochemical stability of the anode. Symmetrical cells with zinc sheets subjected to appropriate acid etching conditions show an overpotential fluctuation within 60 mV, maintaining cycling stability for over 1100 h. When assembled with MnO 2 cathode material, the full battery exhibits excellent rate performance and cycling stability as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Tailoring the crystal facet of electrocatalyst for syngas production. • HFGDEs provide sufficient CO 2 supply and improved triple-phase interfaces. • Syngas selectivity over 90 % and achieved a production rate of 1328.6 µmol/h∙cm2. • This strategy can be versatile by loading other nanostructured electrocatalysts. Electrochemical reduction of CO 2 (CO 2 RR) in aqueous electrolytes not only relies on advanced gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) to improve CO 2 mass transportation but also efficient electrocatalysts to produce specific products. Herein, to produce syngas (CO and H 2 mixture), a facet-orientated zinc nanosheet catalyst was electrodeposited on the Cu hollow fiber GDE via a controllable facile surfactant-assisted method. The introduction of cationic surfactant cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) could manipulate the nucleation and crystal growth of zinc ions around the GDE during the electrodeposition process, leading to controlled changes in the surface free energy and tuned zinc crystal growth orientation. Consequently, the ZncNS-HF with the largest ratio of Zn (1 0 1)/Zn (0 0 2), resulted in a high current density of 73.3 mA/cm2 and a high syngas production rate of 1328.6 µmol/h∙cm2 at applied potential −1.3 V (vs. RHE). This comes from the hierarchical structure of HFGDE, which provides sufficient CO 2 reaching the catalyst/electrolyte interface, and the well-connected zinc nanosheets contribute to a significant number of active sites for CO 2 RR. This is the first time to configure flow-through or gas-penetrated HFGDEs with zinc crystal facets controlled nanosheet catalysts for syngas production. This research demonstrates the high potential of nanoengineering catalysts for HFGDEs to achieve high production rates of syngas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GaSb and Ga 1- x Al x Sb crystals were prepared with the vertical Bridgman (VB) method. The effects of aluminum atoms (Al) doping on the structure and photoelectric properties of GaSb crystal were investigated. The results show that the GaAlSb crystal maintains the zinc blende crystal structure of the GaSb crystal, and the crystal quality gradually improves with the increase of Al doping concentration, and the effective segregation coefficient k eff of Al decreases from 3.69 to 2.83. Furthermore, Al doping significantly inhibits the formation of dislocations, of which density decreases from 3.634 × 103 cm−2 to 1.256 × 103 cm−2. As an element with the same equivalent electrons as Ga, Al doping makes GaSb crystal become into an n -type semiconductor with the free electrons as the main carriers, from a p -type semiconductor with the holes as the main carriers (8.867 × 1017 cm−3). And the carrier concentration, i.e., the free electrons concentration, increases with the doped Al concentration increase, up to the maximum of 1.929 × 1018 cm−3. And the mobility of electron carriers increases with the increase of Al concentration, up to 2.140 × 103 cm2/(V•s), far greater than that of the hole carriers 1.358 × 103 cm2/(V•s). And the resistivity decreases from 7.649 × 10−3 Ω•cm to 1.416 × 10−3 Ω•cm. Moreover, the infrared transmittance spectrum also shows a significant improvement of the crystal quality. • GaSb and Ga 1- x Al x Sb crystals were prepared with the vertical Bridgman method. • Al doping reduces the dislocation density from 3.634 × 103 to 1.256 × 103 cm−2. • Al doping makes a p-type semiconductor become a n-type one. • Al doping increases the carriers' concentration from 8.86 × 1017 to 1.92 × 1018 cm−3. • Al doping increases the carriers' mobility from 1.358 × 103 to 2.140 × 103 cm2/(V•s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Acetic acid, a common pollutant present in museums and art galleries, can irreversibly damage works of art. Herein, a sustainable and scalable synthesis of zinc oxide-castor oil polyurethane hybrids (ZnO/COPs), to be used as acetic acid removers in the preventive conservation of Cultural Heritage, is reported. The adsorption capacities of ZnO/COPs were studied in saturated acetic acid atmosphere, at low acetic acid gas concentration, and inside a wooden crate (naturally emitting acetic acid) representative of those used in the storage deposits of museums and art collections. Upon exposure, acetic acid interacts with the castor oil polyurethane and diffuses to the surface of ZnO particles where is stably fixed as zinc acetate crystals. Zinc acetate domains form homogeneously on the surface and are distributed evenly within the ZnO/COPs, thanks to weak interactions between the polyurethane matrix and acetic acid that favour the transport of the acid up to reach the zinc oxide surfaces, resulting in a synergistic effect. The ZnO/COPs composites showed significantly enhanced adsorption capacities of acetic acid surpassing those of the activated carbon benchmark, with the advantage of being easily handled and movable, without the health issues and risks associated to the use of non-confined micro/nano-powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to shed fresh light on the polyhedral shape (in)stability of crystals growing under conditions of uneven diffusion supply of building material. A simplified theoretical consideration of the phenomenon is presented; the whole crystal is regarded as material consumer (but not merely a separate face on it). Accounted is for the fact that different amounts of building material are supplied by diffusion to the diverse types of crystal faces. Besides, critical sizes of crystal faces over which they lose the ability to grow macroscopically flat (because shallow cavities are formed on them) are calculated not only for the basal faces of Zn crystals growing from highly diluted own vapors mixed in inert (in respect to this metal) gases, such as H2 and Ar, but also for the pyramidal crystal faces. So, a logical explanation is given of the long‐standing problem: why the measured critical sizes of Zn single crystals grown in inert atmospheres are much smaller than the theoretically calculated critical sizes? Finally, the widths of the macroscopically flat rims surrounding the cavities on basal faces of Zn and Cd crystals (growing under conditions of uneven diffusion supply of building material) are determined in a simplified way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoporous metals have been widely used in recent years for energy storage, catalysis and sensors due to their special structure and functional properties. One useful way to produce nanoporous metal is the dealloying approach. In this paper, the authors used seignette salt (NaKC4H4O6) as a coordinating agent to electrodeposit CuZn alloys under alkaline conditions, and then prepared the nanoporous copper foil through chemical corrosion dealloying. In order to study the electrochemical behaviour of the CuZn alloy electrodeposition process, cyclic voltammetry testing was carried out. The results show that the CuZn alloy electrodeposition is an irreversible reaction under diffusion control and follows the initial three-dimensional nucleation mechanism. The nucleation process is dominated by continuous nucleation. In addition, the surface crystal grains and zinc content increase with the increase of current density. After dealloying the CuZn alloy, the existence of nanoporous structure was confirmed by SEM (scanning electron microscopy). Under the optimum technical conditions, the pore size of the nanoporous copper foil is about 200- 800 nm with thickness of the porous layer 2-5 μm. It is believed that this research offers an alternative pathway for designing nanoporous copper foil materials and related high performance for numerous applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-point bending tests were performed on pure zinc single crystals with different crystal orientations to investigate orientation dependence on bending deformation behavior. With basal planes parallel to the neutral planes, the specimens deformed due to basal slips and formed a gull shape after deformation. On the other hand, specimens whose neutral planes are perpendicular to the basal planes and neutral axes are perpendicular to [0001] deformed due to second order pyramidal ©c + aª slips, {10112} twinning and basal slips within {10112} twins, displaying a V shape. The bending deformation behavior of pure zinc single crystals was found to show strong orientation dependence. Also, the bending deformation behavior of pure zinc single crystals was found to differ from that of pure magnesium single crystals when the neutral plane and neutral axis are respectively perpendicular to the basal planes and [0001]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present review, new approaches for the stabilization of metastable phases of zinc oxide and the growth of ZnO single crystals under high pressures and high temperatures are considered. The problems of the stabilization of the cubic modification of ZnO as well as solid solutions on its basis are discussed. A thermodynamic approach to the description of zinc oxide melting at high pressures is described which opens up new possibilities for the growth of both undoped and doped (for example, with elements of group V) single crystals of zinc oxide. The possibilities of using high pressure to vary phase and elemental composition in order to create ZnO-based materials are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• EFM analysis of CZT under low energy argon ion irradiation at different temperatures. • Substrate temperature during irradiation determine structure and electrical properties. • Ion irradiation at different temperatures might induce p-type to n-type conversion. • Possible defects identified as Te inclusions revealed charge trapping. • Grain boundary revealed charge trapping. The surface electric charge after low energy argon ion irradiation at different temperatures of Vertical Gradient Freeze-Grown Cd 0.9 Zn 0.1 Te substrates has been analysed by using Electrostatic Force and Atomic Force microscopies. The charge trapping effects of different kind of defects created after ion irradiation has been ascertained. This analysis also points out to the fact that the electrical character, p or n-type, of the Cd 0.9 Zn 0.1 Te surfaces might be changed by selecting the proper irradiation conditions and surface temperatures during the irradiation process. Although the change in conductivity from p-type to n-type as a consequence of low energy ion irradiation has been previously reported for other materials, this is the first time that this kind of analysis has been carried out for Cd 0.9 Zn 0.1 Te crystals irradiated with low energy ions at different temperatures. p-n junction device fabrication process could be simplified by this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]