ABSTRACT: This study explores a novel approach to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate fabrication through the heat-induced fragmentation of gold nanowires (Au NWs) and its impact on gold nanoparticle adhesion/static friction using atomic force microscopy manipulations. Controlled heating experiments and scanning electron microscopy measurements reveal significant structural transformations, with NWs transitioning into nanospheres or nanorods in a patterned fashion at elevated temperatures. These morphological changes lead to enhanced Raman signals, particularly demonstrated in the case of Rhodamine B molecules. The results underscore the critical role of NW shape modifications in augmenting the SERS effect, shedding light on a cost-effective and reliable method for producing SERS substrates.

ABSTRACT: The development and testing of antimicrobial coatings continues to be a crucial approach, considering the ongoing emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the rapid transmission of highly pathogenic viruses. In this study, three types of coatings—pure metallic copper (Cu), zinc oxide (ZnO), and a three-layer zinc oxide and copper mixed coating (ZnO/Cu/ZnO)—were deposited by magnetron sputtering on polyethylene terephthalate substrates to evaluate their antimicrobial potential using various microorganisms, including viruses. Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria were used for the assessment of antibacterial properties. Antiviral testing was performed using MS2 bacteriophage and replication-deficient Semliki Forest virus, both representing single-stranded RNA-containing viruses. The samples’ ability to cause reactive oxygen species formation was measured, and the effect on bacterial metabolic activity was evaluated. Cu-coated samples showed high inhibitory activity (>95%) against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria, as well as against tested viruses (SFV and MS2). The antibacterial and antiviral properties of ZnO/Cu/ZnO and ZnO coatings were not significant. Although ZnO/Cu/ZnO and ZnO caused inhibition of the metabolic activity of the bacteria, it was insufficient for complete bacteria eradication. Furthermore, significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was detected only for single Cu-coated samples, correlating with the strong bacteria-killing ability. We suppose that the ZnO layer exhibited a low release of Zn ions and prevented contact of the Cu layer with bacteria and viruses in the ZnO/Cu/ZnO coating. We conclude that current ZnO and Cu-ZnO-layered coatings do not possess antibacterial and antiviral activity.

ABSTRACT: This study introduces a novel approach for fabricating ZnS/Al₂O₃/TaSe₂ heterostructured core/shell nanowires (NWs) through the selenization of a metallic Ta thin film precursor. The synthesis process involves a meticulously designed four-step protocol: (1) generating ZnS NWs on an oxidized silicon substrate, (2) encapsulating these NWs with a precisely controlled thin Al₂O₃ layer via atomic layer deposition (ALD), (3) applying a Ta precursor layer by magnetron sputtering, and (4) annealing in a Se-rich environment in a vacuum-sealed quartz ampoule to transform the Ta layer into TaSe₂, resulting in the final core/shell structure. The characterization of the newly produced NWs using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was validated using the integrity and composition of the heterostructures. Our method not only establishes a new pathway for the synthesis of TaSe₂-based core/shell NWs but also extends the potential for creating a variety of core/shell NW systems with chalcogenide shells by adapting the thin film metal precursor approach. This versatility opens the way for future advancements in nanoscale material applications, particularly in electronics and optoelectronics where core/shell geometries are increasingly important.

ABSTRACT: We investigate the effective oxidation state and local environment of yttrium in photochromic YHO thin film structures produced by e-beam evaporation, along with their chemical structure and optical properties. Transmission electron microscopy images reveal the oxidized yttrium hydride thin film sample exhibiting a three-layered structure. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements manifest that the oxidation state of yttrium is modified, dependent on the film’s composition/depth. Furthermore, Ion beam analysis confirms that this variability is associated with a composition gradient within the film. X-ray absorption spectroscopy at the Y K-edge reveals that the effective oxidation state of yttrium is approximately +2.5 in the transparent/bleached state of YHO. Spectroscopic ellipsometry investigations showed a complex non-linear optical depth profile of the related sample confirming the dominant phase of YHO and the presence of Y₂O₃ and Y towards the middle of the film. The first evidence of n; k) dispersion curves for e-beam sputtered photochromic YHO thin films are reported for transparent and dark states.