DIVISION of SURFACE PHYSICS and NANOTECHNOLOGY

@article{Bazarnik2023,

title = {Antiferromagnetism-driven two-dimensional topological nodal-point superconductivity},

author = {Maciej Bazarnik and Lo Conte, Roberto and Eric Mascot and Kirsten von Bergmann and Dirk K. Morr and Roland Wiesendanger },

doi = {10.1038/s41467-023-36201-z},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-04},

urldate = {2023-02-04},

journal = {Nature Communications},

volume = {14},

number = {614},

issue = {1},

pages = {1-7},

abstract = {Magnet/superconductor hybrids (MSHs) hold the promise to host emergent topological superconducting phases. Both one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) magnetic systems in proximity to s-wave superconductors have shown evidence of gapped topological superconductivity with zero-energy end states and chiral edge modes. Recently, it was proposed that the bulk transition-metal dichalcogenide 4Hb-TaS2 is a gapless topological nodal-point superconductor (TNPSC). However, there has been no experimental realization of a TNPSC in a MSH system yet. Here we present the discovery of TNPSC in antiferromagnetic (AFM) monolayers on top of an s-wave superconductor. Our calculations show that the topological phase is driven by the AFM order, resulting in the emergence of a gapless time-reversal invariant topological superconducting state. Using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy we observe a low-energy edge mode, which separates the topological phase from the trivial one, at the boundaries of antiferromagnetic islands. As predicted by the calculations, we find that the relative spectral weight of the edge mode depends on the edge’s atomic configuration. Our results establish the combination of antiferromagnetism and superconductivity as a novel route to design 2D topological quantum phases.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/SBAD/2220},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Duszczak2022,

title = {Distinct insight into the use of difunctional double-decker silsesquioxanes as building blocks for alternating A–B type macromolecular frameworks},

author = {Julia Duszczak and Aleksandra Mrzygłód and Katarzyna Mituła and Michał Dutkiewicz and Rafał Januszewski and Monika Rzonsowska and Beata Dudziec and Marek Nowicki and Maciej Kubicki},

doi = {10.1039/D2QI02161G},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-12-12},

urldate = {2022-12-12},

journal = {Inorganic Chemistry Frontiers},

volume = {10},

issue = {3},

pages = {888-899},

abstract = {Despite the rapid progress in the research on the synthesis of linear macromolecular systems with double-decker SQs included in the co-polymer chain, based on diverse catalytic processes, it still has limitations because of the formation of co-oligomers up to 20 units in a chain. Herein, we present a distinct look at known hydrosilylation reactions for forming hybrid copolymers. It is used as a synthetic protocol to synthesize DDSQ-based linear A–B alternating macromolecular systems and this is the first report on the formation of co-polymers with DDSQ with DPn over 1000. Additionally, this distinct insight concerns studies on the impact of Si–H and Si–Vi reactive group placement in DDSQ or in a respective co-reagent on the molecular weight distributions, degree of polymerization of the resulting copolymers as well as their selected physicochemical properties, i.e. thermal, mechanical, and hydrophobic properties. Understanding the basics of the catalytic processes leading to co-polymer SQ-based systems will pave the way for their use in the formation of hybrid materials of desired properties and respective applications},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{kwiecien2022,

title = {Effect of surface preparation on PtSe2 crystal surface morphology},

author = {Katarzyna Kwiecień and Wojciech Koczorowski and Tomasz Grzela},

doi = {10.1016/j.susc.2022.122181},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-09-16},

urldate = {2022-09-16},

journal = {Surface Science},

volume = {727 },

pages = {122181},

abstract = {Transition metal dichalcogenides, a new class of layered materials, have recently been deemed as an excellent material platform for the further development of microelectronics. Contrary to the general trend, which is geared toward layers, we focus our attention on basic research regarding bulk PtSe2. The justification for this approach is based on the fact that some research (e.g., on the impact of the doping process on the material’s properties) can be performed on the bulk crystal. We believe that the conclusions drawn from our approximation can be extrapolated to thin films and monolayers. In this paper, we present a morphological study of the influence of the surface preparation procedure on the PtSe2 substrate. We show that mechanical exfoliation is one possible way to achieve a clean PtSe2 surface. However, STM measurements revealed that process is insufficient to achieve an atomically clean surface. Subsequent additional annealing under UHV conditions led to an improved surface morphology by reducing the number of mobile PtSe2 flakes as well as the density of small surface clusters. Finally, STM measurements show other interesting surface structures, such as cracks, bulges, and flakes with heights lower than the apparent height typical of a PtSe2 monolayer.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/SBAD/2220},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Wieszczycka2022,

title = {Novel iminepyridinium -modified silicas as super-adsorbents for metals ions},

author = {Karolina Wieszczycka and Irmina Wojciechowska and Kinga Filipowiak and Tomasz Buchwald and Marek Nowicki and Patrycja Dudzińska and Beata Strzemiecka and Adam Voelkel},

doi = {10.1016/j.apsusc.2022.153555},

issn = {01694332},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-09-01},

urldate = {2022-09-01},

journal = {Applied Surface Science},

volume = {596},

pages = {153555},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {For effective removal of toxic metals from waste water, novel bifunctional iminepyridinium- silicas were fabricated and studied in detail to show their high applicability as adsorbents of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II). The novel adsorbents were synthesized using two-stage procedure to incorporate sillylpropylpyridinium moieties: co-condensation to obtain chloro- and bromopropyl-functionalised silicas, and next quaternisation with N-decyloxy-1-(pyridin-4-yl)ethaneimine and N-decyloxypyridine-4-carboximidamide (MCl-D4EI, MBr-D4EI, and MCl-D4IA, MBr-D4IA, respectively). The fabricated materials were characterized by Raman, SEM, XPS, zeta potential and IGC techniques. Various batch adsorption parameters were investigated to demonstrate high potential of the novel sorbents. The optimum pH for adsorption of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) from aqueous solutions was found to be 4–6 and the maximum loading was obtained after a contact time of 15 min. The process took place on the surface through chemisorption, in which imine and amine groups lead to the strong binding of the metals ions. The spherical MBr-D4IA was found to be the most efficient sorbent of Pb(II) and Cd(II) with the adsorption capacity of 339 mg/g and 173 mg/g, respectively, while Cu(II) was co-extracted from the synthetic waste solution in 79%. Moreover, MBr-D4IA displayed extraordinary tolerance to the presence of coexisting ions, good reusability and stability.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{szubert2022,

title = {Fluorocarbosilane-Based Protective Coatings for Concrete},

author = {Karol Szubert and Agnieszka Dutkiewicz and Marek Nowicki and Hieronim Maciejewski},

doi = {10.3390/ma15175994},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-08-30},

urldate = {2022-08-30},

journal = {Materials},

volume = {15},

pages = {5994},

abstract = {The effectiveness of protective coatings based on 3-(2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-octafluoropentyloxy)

propyltriethoxysilane (OFTES) in protecting concrete surfaces against water was tested. For the

synthesis of OFTES, 2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-octafluoropentanol, which is a by-product in the synthesis of

poly(tetrafluoroethylene), was used. The proposed silane is a cheaper alternative to the fluorinated

organosilicon compounds currently used. The coatings were deposited by the sol-gel method. As a

result of the creation of chemical bonds between the concrete surface and the silane, a coating was

created that permanently increases the hydrophobicity of the concrete. Fluorine chains attached

to silicon atoms are an effective barrier that prevents access to water and limits its impact on the

concrete surface. As a result of the proposed silanization, the concrete surface obtained a hydrophobic

character at contact angles of up to 126 deg., and the water absorption of the concrete decreased by up

to 96 %.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {The Influence of Aminoalcohols on ZnO Films’ Structure},

author = {Ewelina Nowak and Edyta Chłopocka and Mirosław Szybowicz and Alicja Stachowiak and Wojciech Koczorowski and Daria Piechowiak and Andrzej Miklaszewski},

doi = {10.3390/gels8080512},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-08-17},

urldate = {2022-08-17},

journal = {Gels},

volume = {8},

issue = {512},

abstract = {Preparing structures with the sol-gel method often requires control of the basal plane of crystallites, crystallite structures, or the appearance of the voids. One of the critical factors in the formation of a layer are additives, such as aminoalcohols, which increase the control of the sol formation reaction. Since aminoalcohols differ in boiling points and alkalinity, their selection may play a significant role in the dynamics of structure formation. The main aim of this work is to examine the properties of ZnO layers grown using different aminoalcohols at different concentration rates. The layers were grown on various substrates, which would provide additional information on the behavior of the layers on a specific substrate, and the mixture was annealed at a relatively low temperature (400 °C). The research was conducted using monoethanolamine (MEA) and diethanolamine (DEA). The aminoalcohols were added to the solutions in equal concentrations. The microscopic image of the structure and the size of the crystallites were determined using micrographs. X-ray diffractometry and Raman spectroscopy were used for structural studies, phase analysis and to establish the purity of the obtained films. UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence were used to evaluate structural defects. This paper shows the influence of the stabilizer on the morphology of samples and the influence of the morphology and structure on the optical properties. The above comparison may allow the preparation of ZnO samples for specific applications.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0511/SBAD/0018},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{El-Ahmar2022a,

title = {The Comparison of InSb-Based Thin Films and Graphene on SiC for Magnetic Diagnostics under Extreme Conditions},

author = {Semir El-Ahmar and Marta Przychodnia and Jakub Jankowski and Rafał Prokopowicz and Maciej Ziemba and Maciej J. Szary and Wiktoria Reddig and Jakub Jagiełło and Artur Dobrowolski and Tymoteusz Ciuk},

doi = {10.3390/s22145258},

issn = {1424-8220},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-07-01},

urldate = {2022-07-01},

journal = {Sensors},

volume = {22},

number = {14},

pages = {5258(17)},

abstract = {The ability to precisely measure magnetic fields under extreme operating conditions is becoming increasingly important as a result of the advent of modern diagnostics for future magnetic-confinement fusion devices. These conditions are recognized as strong neutron radiation and high temperatures (up to 350 °C). We report on the first experimental comparison of the impact of neutron radiation on graphene and indium antimonide thin films. For this purpose, a 2D-material-based structure was fabricated in the form of hydrogen-intercalated quasi-free-standing graphene on semi-insulating high-purity on-axis 4H-SiC(0001), passivated with an Al2O3 layer. InSb-based thin films, donor doped to varying degrees, were deposited on a monocrystalline gallium arsenide or a polycrystalline ceramic substrate. The thin films were covered with a SiO2 insulating layer. All samples were exposed to a fast-neutron fluence of ≈7×10^(17) cm^(−2). The results have shown that the graphene sheet is only moderately affected by neutron radiation compared to the InSb-based structures. The low structural damage allowed the graphene/SiC system to retain its electrical properties and excellent sensitivity to magnetic fields. However, InSb-based structures proved to have significantly more post-irradiation self-healing capabilities when subject to proper temperature treatment. This property has been tested depending on the doping level and type of the substrate.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/SBAD/2220

Funding from the National Centre for Research and Development (Poland), Project “MAGSET” No. LIDER/8/0021/L- 11/19/NCBR/2020

Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/SBAD/6211},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Bogdanowicz2022,

title = {Siloxane resins as hydrophobic self-cleaning layers for silicon and dye-sensitized solar cells: material and application aspects },

author = { Krzysztof A. Bogdanowicz and Michał Dutkiewicz and Hieronim Maciejewski and Marek Nowicki and Wojciech Przybył and Ireneusz Plebankiewicz and Agnieszka Iwan},

doi = {10.1039/D2RA02698H },

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-06-30},

urldate = {2022-06-30},

journal = {RSC Advances},

volume = {12},

issue = {30},

pages = {19154-19170},

abstract = {The aim of this study has been to examine in depth three siloxane resins (R1–R3) and two silanes (S1–S2) as hydrophobic self-cleaning layers for silicon and dye-sensitized solar cells. Herein, we focused on creating an active self-cleaning surface system using a combination of material and technical aspects. Siloxane resins were obtained via the hydrolytic polycondensation of methyltrimethoxysilane (R1) or the hydrolytic co-polycondensation of methyltrimethoxysilane, isobutyltrimethoxysilane and 3-methacroiloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (R2) or methyltrimethoxysilane n-octyltriethoxysilane and 3-methacroiloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (R3) under alkaline conditions using tetrahydrofuran. All layers under study did not significantly affect the original optical properties of the glass support, confirming that all these compounds can be used as protective layers on glass surfaces. The hydrophobic nature of formed layers was confirmed by static water contact angle measurements for hexane- and/or dibutyl ether-based starting solutions at various concentrations. The structural defects in created layers were studied via atomic force microscopy and thermal imaging, revealing RMS roughness (Rq) values in the range of 0.76–5.25 nm, which varied for different materials. The current–voltage curves of different hydrophobic coatings showed conductive behaviour, demonstrating that principally non-conductive coatings mixed with silver conductive paste showed a certain level of conductivity. This finding suggests that the hydrophobic coating resembles a porous structure, enabling the formation of electrically conductive pathways. Finally, the influence of the presence of a coating layer on silicon and dye-sensitized solar cells was studied, and no negative effect on their photovoltaic parameters was observed after the durability test.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{El-Ahmar2022,

title = {Graphene on SiC as a promising platform for magnetic field detection under neutron irradiation},

author = {Semir El-Ahmar and Maciej J. Szary and Tymoteusz Ciuk and Rafał Prokopowicz and Artur Dobrowolski and Jakub Jagiełło and Maciej Ziemba},

doi = {10.1016/j.apsusc.2022.152992},

issn = {01694332},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Applied Surface Science},

volume = {590},

pages = {152992(11)},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {In this paper, we report on the first experimental study on the impact of neutron radiation on quasi-free-standing (QFS) graphene. For this purpose, we have fabricated hydrogen-intercalated QFS graphene on semiinsulating high-purity 4H-SiC(0001), passivated it with an Al2O3 layer, and exposed it to a fast-neutron fluence of ≈6.6×10^17 cm^(−2). The results have shown that the graphene sheet is only moderately affected by the neutron radiation with the estimated defect density of ≈4×10^10 cm^(−2). The low structural damage allowed the Al2O3/graphene/SiC system to maintain its electrical properties and an excellent sensitivity to magnetic fields characteristic of QFS graphene. Consequently, our findings suggest that the system may be a promising platform for magnetic diagnostics in magnetic-confinement fusion reactors. However, the scope of its use should be a subject of further study. In this context, we have explored possible modes of damage and have concluded that the main factor that affects the electrical parameters of the structure is the impact of neutrons on the layer of hydrogen atoms saturating the SiC(0001) surface. We have shown, employing density functional theory (DFT) computations, that damage to the intercalating layer could lower hole concentration in graphene via reduced charge polarization and local coupling on the interface.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/SBAD/2120},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Przychodnia2022,

title = {Controlled growth of Gd-Pt surface alloys on Pt (111)},

author = {Marta Przychodnia and Michał Hermanowicz and Emil Sierda and Micha Elsebach and Tomasz Grzela and Roland Wiesendanger and Maciej Bazarnik},

doi = {10.1103/PhysRevB.105.035416},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics},

volume = {105},

number = {3},

pages = {035416},

publisher = {American Physical Society},

abstract = {In this paper, we are reporting on the structural and electronic properties of Gd-Pt surface alloys grown on a Pt(111) substrate. Using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy combined with density functional theory calculations, we are exploring differences between three different surface alloys, identified as single-layer GdPt2, single-layer GdPt5, and double-layer GdPt5. We show that an appropriate choice of substrate temperature as well as surface coverage with Gd atoms allows for selective growth of all observed surface structures.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0512/DSPB/2022

Funding from the National Science Center (Poland), Project No. 2019/33/N/ST5/01711

Funding from the National Science Center (Poland), Project No. 2017/26/E/ST3/00140},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Kauzny2022,

title = {Machine Learning Approach for Application-Tailored Nanolubricants ' Design},

author = {Jarosław Kałużny and Aleksanda Świetlicka and Łukasz Wojciechowski and Sławomir Boncel and Grzegorz Kinal and Tomasz Runka and Marek Nowicki and Oleksandr Stepanenko and Bartosz Gapiński and Joanna Leśniewicz and Paulina Błaszkiewicz and Krzysztof Kempa},

doi = {doi.org/10.3390/nano12101765},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Nanomaterials},

volume = {12},

number = {10},

pages = {1765(10)},

abstract = {The fascinating tribological phenomenon of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) observed at the nanoscale was confirmed in our numerous macroscale experiments. We designed and employed CNT- containing nanolubricants strictly for polymer lubrication. In this paper, we present the experiment characterising how the CNT structure determines its lubricity on various types of polymers. There is a complex correlation between the microscopic and spectral properties of CNTs and the tribological parameters of the resulting lubricants. This confirms indirectly that the nature of the tribological mechanisms driven by the variety of CNT–polymer interactions might be far more complex than ever described before. We propose plasmonic interactions as an extension for existing models describing the tribological roles of nanomaterials. In the absence of quantitative microscopic calculations of tribological parameters, phenomenological strategies must be employed. One of the most powerful emerging numerical methods is machine learning (ML). Here, we propose to use this technique, in combination with molecular and supramolecular recognition, to understand the morphology and macro-assembly processing strategies for the targeted design of superlubricants.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0211/SBAD/0121},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Wieszczycka2022a,

title = {Novel Mesoporous Organosilicas with Task Ionic Liquids: Properties and High Adsorption Performance for Pb(II)},

author = {Karolina Wieszczycka and Kinga Filipowiak and Patrycja Dudzińska and Marek Nowicki and Katarzyna Siwińska-Ciesielczyk and Teofil Jesionowski},

doi = {10.3390/molecules27041405},

issn = {14203049},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Molecules},

volume = {27},

number = {4},

pages = {1405(18)},

abstract = {Removal of toxic contaminants such as Pb(II) from waste solutions is environmentally requested. Therefore, in this paper, for potential novel sorbents, mesoporous ionic liquid-functionalized silicas were synthesized and tested for the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions. The successful synthesis of the adsorbents was proved by nuclear magnetic resonance (29 Si and13 C NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and elemental analysis. The structural and textural properties were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and low-temperature N2 sorption, and the result showed that the applied procedure made it possible to obtain highly ordered particles with a two-dimensional mesostructure. The effects of several parameters including initial pH, contact time, adsorption temperature, and Pb(II) concentration were studied in detail and were discussed to evaluate the adsorption properties of the fabricated materials towards Pb(II). The obtained results confirmed a very high potential of the sorbents; however, the adsorption properties depend on the structure and amounts of the functional group onto fabricated materials. The sample ILS-Ox3-40 showed fast kinetics (equilibrium reached within 10 min) and capacity of 172 mg/g, and that makes it a promising sorbent for the cleanup of water contaminated by lead. It was also indicated that, regardless on structure of the tested materials, the Pb(II) removal was spontaneous and exothermic. The fabricated mesoporous silicas exhibited that they were easy to regenerate and had excellent reusability.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Kluzik2022,

title = {Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy as alternative methods of early identification of pathogens causing catheter-related bloodstream infections of patients in ICU},

author = {Anna Kluzik and Hanna Tomczak and Marek Nowicki and Tomasz Koszel and Alicja Bartkowska-Sniatkowska and Krzysztof Kusza and Malgorzata Grzeskowiak},

doi = {10.2478/ahem-2022-0010},

issn = {17322693},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Postepy Higieny i Medycyny Doswiadczalnej},

volume = {76},

number = {1},

pages = {157--164},

abstract = {Introduction. Vascular catheters are an indispensable element of the therapy of patients in intensive care. Their use is associated with the possibility of complications, including infectious. According to various sources, the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) ranges from 0.1 to 22.7 per 1,000 catheter days. Materials and Methods. The central venous catheter tip culture samples were collected from 24 patients with suspected catheter-related bloodstream infection, from three intensive care units (ICUs). The results of microscopic examinations: atomic force microscope (AFM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were compared with the results of microbiological analysis of the central venous catheter tip and blood collected from the catheter. Results. The microscopic examination and microbiological analysis of both the blood and central venous catheter samples confirmed the presence of microorganisms in 16 cases (double positive result). Our study was conducted in a short period of time (up to 6 hours) and it gave an initial answer to the question about the type of microorganisms colonising the central venous catheter. In one patient the infection was not caused by removal of the central venous catheter. However, not all results were fully consistent within the two diagnostic methods. The colonisation of the central venous catheter with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis was microbiologically confirmed, but it was not confirmed by the microscopic examination of the sample collected from patient No. 20. However, the examination enabled preliminary assessment of the microorganism colonising the catheter, which may have caused the blood infection. It cannot be ruled out that Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacilli were grown on the catheter that came into contact with blood from another source of infection, e.g. the respiratory, nervous or urinary systems. Information on the presence of cocci-shaped bacteria forming characteristic clusters or rods may enable initial diagnosis of catheter-related bloodstream infection if it is accompanied by typical clinical symptoms. Alternative diagnostics also provides valuable information on the presence of biofilm, which is a factor hindering the body's response to infection and penetration of antibiotics. Conclusions. Our pilot study presents new diagnostic possibilities of microscopic imaging with the atomic force microscope (AFM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to identify pathogens on routinely used disposable medical devices, such as the central venous catheter. On the other hand, this range of diagnostics reveals the potential to constantly improve medical materials which come into direct contact with patients' tissues. It is important to create a database of microscopic images, which would be a repeatable diagnostic pattern and fully correlated with the results of microbiological analysis, because it would facilitate initial quick diagnosis of a potential CRBSI.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Zhezhera2022,

title = {Efficient near-infrared quantum cutting by cooperative energy transfer in Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ phosphors},

author = {Taras Zhezhera and Paweł Gluchowski and Marek Nowicki and Maciej Chrunik and Andrzej Majchrowski and Katarzyna M. Kosyl and Dobrosława Kasprowicz},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-021-06642-2},

doi = {10.1007/s10853-021-06642-2},

issn = {15734803},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Materials Science},

volume = {57},

number = {1},

pages = {185--203},

publisher = {Springer US},

abstract = {Abstract: An efficient near-infrared quantum cutting process by cooperative down-conversion of active Bi3+ and Nd3+ ions was demonstrated in Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ phosphors. In particular, the near-infrared emission of Nd3+ ions enhanced by Bi3+ ions of a series of novel Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ microcrystalline powders doped with Nd3+ ions in various concentrations was investigated. In order to investigate the luminescent properties of BTBO:Nd3+ powders, the excitation and emission spectra and the fluorescence decay time were measured and analyzed. In particular, the emission of Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ at 890 and 1064 nm was excited at 327 nm (via energy transfer from Bi3+ ions) and at 586.4 nm (directly by Nd3+ ions). The highest intensity emission bands in near-infrared were detected in the spectra of Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ doped with 5.0 and 0.5 at.% of Nd3+ ions upon excitation in ultraviolet and visible spectral range, respectively. The fluorescence decay lifetime monitored at 1064 nm for Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ powders shows the single- or double-exponential character depending on the concentrations of Nd3+ ions. The possible mechanisms of energy relaxation after excitation Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ powders in ultraviolet or visible spectral range were discussed. The investigated Bi3TeBO9:Nd3+ phosphors efficiently concentrate the ultraviolet/visible radiation in the near-infrared spectral range and can be potentially used as effective spectral converters.



Funding from the Ministry of Education and Science (Poland), Project No. 0511/SBAD/2151

},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Dychalska2022,

title = {The effect of UV and thermally induced oxidation on the surface and structural properties of CVD diamond layers with different grain sizes},

author = {Anna Dychalska and Marek Trzcinski and Kazimierz Fabisiak and Kazimierz Paprocki and Wojciech Koczorowski and Szymon Łoś and Mirosław Szybowicz},

doi = {10.1016/j.diamond.2021.108739},

issn = {09259635},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Diamond and Related Materials},

volume = {121},

number = {November 2021},

pages = {108739(13)},

abstract = {This work is a continuation of previously reported research regarding the effects of hydrogen treatment on the structural properties of polycrystalline CVD diamond layers with different grain sizes [1]. Here, we report studies of the hydrogenated diamond layers which were oxidized in two steps, first by UV irradiation in air and then by annealing at 300 °C in air. After each process step, the structural and surface properties of diamond layers were monitored by Raman spectroscopy, SEM, XPS, and CA (contact angle) measurements. The reported study investigates the impact of the UV ozone oxidation and the low-temperature thermal oxidation on the chemical composition, morphology of diamond surface, and structural properties of the diamond layer. This work shows that microcrystalline and nanocrystalline diamond layers behave differently upon oxidation. In general, the microcrystalline samples were more readily oxidized during UV treatment. This might be attributed to both, the diamond grain sizes, and the less ordered form of the amorphous carbon phase present in those samples. Also, the structural studies revealed that a slight ordering of amorphous carbon phase in the microcrystalline sample with the biggest diamond grains occurred for both oxidation processes, implicating the graphitization of the sp2/sp3 phase.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Wieszczycka2022b,

title = {Poly(vinylbenzyl Pyridinium Salts) as Novel Sorbents for Hazardous Metals Ions Removal},

author = {Karolina Wieszczycka and Kinga Filipowiak and Aneta Lewandowska and Agnieszka Marcinkowska and Marek Nowicki},

doi = {doi.org/10.3390/molecules27051723},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Molecules},

volume = {27},

number = {05},

pages = {1723(18)},

abstract = {Novel efficient complexing resins—poly(vinylbenzyl pyridinium salts) fabricated through poly(vinylbenzyl halogene-co-divinylbenzene) quaternization of N-decyloxy-1-(pyridin-3-yl)ethaneimine and N-decyloxy-1-(pyridin-4-yl)ethaneimine—were tested as adsorbents of Pb(II), Cd(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Ni(II) from aqueous solutions. The structure of these materials was established by 13C CP-MAS NMR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, as well as thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses. The textural properties were determined using scanning electron microscopy and low-temperature N2 sorption. Based on the conducted sorption studies, it was shown that the uptake behavior of the metal ions towards novel resins depended on the type of functionalities, contact time, pH, metal concentrations, and the resin dosage. The Langmuir model was investigated to be the best one for fitting isothermal adsorption equilibrium data, and the corresponding adsorption capacities were predicted to be 296.4, 201.8, 83.8, 38.1, and 39.3 mg/g for Pb(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Cu(II), and Ni(II), respectively. These results confirmed that owing to the presence of the functional pyridinium groups, the resins demonstrated proficient metal ion removal capacities. Furthermore, VBBr-D4EI could be successfully used for the selective uptake of Pb(II) from wastewater. It was also shown that the novel resins can be regenerated without significant loss of their sorption capacity},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{LoConte2022,

title = {Coexistence of antiferromagnetism and superconductivity in Mn/Nb(110)},

author = {Roberto Lo Conte and Maciej Bazarnik and Krisztián Palotás and Levente Rózsa and László Szunyogh and André Kubetzka and Kirsten Von Bergmann and Roland Wiesendanger},

doi = {10.1103/PhysRevB.105.L100406},

issn = {24699969},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-01-01},

urldate = {2022-01-01},

journal = {Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics},

volume = {105},

number = {10},

pages = {L100406(6)},

publisher = {American Physical Society},

abstract = {We report on the structural, magnetic, and superconducting properties of single and double atomic layers of Mn on a clean and unreconstructed Nb(110) substrate. Low-temperature scanning tunneling spectroscopy measurements reveal a proximity-induced superconducting state and in-gap Yu-Shiba-Rusinov bands in the Mn thin films, which are found to grow pseudomorphically on the Nb surface. Spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy measurements reveal a c(2×2) antiferromagnetic (AFM) order in the Mn layers, with an out-of-plane spin orientation. First-principles density functional theory calculations confirm the experimentally observed magnetic state, which is understood as the consequence of a strong intralayer and interlayer nearest-neighbor AFM exchange coupling. These results are expected to be of importance for the design of superconducting AFM spintronic systems and quantum information technologies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Szary2021,

title = {The impact of partial H intercalation on the quasi-free-standing properties of graphene on SiC(0001)},

author = {Maciej J. Szary and Semir El-Ahmar and Tymoteusz Ciuk},

doi = {10.1016/j.apsusc.2020.148668},

issn = {01694332},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Applied Surface Science},

volume = {541},

pages = {148668(9)},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Graphene has attracted huge attention due to its unique electronic properties, however, when supported those are significantly dependent on the interface interactions. One of the methods of decoupling graphene sheets from a substrate is hydrogen intercalation, which has been shown to produce quasi-free-standing (QFS) layers on a SiC(0001) surface. Still, the effects of incomplete H termination of SiC remain mostly unknown. This work investigates, employing density functional theory calculations, the impact of partial termination on the structural, and electronic properties of graphene. It is predicted that interfaces with partially damaged H layer or produced under a lower technological standard could still benefit from the intrinsic, however, quantitatively reduced, properties of QFS graphene.



Funding from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in Poland within project realized at Faculty of Material Science and Technical Physics, Poznan University of Technology.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Ilieva-Makulec2021,

title = {Medium-term response of the natural grassland soil biota to multiwalled carbon nanotube contamination},

author = {Krassimira Ilieva-Makulec and Anna Augustyniuk-Kram and Izabella Olejniczak and Kamil Karaban and Paweł Boniecki and Marek Nowicki and Tomasz Runka and Andrzej Kulczycki and Jarosław Kałużny},

doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146392},

issn = {18791026},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Science of the Total Environment},

volume = {779},

pages = {146392(11)},

abstract = {Although the soil environment can potentially be exposed to contamination by carbon nanotubes (CNT), its impact on soil biology is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of the multiwalled CNT (MWCNT) contamination on different groups of soil organisms (microbial, micro- and mesofaunal communities) as well as the soil enzyme activity. The experimental mesocosms included the intact soil cores that were collected from a natural grassland. The MWCNTs that were pristine (pCNTs) and functionalised (fCNTs) at a concentration of 500 $mu$g g^(−1) of soil were applied in the form of water suspensions to the surface of the mesocosms, while ensuring the soil was not mixed after the treatment. Soil samples were taken at 3, 6, and 15 weeks after CNT application. The CNT soil contamination highlighted differences in the community dynamics within the studied groups when compared to the control (non-contaminated soil). Among the faunal groups, nematodes were found to be more sensitive to the CNT impact than mites. The most pronounced response of the nematodes was observed in the subsoil at week 6, when their numbers were 3- (pCNTs) and 4-fold (fCNTs) higher than the control mesocosms. Both types of CNTs influenced the relative abundance of the bacterial- and hyphal-feeding nematodes, where pCNTs significantly and negatively affected the predatory nematodes. Moreover, CNTs temporarily, but significantly, decreased the diversity of the nematode communities. In addition, the values of the nematode Structure Index confirmed a strong transitional disturbance effect of CNTs in the soil food web, while the Channel Index in the pCNTs indicated an increasing share of fungi in the decomposition pathway. Hence, we can infer that although the impact of CNTs seems to be temporary, the shifts in the soil community abundance and structure that it induced may have long-term consequences for soil functioning, including nutrient cycling.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Wierzbicka2021,

title = {The friction of structurally modified isotactic polypropylene},

author = {Natalia Wierzbicka and Tomasz Sterzyński and Marek Nowicki},

doi = {10.3390/ma14237462},

issn = {19961944},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Materials},

volume = {14},

number = {23},

pages = {7462(18)},

abstract = {The purpose of studies was to analyse an impact of heterogeneous nucleation of modified isotactic polypropylene (iPP) on its tribological properties. The iPP injection molded samples, produced by mold temperature of 20 and 70◦ C, were modified with compositions of two nucleating agents (NA's), DMDBS creating $alpha$-form and mixture of pimelic acid with calcium stearate (PACS) forming $beta$–phase of iPP, with a total content 0.2 wt.% of NA's. A polymorphic character of iPP, with both, monoclinic ($alpha$) and pseudo-hexagonal ($beta$) crystalline structures, depending on the NA's ratio, was verified. The morphology observation, DSC, hardness and tribological measurements as test in reciprocating motion with “pin on flat” method, were realized, followed by microscopic observation (confocal and SEM) of the friction patch track. It was found that Shore hardness rises along with DMBDS content, independent on mold temperature. The friction coefficient (COF) depends on NA's content and forming temperature—for upper mold temperature (70◦ C), its value is higher and more divergently related to NA's composition, what is not the case by 20◦ C mold temperature. The height of friction scratches and the width of patch tracks due to its plastic deformation, as detected by confocal microscopy, are related to heterogeneous nucleation modified structure of iPP.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Filipowiak2021,

title = {Reduction-adsorption of chromium(VI) by using IL-imprinted resin -innovative solution for water purification},

author = {Kinga Filipowiak and Karolina Wieszczycka and Tomasz Buchwald and Marek Nowicki and Grzegorz Wójcik and Przemysław Aksamitowski and Katarzyna Staszak},

doi = {10.1016/j.molliq.2021.116977},

issn = {01677322},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Molecular Liquids},

volume = {343},

pages = {116977(15)},

publisher = {Elsevier B.V.},

abstract = {Novel sorbents (poly(vinylbenzyl chloride-co-divinylbenzene) functionalized with Ionic Liquids precursors- hydrophobic and hydrophilic 3- and 4-pyridineketone and oxime were prepared for application to chromium removal. The fabricated materials were extensively characterized (surface morphology, FT-IR, NMR, Raman, microscopy, XPS, and wettability). The efficiency of functionalization of poly(vinylbenzyl chloride-co-divinylbenzene was demonstrated not only in the process of adsorption of chromium(VI), but also in its reduction to a less toxic form of trivalent ions. I was shown that the efficiencies of both processes depended on the time, pH of the aqueous phase and the initial concentration of Cr(VI). At pH of 0 the cumulative chromium removal was preferable (removal almost 1200 mg of Cr) with the reduction as the dominant process. At pH of 3.5 and higher only adsorption was observed with the maximum capacity of 144.4 mg/g. The conducted analytical techniques, such as Raman and XPS, enabled to determine the mechanism of the sorption and the surface Cr(VI) reduction that oxidize water to O2. The studies indicated that this research direction was forward-looking and fits in with the trends of a sustainable development- simultaneous reduction and adsorption of chromium from wastewater.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Priebe2021,

title = {Mechanisms of Fluorine-Induced Separation of Mass Interference during TOF-SIMS Analysis},

author = {Agnieszka Priebe and Emese Huszar and Marek Nowicki and Laszlo Pethö and Johann Michler},

doi = {10.1021/acs.analchem.1c01661},

issn = {15206882},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Analytical Chemistry},

volume = {93},

number = {29},

pages = {10261--10271},

abstract = {Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) is one of very few analytical techniques allowing sample chemical structure to be characterized in three-dimensional (3D) with nanometer resolution. Due to the excellent sensitivity in the order of ppm-ppb and capability of detecting all ionized elements and molecules, TOF-SIMS finds many applications for analyzing nanoparticle-containing systems and thin films used in microdevices for new energy applications, microelectronics, and biomedicine. However, one of the main drawbacks of this technique is potential mass interference between ions having the same or similar masses, which can lead to data misinterpretation. In this work, we present that this problem can be easily solved by delivering fluorine gas to a sample surface during TOF-SIMS analysis and we propose mechanisms driving this phenomenon. Our comprehensive studies, conducted on complex thin films made of highly mass-interfering elements, show that fluorine modifies the ionization process, leading to element-specific changes of ion yields (which can vary by several orders of magnitude), and affects the efficiency of metal hydride and oxide formation. In conjunction, these two effects can efficiently induce separation of mass interference, providing more representative TOF-SIMS data with respect to the sample composition and significant enhancement of chemical image resolution. Consequently, this can improve the chemical characterization of complex multilayers in nanoscale.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Pocienniczak2021,

title = {A green approach for hybrid material preparation based on carbon nanotubes/lignosulfonate decorated with silver nanostructures for electrocatalytic sensing of H2O2},

author = {Patrycja Płócienniczak and Tomasz Rcebiś and Marek Nowicki and Grzegorz Milczarek},

doi = {10.1016/j.jelechem.2020.114896},

issn = {15726657},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry},

volume = {880},

pages = {114896(10)},

abstract = {We present a green and simple approach for the fabrication of multi-walled carbon nanotubes decorated with silver nanoparticles (MWCNT/LS/NAg) via lignosulfonate assisted synthesis. Due to reducing and stabilizing properties of lignosulfonate, silver nanoparticles were produced in a facile synthetic route without the addition of any reductant or toxic solvents. The existence of silver nanoparticles was confirmed through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was employed to investigate the morphologies and structures of prepared functional nanomaterials. Cyclic voltammograms of the MWCNT/LS/NAg nanomaterial presented, revealed well-defined and sharp redox peaks recorded in phosphate buffer (pH = 7.4) corresponding to silver nanoparticles electroactivity. The obtained data proved that the hybrid material exhibits persistent reversible redox behavior. The hybrid nanomaterial possesses strong electrocatalytic properties toward hydrogen peroxide reduction. Based on the electrocatalytic properties of the material, the amperometric detection of H2O2 at −0.2 V demonstrated a wide linear range of 6.00–486 $mu$M. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 1.169 $mu$M and 3.543 $mu$M, respectively. Substantial electrochemical performance shows the proposed material as a promising electrochemical sensing platform for the detection of hydrogen peroxide.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Dychalska2021,

title = {The effect of surface treatment on structural properties of cvd diamond layers with different grain sizes studied by raman spectroscopy},

author = {Anna Dychalska and Wojciech Koczorowski and Marek Trzcinski and Lidia Mosińska and Mirosław Szybowicz},

doi = {10.3390/ma14051301},

issn = {19961944},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Materials},

volume = {14},

number = {5},

pages = {1301(21)},

abstract = {Extensive Raman spectroscopy studies combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements were performed to investigate structural and chemical changes in diamond layers deposited by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) upon post‐growth treatment with hydrogen. The aim of this study is to characterize the changes in micro‐structural properties of diamond layers with different grain sizes and different contents of sp2 carbon phase. Hydrogenation or oxidization of diamond layer surface is often performed to modify its properties; however, it can also strongly affect the surface structure. In this study, the impact of hydrogenation on the structure of diamond layer surface and its chemical composition is investigated. Owing to their polycrystalline nature, the structural properties of CVD diamond layers can strongly differ within the same layer. Therefore, in this project, in order to compare the results before and after hydrogen treatment, the diamond layers are subjected to Raman spectroscopy studies in the vicinity of a T‐shape marker fabricated on the surface of each diamond layer studied.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Filipowiak2021a,

title = {Novel polymer sorbents with imprinted task-specific ionic liquids for metal removal},

author = {Kinga Filipowiak and Patrycja Dudzińska and Karolina Wieszczycka and Tomasz Buchwald and Marek Nowicki and Aneta Lewandowska and Agnieszka Marcinkowska},

doi = {10.3390/ma14175008},

issn = {19961944},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Materials},

volume = {14},

number = {17},

pages = {5008(17)},

abstract = {In this paper, the potential of novel polymer sorbents with the imprinted IL-functional group for the removal of Cu(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from aqueous solutions was investigated by batch mode. The sorbents were fabricated by direct reaction of the prepared polymer matrix (poly(vinylbenzyl chloride-divinylbenzene), VBC, and poly(vinylbenzyl bromide-divinylbenzene), VBBr) with 1-(3-or 4-pyridyl)undecan-1-one and oxime of 1-(3-or 4-pyridyl)undecan-1-one. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman Spectroscopy (Raman), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques were used to show functionality and stability of the sorbents. The materials were also characterized by contact-angle goniometry, X-rayphotoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Zeta potential analysis. The removal of Cd(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) was monitored and optimized under the influence of several operational controlling conditions and factors such as pH, shaking time, temperature, initial metal ions concentration, and counter-ions at the functional group. The results obtained confirmed the very high potential of the sorbents; however, the properties depend on the structure of the functional group. The tested sorbents showed fast kinetics, significant capacity at 25◦C (84 mg/g for the Zn(II) sorption with VBC-Ox4.10, 63 mg/g for the Cd(II) sorption with VBBr-Ox3.10, and 69 mg/g for the Cu(II) sorption with VBC-K3.10), and temperature dependence (even 100% increase in capacity values at 45◦C). The selected sorbent can be regenerated without a significant decrease in the metal removal efficiency.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Januszewski2021,

title = {Synthesis and Properties of Epoxy Resin Modified with Novel Reactive Liquid Rubber-Based Systems},

author = {Rafał Januszewski and Michał Dutkiewicz and Marek Nowicki and Mariusz Szołyga and Ireneusz Kownacki},

doi = {10.1021/acs.iecr.0c05781},

issn = {15205045},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

urldate = {2021-01-01},

journal = {Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research},

volume = {60},

number = {5},

pages = {2178--2186},

abstract = {In this work, the influence of the new epoxy-containing liquid rubber-based modifiers on the thermal and mechanical properties of the cured epoxy resins was investigated. The epoxy-functional polybutadienes obtained via the conventional epoxidation reaction or catalytic hydrosilylation have been successfully applied for modification of commercially available epoxy resin to modulate its mechanical properties. Different locations of oxirane rings in the polybutadiene chains revealed a significant impact of the rubber-based modifier structure on the thermal and mechanical properties of cured resins.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Kauzny2020,

title = {Reducing friction and engine vibrations with trace amounts of carbon nanotubes in the lubricating oil},

author = {Jarosław Kałużny and Marek Waligórski and Grzegorz M. Szymański and Jerzy Merkisz and Jacek Różański and Marek Nowicki and Mohanad Al Karawi and Krzysztof Kempa},

doi = {10.1016/j.triboint.2020.106484},

issn = {0301679X},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-11-01},

urldate = {2020-11-01},

journal = {Tribology International},

volume = {151},

pages = {106484(12)},

abstract = {Improved lubrication parameters of lubricating oils due to the addition of carbon nanotubes (CNT) have been demonstrated in the past. This benefit, however, is short-lived due to self-induced re-agglomeration of CNTs in large concentrations in the oil. In this work the authors investigate the friction effects at trace amounts of CNT (as low as 0.03%). At such level the re-agglomeration effects are efficiently suppressed. Surprisingly, at such extreme low CNT concentration levels, a relatively large engine friction reduction of 6% was still observed. Moreover, a very strong vibration reduction of up to 30% was measured in the fired engine test. Full understanding of these results will require extensions/revisions of the existing models, which will pave the way to a new class of improved lubricants.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Elsebach2020,

title = {In Situ Synthesis of Metal-Salophene Complexes on Intercalated Graphene},

author = {Micha Elsebach and Emil Sierda and Julia J. Goedecke and Luca Bignardi and Michał Hermanowicz and Michael Rohde and Roland Wiesendanger and MacIej Bazarnik},

doi = {10.1021/acs.jpcc.9b08943},

issn = {19327455},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry C},

volume = {124},

number = {7},

pages = {4279--4287},

abstract = {On-surface metalation provides a tool to vary magnetic and electronic properties of metal-organic complexes and produces clean samples of the desired product. We used this technique to metalate 5,5′-dibromosalophene with the 3d transition metals Co, Fe, and Cr on Co-intercalated graphene grown on Ir(111). The metalation process was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electronic structure of the obtained salophene complexes was investigated using a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy with density functional theory calculations. XPS data show that deposition of the transition metals at 398 K causes the metal atoms to interact with the molecules, while higher temperatures are needed to complete the reaction. Furthermore, we are able to distinguish the three different metal-organic complexes by their electronic structure.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Szoyga2020,

title = {Phosphorus-containing silsesquioxane derivatives as additive or reactive components of epoxy resins},

author = {Mariusz Szołyga and Michał Dutkiewicz and Marek Nowicki and Kamila Sałasińska and Maciej Celiński and Bogdan Marciniec},

doi = {10.3390/ma13235373},

issn = {19961944},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Materials},

volume = {13},

number = {23},

pages = {1--23},

abstract = {Two phosphorus-containing cage-like silsesquioxane derivatives were synthesized as reactive or additive flame retardants for epoxy resin. The silsesquioxanes were obtained via an epoxide ring-opening reaction using a 10-hydroxy-9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPA). In one derivative containing in its structure 4 glycidoxypropyl and 4 phosphate groups, denoted as 4P4GS, only half of the epoxy rings was reacted with phosphate to obtain a reactive additive, while in the second derivative containing 8 phosphate groups, denoted as 8PS, all epoxy groups were converted, thus an additive modifier was obtained. The ilsesquioxanes containing phosphorus atoms and the reactive phosphorus-free silsesquioxane derivative (octakis[(3-glycidoxypropyl)dimethylsiloxy]octasilsesquioxane (8GS)) were used to prepare hybrid materials based on epoxy resin. To compare the impact of the structure of silsesquioxane derivatives on the properties of hybrid materials, a number of samples containing 1, 5, and 10% of the modifiers making a series of epoxy materials containing additive or reactive modifiers, were obtained. The modified epoxies were studied using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), nanoindentation, water contact angle, and cone calorimetry tests to assess the effects of the modifier structure on the physicochemical properties of the investigated materials.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nowak2020,

title = {A comprehensive study of structural and optical properties of ZnO bulk crystals and polycrystalline films grown by sol-gel method},

author = {Ewelina Nowak and Mirosław Szybowicz and Alicja Stachowiak and Wojciech Koczorowski and Detlev Schulz and Kazimierz Paprocki and Kazimierz Fabisiak and Szymon Los},

doi = {10.1007/s00339-020-03711-2},

issn = {14320630},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Applied Physics A: Materials Science and Processing},

volume = {126},

number = {7},

pages = {522(12)},

publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg},

abstract = {The presented article concerns the comparison between two different zinc-oxide structures - bulk crystals and polycrystalline thin films. Bulk crystals were grown by a Bridgman method. For thin-film production, a sol-gel spin-coated method was chosen. A part of thin layers samples was annealed in 600 oC to induce recrystallization. The morphological and structural properties of all samples were investigated using various microscopy techniques, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. Confocal and scanning electron microscopy, as well as XRD, was used to estimate the influence of the recrystallization process on the morphology of the samples. The Raman vibrations in different scattering geometries were determined using polarized Raman spectra. What is more, in the case of the non-annealed sol-gel layer, the localized reorientation of crystallites was observed, using Raman microscopy. The morphology of the samples was compared to their optical properties, which were investigated by exploiting UV-Vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Absorption spectroscopy allowed us to estimate the energy bandgap for different types of ZnO layers and to compare the values obtained for the ZnO crystal structure obtained by the Bridgman method. The photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy were used to determine the possible defects correlated with the growth conditions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Wieszczycka2020,

title = {Microcapsules containing task-specific ionic liquids for Zn(II) and Cu(II) recovery from dilute aqueous solutions},

author = {Karolina Wieszczycka and Kinga Filipowiak and Tomasz Buchwald and Marek Nowicki},

doi = {10.1016/j.seppur.2020.117155},

issn = {18733794},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Separation and Purification Technology},

volume = {250},

number = {May},

pages = {117155(18)},

publisher = {Elsevier},

abstract = {In the presented studies, ionic liquids, 1-propyl-3-undecanoylpyridinium bromide and 1-propyl-3-undecanoylpyridinium chloride, were successfully encapsulated. The sorbents were prepared by the suspension copolymerisation of styrene and divinylbenzene with 14–19% participation of the ionic liquids. The resulting microcapsules were characterized by various techniques such as FT-IR, Raman, and TGA. The microscopy analysis showed that the morphologies of the prepared microcapsules were spherical with a clearly porous structure, in which the pores in the surface had diameter up to 8.5 $mu$m. The metals removal with the microcapsules was affected by the morphology of microcapsules, structure of the encapsulated ionic liquid, as well as the pH, shaking time, concentration of metals ions, NaCl or HCl, and temperature of the process. The results analysis indicated that binding of Zn(II) and Cu(II) was mainly controlled by chemisorption with strong interaction metal-extractant. The maximum sorption capacity was 151 and 74 mg Cu(II) and Zn(II), respectively per gram of the sorbent. Both metals can be separated from the aqueous solutions containing NaCl, and after that desorbed with diluted HCl solutions, without loss in the adsorption capacity.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Mania2020,

title = {Nanohardness and elasticity of cell walls of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) juvenile and mature wood},

author = {Przemysław Mania and Marek Nowicki},

doi = {10.24425/bpasts.2020.134645},

issn = {23001917},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Bulletin of the Polish Academy of Sciences: Technical Sciences},

volume = {68},

number = {4},

pages = {1237--1241},

abstract = {The aim of this study was to determine the hardness and reduced modulus of elasticity of juvenile wood of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) using the nanoindentation method, and then to compare the results obtained with those of mature wood. The hardness of juvenile pine wood determined by means of the nanoindentation method was 0.444 GPa while for mature wood it was 0.474 GPa. Statistically significant differences between the values were found. The reduced modulus of elasticity in juvenile wood was 14.0 GPa and 16.4 GPa in mature wood. Thus, the hardness values obtained were about 7% higher, while the modulus of elasticity was 17% higher in mature wood. All determinations were made in the S2-layer of the secondary cell wall.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Sandomierski2020,

title = {Calcium forms of zeolites A and X as fillers in dental restorative materials with remineralizing potential},

author = {Mariusz Sandomierski and Zuzanna Buchwald and Wojciech Koczorowski and Adam Voelkel},

doi = {10.1016/j.micromeso.2019.109899},

issn = {13871811},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Microporous and Mesoporous Materials},

volume = {294},

number = {October 2019},

pages = {109899(11)},

publisher = {Elsevier Inc.},

abstract = {Zeolites A- and X-type were synthesized and subjected to the ion exchange to obtain their calcium forms which were further impregnated with methacrylic acid as bonding agent to improve the bonding between these zeolite fillers and components of methacrylic matrix in a final composites. The structure of synthesized zeolites, as well as impregnation efficiency, were confirmed by several analytical methods. The ability to release calcium ions, which are remineralizing agents, was confirmed after incubation of zeolite samples in saline. On the basis of these inorganic fillers a series of methacrylic photopolymerizable composites with potential dental applications were prepared and examined. Typical properties of these composites, such as depth of cure, mass stability and mechanical properties were examined. Their ability to release remineralizing calcium ions was also checked. All examined properties were dependent on the composition of the materials, i.e. the type of a filler, its synthesis method and surface impregnation. Obtained results showed that prepared zeolite fillers are beneficial for dental composites with remineralizing potential.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Januszewski2020,

title = {Synthesis and properties of hybrid materials obtained via additive cross-linking of liquid polybutadiene rubber with H-Si containing reagents},

author = {Rafał Januszewski and Michał Dutkiewicz and Marek Nowicki and Ireneusz Kownacki},

doi = {10.1016/j.polymertesting.2020.106516},

issn = {01429418},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

urldate = {2020-01-01},

journal = {Polymer Testing},

volume = {87},

pages = {106516(8)},

abstract = {Herein, we present the results describing the synthesis and thermal, mechanical and surface properties of liquid polybutadiene rubber cross-linked with organosilicon reactants. The differences in the structure of cross-linking agents, as well as a number of reactive H-Si species, have a significant impact on the above-mentioned properties of synthesized via Rh(I) catalyzed additive cross-linking of hybrid organic-inorganic coatings.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Kauzny2019,

title = {Biological activity of carbon nanoparticles produced in combustion process},

author = {Jarosław Kałużny and Natalia Idaszewska and Tomasz Runka and Adam Piasecki and Marek Nowicki and Jerzy Merkisz},

doi = {10.19206/ce-2019-445},

issn = {2300-9896},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Combustion Engines},

volume = {179},

number = {4},

pages = {269--273},

abstract = {In the recent years industrial applications of carbon allotropes such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene have been tested extensively, thus justifying research on the environmental impact these materials have. In the current paper we compare EDS spectroscopy results of a cabin filter used in a car to a filter used in an air purifier inside a residential space. The contaminants adsorbed on the carbon nanoparticles trapped in both types of filters allows for determining of their source of origin demonstrating clearly the dominant role of non-road emissions in Poland. Finally we present the experimental study on the growth of plants on substrates intentionally enriched with CNTs.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{El-Ahmar2019,

title = {Planar configuration of extraordinary magnetoresistance for 2D-material-based magnetic field sensors},

author = {Semir El-Ahmar and Wojciech Koczorowski and Artur A. Poźniak and Piotr Kuświk and Marta Przychodnia and Jacek Dembowiak and Włodzimierz Strupiński},

doi = {10.1016/j.sna.2019.07.016},

issn = {09244247},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Sensors and Actuators, A: Physical},

volume = {296},

pages = {249--253},

abstract = {Nanoscale-resolution magnetic field sensing plays a significant role in fundamental research in a wide range of fields, from material science to biology. Magnetoresistors in particular offer simplicity of construction and easy adaptation for fabrication based on two-dimensional materials, together with the ability to detect small and medium magnetic fields. Among the wide range of magnetoresistance effects, extraordinary magnetoresistance is unique because it does not require a magnetic material as part of its structure, which may be advantageous in certain applications. In this paper we demonstrate that a recently proposed planar configuration of extraordinary magnetoresistance is naturally suited to the fabrication of devices based on two-dimensional materials. Several operating magnetoresistors have been made for this purpose, using epitaxial mono- and bilayer graphene as well as Bi2Se3 microflakes. Besides the implementation of the extraordinary magnetoresistance in a planar configuration, we demonstrate experimentally the consequences of geometry optimization for future applications. Using the finite element method to simulate the extraordinary magnetoresistance effect in a specific hybrid structure containing a 2D sheet, our research goes beyond the experimental framework, and the efficiency of the applied optimization method can be compared to the best results achieved so far in the field.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Jankowski2019,

title = {Toward the development of an InSb-based Neutron-resistant Hall sensor},

author = {Jakub Jankowski and Rafał Prokopowicz and Krzysztof Pytel and Semir El-Ahmar},

doi = {DOI: 10.1109/TNS.2019.2912720},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {IEEE Transactions on nuclear science},

volume = {66},

number = {6},

pages = {926--931},

abstract = {We describe a study concerning two irradiation series of InSb thin films in the form of Hall structures, using the natural neutron spectrum of a thermal-type fission reactor. We used mono- and polycrystalline InSb thin films with various levels of donor doping. The range of electron concentration values of the samples (from 10^16 to 10^18 cm^(−3)) allowed us to study the impact of predominant thermal neutrons on various InSb structures. Preirradiation long-term annealing of the samples at high temperatures ensured the thermal stabilization of the electrical parameters and made it possible to assess only defects introduced by neutrons in postirradiation heat treatments, with- out the influence of postevaporation defects. Neutron fluences of 8.7×10^17 cm^(−2) and 1.2×10^18 cm^(−2) were applied sequentially, temperatures was performed after each irradiation process to and the total fluence was above 2×10^18 cm^(−2). Annealing at high estimate the quantity of donors created and to remove defects arising in the InSb structure. The results demonstrate the possibility of application of the InSb thin film in neutron-resistant Hall sensor (NRHS) for modern technological settings: fusion and fission reactors, particle accelerators, cosmic, and other scientific research.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Hermanowicz2019,

title = {Stable bismuth sub-monolayer termination of Bi2Se3},

author = {Michał Hermanowicz and Wojciech Koczorowski and Maciej Bazarnik and Marek Kopciuszyński and Ryszard Zdyb and Andrzej Materna and A Hruban and Ryszard Czajka and Marian W. Radny},

doi = {10.1016/j.apsusc.2019.01.011},

issn = {01694332},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Applied Surface Science},

volume = {476},

pages = {701--705},

abstract = {Surface electronic properties of Bi2Se3 and Bi2Te3 topological insulators are known to evolve with varying surface termination. In this work, the (1 1 1) surface of Bi2Se3 has been studied with a comprehensive combination of experimental and computational (density functional theory) methods. It has been demonstrated that with proper preparation conditions the system can be forced into a new stable surface termination – a sub-monolayer of bismuth acquired through selective Se desorption – which has not been explored yet.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Bazarnik2019,

title = {Atomically resolved magnetic structure of a Gd-Au surface alloy},

author = {Maciej Bazarnik and Mikel Abadía and Jens Brede and Michał Hermanowicz and Emil Sierda and Micha Elsebach and Torben Hänke and Roland Wiesendanger},

doi = {10.1103/PhysRevB.99.174419},

issn = {2469-9950},

year  = {2019},

date = {2019-01-01},

urldate = {2019-01-01},

journal = {Physical Review B},

volume = {99},

number = {17},

pages = {174419},

publisher = {American Physical Society},

abstract = {The magnetic structure of a monolayer-thick GdAu2 surface alloy on Au(111) has been investigated down to the atomic level by spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy. Spin-resolved tunneling spectroscopy combined with density-functional theory calculations reveal the local spin polarization of both Gd and Au atomic sites within the surface alloy. Moreover, the impact of dislocation lines on the atomic-scale magnetic structure as well as on the local coercive field strength is demonstrated.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}