Multifunctional ZnO nanostructures: from material growth to novel applications

This chapter describes the results of developing superhydrophobic coatings using porous ZnO nanostructures impregnated metal stearates and their applications. The porous ZnO nanostructures with a surface area of 9.7 m2/g and pores in the range from 200 to 400 nm have been prepared via precipitation cum calcination route. The superhydrophobic coatings comprising ZnO/metal stearate film have been deposited using a spray coating method. The developed superhydrophobic films possess a water contact angle of 161° that can be explained using the Cassie-Baxter model. The prepared films exhibited excellent floating properties and high load-bearing characteristics over a prolonged time. Additionally, the self-cleaning properties of the developed superhydrophobic films towards dust removal and self-cleaning urinary coatings are also demonstrated. This chapter collectively presented the novel applications of superhydrophobic coating in the development of biomedical coatings and applications in water surveillance and underwater robotics.

Download Full-text

Advances in ultramicrotomy for physical sciences applications

Proceedings, annual meeting, Electron Microscopy Society of America ◽

10.1017/s0424820100149386 ◽

1993 ◽

Vol 51 ◽

pp. 710-711

Author(s):

G. McMahon ◽

T. Malis

Keyword(s):

Particle Surface ◽

Zeolite Catalysts ◽

Physical Sciences ◽

Pull Out ◽

Large Particles ◽

Novel Applications ◽

Metal Wires ◽

Frequent Problem ◽

Specific Orientation ◽

Diamond Knife

As with all techniques which are relatively new and therefore underutilized, diamond knife sectioning in the physical sciences continues to see both developments of the technique and novel applications.Technique Developments Development of specific orientation/embedding procedures for small pieces of awkward shape is exemplified by the work of Bradley et al on large, rather fragile particles of nuclear waste glass. At the same time, the frequent problem of pullout with large particles can be reduced by roughening of the particle surface, and a proven methodology using a commercial coupling agent developed for glasses has been utilized with good results on large zeolite catalysts. The same principle (using acid etches) should work for ceramic fibres or metal wires which may only partially pull out but result in unacceptably thick sections. Researchers from the life sciences continue to develop aspects of embedding media which may be applicable to certain cases in the physical sciences.

Download Full-text