Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)are widely used as hole transport materials in inverted perovskite solar cells,offering low parasitic absorption and suitability for semitransparent and tandem solar cells.While SAMs hav...Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)are widely used as hole transport materials in inverted perovskite solar cells,offering low parasitic absorption and suitability for semitransparent and tandem solar cells.While SAMs have shown to be promising in small-area devices(≤1 cm^(2)),their application in larger areas has been limited by a lack of knowledge regarding alternative deposition methods beyond the common spin-coating approach.Here,we compare spin-coating and upscalable methods such as thermal evaporation and spray-coating for[2-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid(2PACz),one of the most common carbazole-based SAMs.The impact of these deposition methods on the device performance is investigated,revealing that the spray-coating technique yields higher device performance.Furthermore,our work provides guidelines for the deposition of SAM materials for the fabrication of perovskite solar modules.In addition,we provide an extensive characterization of 2PACz films focusing on thermal evaporation and spray-coating methods,which allow for thicker 2PACz deposition.It is found that the optimal 2PACz deposition conditions corresponding to the highest device performances do not always correlate with the monolayer characteristics.展开更多
Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)have been commonly employed as hole-selective layers(HSLs)in inverted(p-i-n)perovskite solar cells(PSCs),and typically only a single-component SAM is applied,which plays limited role in ...Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)have been commonly employed as hole-selective layers(HSLs)in inverted(p-i-n)perovskite solar cells(PSCs),and typically only a single-component SAM is applied,which plays limited role in selective hole transport.Herein,we synthesize a novel SAM,(4-(3,11-dibro mo-7H-dibenzo[c,g]carbazol-7-yl)butyl)phosphonic acid(Br-4PADBC),and apply it as a complementary component to the commonly used[2-(3,6-dimeth oxy-9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid(MeO-2PACz)SAM,accomplishing boosted hole transport in inverted PSCs.A series of characterizations and theoretical calculations are employed to unravel the roles of each components within the binary SAM(bi-SAM).The involvements of the non-planar dibenzo[c,g]carbazole unit and electron-withdrawing Br atoms induce larger dipole moment of Br-4PADBC than MeO-2PACz,resulting in much deeper work function of ITO and consequently improved alignment with the valence band energy level of perovskite.Besides,the introduced Br atoms improve the quality of perovskite crystals and help passivate defects of perovskite.On the other hand,the existence of the conventional MeO-2PACz SAM ensures the considerable conductivity of the bi-SAM and thus efficient hole extraction from the perovskite layer.As a result,inverted PSC devices based on bi-SAM HSL deliver a decent power conversion efficiency(PCE)of 24.52%as well as dramatically improved thermal and operational stabilities.展开更多
Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs),owing to their amphiphilic nature,tend to aggregate,which impedes the formation of a dense and uniform SAM on the substrate.Additionally,the weak adsorption ability of SAMs on the indiu...Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs),owing to their amphiphilic nature,tend to aggregate,which impedes the formation of a dense and uniform SAM on the substrate.Additionally,the weak adsorption ability of SAMs on the indium tin oxide(ITO)surface and the desorption of hydroxyl(OH)from the ITO surface induced by polar solvents can lead to the formation of vacancies.Herein,a dimethylacridine-based SAM is incorporated into the perovskite precursor solution.This SAM can be extruded from the precursor solution and enriched on the bottom surface of the perovskite,filling the vacancies and in situ forming a mixed SAM with MeO-2PACz as a hole-selective layer(HSL).The in situ formed mixed SAM optimizes the energy level alignment between the HSL and the perovskite,facilitating hole extraction and alleviating the residual strain of the perovskite film.Consequently,the perovskite solar cells(PSCs),based on the mixed SAM,achieve a power conversion efficiency(PCE)of 25.69%and exhibit excellent operational stability.When this approach is applied to 1.78 eV bandgap PSC devices,it yields a PCE of 20.08%.This work presents a unique strategy for fabricating both high-quality perovskite films and superior buried interfaces,which is also applicable to wide-bandgap PSCs.展开更多
The optimization of hole transport layer(HTL)is crucial for achieving high efficiency and stability in inverted perovskite solar cells(PSCs)due to its role in facilitating hole transport and passivating the perovskite...The optimization of hole transport layer(HTL)is crucial for achieving high efficiency and stability in inverted perovskite solar cells(PSCs)due to its role in facilitating hole transport and passivating the perovskite bottom interface.While self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)are commonly used for this purpose,the inherent limitations of a single SAM,such as fixed energy levels and rigid structure,restrict their adaptability for different perovskite components and further efficiency enhancement.Here,we demonstrate a stepwise deposition method for SAM-based HTLs to address this issue.We regulated the energy level gradient by depositing two SAMs with distinct energy levels,while the interactions between the phosphate groups in the SAMs and perovskite effectively reduce defect density at the bottom interface of the perovskite film.The as-fabricated PSCs achieved enhanced efficiency and stability with PCEs of 25.7% and 24.0% for rigid and flexible PSCs,respectively;these devices maintain 90% of their initial PCE after 500 h of maximum power point tracking,and retain 98% of their initial PCE after 4,000 bending cycles,representing one of the most stable flexible PSCs reported to date.展开更多
Inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells(PSCs)based on self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)as hole-selective layers(HSLs)have produced potential record efficiencies of more than 26%by tuning work function,dipole,and passivati...Inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells(PSCs)based on self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)as hole-selective layers(HSLs)have produced potential record efficiencies of more than 26%by tuning work function,dipole,and passivation defects.However,the stability of the SAM molecules,the stability of the molecular anchoring conformation,and the impact on the stability of subsequent PSCs have not been clearly elucidated.In this review,we systematically discussed the intrinsic connection between the molecular conformation(including anchoring groups,spacer groups,and terminal groups)and the stability of SAMs.Sequentially,the research progress of SAMs as HSLs in improving the stability of PSCs is summarized,including photostability,thermal stability,ion migration,and residual stress.Finally,we look forward to the shortcomings and possible challenges of using SAMs as HSLs for inverted PSCs.展开更多
Directly correlating the morphology and composition of interfacial water is vital not only for studying water icing under critical conditions but also for understanding the role of protein–water interac-tions in bio-...Directly correlating the morphology and composition of interfacial water is vital not only for studying water icing under critical conditions but also for understanding the role of protein–water interac-tions in bio-relevant systems.In this study,we present a model system to study two-dimensional(2D)water layers under ambient conditions by using self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)supporting the physisorp-tion of the Cytochrome C(Cyt C)protein layer.We observed that the 2D island-like water layers were uniformly distributed on the SAMs as characterized by atomic force microscopy,and their composition was confirmed by nano-atomic force microscopy-infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy.In addition,these 2D flakes could grow under high-humidity conditions or melt upon the introduction of a heat source.The formation of these flakes is attributed to the activation energy for water desorption from the Cyt C being nearly twofold high than that from the SAMs.Our results provide a new and effective method for further understanding the water–protein interactions.展开更多
The NiOx,due to its excellent semiconductor properties,ease of large-area deposition,and tunable optoelectronic characteristics,shows great potential in industrial large-area perovskite technologies.However,NiO_(x)-ba...The NiOx,due to its excellent semiconductor properties,ease of large-area deposition,and tunable optoelectronic characteristics,shows great potential in industrial large-area perovskite technologies.However,NiO_(x)-based perovskite solar cells(PSCs)are limited by interfacial photocatalytic chemical reactions and energy level mismatch.Thus,phosphate-based self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)have been widely developed for delicate interfacial modification;however,they suffer from severe issues such as self-aggregation and high cost.Herein,a low-cost carboxylate-based SAM(pyrenebutyric acid,PyBA)was used to modify NiO_(x),achieving an improved surface chemical environment and interfacial properties,such as an increased Ni^(3+)/Ni2^(+)ratio,a reduced proportion of high-valence Ni^(≥3+),and better-aligned hole transport interface energy level.The introduction of PyBA also results in larger grain size,higher uniformity,and enhanced photoluminescence(PL)from the bottom of the perovskite,yielding a significant increase in efficiency from an initial 22.48%to 25.14%,while increasing the open-circuit voltage(VOC)from 1.077 to 1.192 V.Additionally,a perovskite module with an aperture area of 21 cm^(2)achieved an efficiency of 22.28%,demonstrating the excellent scalability of the PyBA treatment.Moreover,the well-modified buried interface combined with the chemical inertness and structural rigidity of pyrene ensures excellent ultraviolet(UV)stability(the target module maintained 92%of the initial efficiency after 200 h and the control device only retained 40%).展开更多
The self-assembled nanoparticles(SAN)formed during the decoction process of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)exhibit non-uniform particle sizes and a tendency for aggregation.Our group found that the p H-driven method...The self-assembled nanoparticles(SAN)formed during the decoction process of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)exhibit non-uniform particle sizes and a tendency for aggregation.Our group found that the p H-driven method can improve the self-assembly phenomenon of Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall.,and the SAN exhibited uniform particle size and demonstrated good stability.In this paper,we analyzed the interactions between the main active compound,herpetrione(Her),and its main carrier,Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall.polysaccharide(HCWP),along with their self-assembly mechanisms under different p H values.The binding constants of Her and HCWP increase with rising p H,leading to the formation of Her-HCWP SAN with a smaller particle size,higher zeta potential,and improved thermal stability.While the contributions of hydrogen bonding and electrostatic attraction to the formation of Her-HCWP SAN increase with rising p H,the hydrophobic force consistently plays a dominant role.This study enhances our scientific understanding of the self-assembly phenomenon of TCM improved by p H driven method.展开更多
Self-assembled monolayers （SAMs） of （3-mercaptopropy） trimethoxysilane （3-MtrF） chemisorbed on silver surfaces were chemically ＂modified by 1-octadecanethiol to form self-assembled mixed-monolayers （SAMM） and...Self-assembled monolayers （SAMs） of （3-mercaptopropy） trimethoxysilane （3-MtrF） chemisorbed on silver surfaces were chemically ＂modified by 1-octadecanethiol to form self-assembled mixed-monolayers （SAMM） and the co-polymer of N-vinylcarbazole and methyl methacrylate ester （to form complex selfassembled film （CSAF））. The oxidation resistance of these barriers on silver surfaces and some influential factors concerned processes were analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy （EIS） in a 10% NaOH aqueous solution at oxidation potential. X-ray diffraction （XRD） spectroscopy shows that the oxidation occurring on the silver surface may be restrained effectively due to the coating barrier, and CSAF（Ⅱ） is the best one. Studies also reveal that oxide processes of bare silver and a series of modified silver electrodes in a 10% NaOH aqueous solution are of more than two relaxation time constants.展开更多
We demonstrate surface enhanced Raman scattering （SERS） detection of self-assembled nano silver film using a low-cost electrolysis strategy at a proper voltage and silver nitrate concentration in electrolyte. The co...We demonstrate surface enhanced Raman scattering （SERS） detection of self-assembled nano silver film using a low-cost electrolysis strategy at a proper voltage and silver nitrate concentration in electrolyte. The concentration dependence of SERS from crystal violet （CV） molecules adsorbed to silver film was systematically studied. Importantly, the SERS surface enhancement factor of such nano silver film was 603, which was measured by a portable Raman spectrometer. The minimum concentration of detectable CV molecules can be as low as 10^-11 mol/L. The nano silver film prepared by this electrolysis method is an active, stable, cost-effective, and reusable SERS substrate.展开更多
Self assembled monolayers （SAMs） of 1-tetradecylphosphonic acids （TDPA, CH3（CH2）13P（O）（OH）2 ） were formed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface in TDPA-containing ethanol-water solutions with different water co...Self assembled monolayers （SAMs） of 1-tetradecylphosphonic acids （TDPA, CH3（CH2）13P（O）（OH）2 ） were formed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface in TDPA-containing ethanol-water solutions with different water content. The adsorption and corrosion protection properties of the SAMs for 2024 alloy in 0.1 mol/L H2SO4 solution were examined and characterized by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectrum （EIS）, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy （FTIR）, Auger electron spectra （AES） and atomic force microscopy （AFM）. FTIR and AES results show that the TDPA molecules were successfully adsorbed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface, and the density of the SAMs increased with the increasing water content in the assembly solution. The results of electrochemical studies and corrosion morphologies observed by AFM show that a 4 h modification resulted in maximal inhibition efficiency, and the higher the water content in the assembly solution is, the better the inhibition performance of the SAMs can be achieved. The effect of water content in TDPA solutions on the performance of the SAMs is related to the hydration reaction of the metal surface.展开更多
A new type of amphiphiles bearingmacrocycle such as cucurbit[7]uril(CB[7])spontaneously forms a nanomaterial in water,specifically vesicles(tACB[7]vesicles)with a positive surface charge,verified through various analy...A new type of amphiphiles bearingmacrocycle such as cucurbit[7]uril(CB[7])spontaneously forms a nanomaterial in water,specifically vesicles(tACB[7]vesicles)with a positive surface charge,verified through various analytical techniques including TIRF,DLS and TEM.Functional validation not only reveals the accessibility of the CB[7]portal on these vesicles allowing CB[7]-based host-vip interactions with various functional vip molecules such as fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated adamantylammonium and spermine(FITC-AdA and FITC-SPM,respectively)using confocal laser scanning microscopy,but also showcases the effective internalization of tACB[7]vesicles into cancer cells with the anticancer drug oxaliplatin(OxPt),as a vip to CB[7],through in vitro cell experiments.Hence,this study provides a blueprint to impart amphiphilic properties to CB[7]through synthetic design and highlights the potential of CB[7]derivatives as a new class of unconventional amphiphiles self-assembling into functional nanomaterials for advanced drug delivery.展开更多
Spatial confinement of block copolymers can induce frustrations,which can further be utilized to regulate self-assembled structures,thus providing an efficient route for fabricating novel structures.We studied the sel...Spatial confinement of block copolymers can induce frustrations,which can further be utilized to regulate self-assembled structures,thus providing an efficient route for fabricating novel structures.We studied the self-assembly of AB di-block copolymers(di-BCPs)confined in Janus spherical nanocavities using simulations,and explained the structure formation mechanisms.In the case of a strongly selective cavity wall,all the lamella-forming,gyroid-forming,and cylinder-forming di-BCPs can form interfacial frustration-induced Janus concentric perforated lamellar nanoparticles,whose outermost is a Janus spherical shell and the internal is a sphere with concentric perforated lamellar structure.In particular,Janus concentric perforated lamellar nanoparticles with holes distributed only near the equatorial plane were obtained in both lamella-forming and gyroid-forming di-BCPs,directly reflecting the effect of interfacial frustration.The minority-block domain of the cylider-forming di-BCPs may form hemispherical perforated lamellar structures with holes distributed in parallel layers with a specific orientation.For symmetric di-BCPs,both the A and B domains in each nanoparticle are continuous,interchangeable,and have rotational symmetry.While for gyroid-forming and cylinder-forming di-BCPs,only the majority-block domains are continuous in each nanoparticle,and holes in the minority-block domains usually have rotational symmetry.In the case of a weakly selective cavity wall,the inhomogeneity of the cavity wall results in structures having a specific orientation(such as flower-like and branched structures in gyroid-forming and cylinder-forming di-BCPs)and a perforated wetting layer with uniformly distributed holes.The novel nanoparticles obtained may have potential applications in nanotechnology as functional nanostructures or nanoparticles.展开更多
A significant challenge in developing block copolymer photonic crystals is constructing low-symmetric ordered phases,which are essential for achieving a complete photonic band gap.Here,we propose a promising strategy ...A significant challenge in developing block copolymer photonic crystals is constructing low-symmetric ordered phases,which are essential for achieving a complete photonic band gap.Here,we propose a promising strategy to create low-symmetric ordered morphologies by incorporating shape-anisotropic rod-like side chains into block copolymers.Using dissipative particle dynamics simulations,we demonstrate that block copolymers with longer rod-like side chains can self-assemble into a hexagonally packed columnar phase characterized by a low-symmetric rectangular cross-section.Photonic band structure calculations reveal that this low-symmetric columnar phase can exhibit a complete photonic band gap,with the gap size dependent on the aspect ratio of the rectangular cross-sections of the columns.Our findings suggest an effective approach to constructing low-symmetric photonic crystals through the self-assembly of block copolymers with shape-anisotropic segments.展开更多
Recently,stimuli-responsive nanocarriers capable of precision drug release have garnered significant attention in the field of drug delivery.Here,an in-situ dynamic covalent self-assembled(DCS)strategy was utilized to...Recently,stimuli-responsive nanocarriers capable of precision drug release have garnered significant attention in the field of drug delivery.Here,an in-situ dynamic covalent self-assembled(DCS)strategy was utilized to develop a co-delivery system.This assembly was based on a thiol-disulfide-exchange reaction,producing disulfide macrocycles in an oxidizing aerial environment.These macrocycles encapsulated the anti-cancer drug(paclitaxel,PTX)on the surface of gold nanoparticles,which served as photothermal therapy agents during the self-assembly.In the DCS process,the kinetic control over the concentration of each building unit within the reaction system led to the formation of a stable co-delivery nanosystem with optimal drug-loading efficiency.Notably,the high glutathione(GSH)concentrations in tumor cells caused the disulfide macrocycles in nanostructures to break,resulting in drug release.The stimuli-responsive performances of the prepared nanosystems were determined by observing the molecular structures and drug release.The results revealed that the self-assembled nanosystem exhibited GSH-triggered drug release and good photothermal conversion capability under near-infrared light.Moreover,the in vitro and in vivo results revealed that conjugating the targeting molecule of cRGD with co-delivery nanosystem enhanced its biocompatibility,chemo-photothermal anti-cancer effect.Overall,our findings indicated that in-situ DCS strategy enhanced the control over drug loading during the construction of the co-delivery system,paving a way for the development of more functional carriers in nanomedicine.展开更多
Dielectric properties of dithiol self-assemble monolayers （SAMs） under ac electric field were presented, Using a Hg-SAM/SAM-Ⅱg junction, the ac impedances of dithiol SAMs were measured using a sinusoidal perturbati...Dielectric properties of dithiol self-assemble monolayers （SAMs） under ac electric field were presented, Using a Hg-SAM/SAM-Ⅱg junction, the ac impedances of dithiol SAMs were measured using a sinusoidal perturbation of 30 mV （peak to-peak） with the frequency ranging from 1 Hz to 1 MHz at zero bias. The contributions from dithiol SAMs and solvent interlayers were separated due to their different behaviors at ac impedance. The peak position in the loss spectra （the plot; of tgδ vs. frequency） moves to low frequcney with the incrcase of chain length of dithiols. Using a correlation of peak position with the chain length, the active energies of 23-39 meV for dithiol SAMs of C6-C10 under an ac electric field were derived,展开更多
The authors have investigated the pH and ionic strength response of self-assembled layers formed by adsorption of amphiphilic weak polyelectrolytes. Using the SFA （Surface Forces Apparatus） the authors measured forc...The authors have investigated the pH and ionic strength response of self-assembled layers formed by adsorption of amphiphilic weak polyelectrolytes. Using the SFA （Surface Forces Apparatus） the authors measured force-distance profiles of poly （isoprene）-poly （acrylic acid） block copolymers adsorbed on mica. Also by Atomic Force Microscopy the authors captured single polyelectrolyte molecule adsorbed on a surface. The effect of salt concentration （Cs） and pH upon the height of the brush layers was explored mainly by measuring the forces between two adsorbed polyelectrolyte brushes. At pH = 4 our results are in good agreement with the scaling prediction L0 ∝Cs-1/3 Changing the pH from 4 to 10 causes a remarkable swelling of the polymer layer, but only a weak dependence on salt concentration was detected at the higher pH. This can be attributed to the degree of dissociation, which depends on the local pH value. At low pH the polyelectrolyte chains have a low charge density, while on increasing the pH the degree of dissociation rises, and the increased charge density is followed by swelling of the adsorbed layer. The local concentration of ions in the brush is now greater than that of pH = 4 and approximately equivalent to 0.3 M. So the swelling is only weakly dependent on salt concentration in the range 0.01-1.0 M. The results demonstrate the tunable nature of such self-assembled polyelectroiyte brushes whose height and range of interactions, can be systematically controlled by adjusting the pH and ionic strength of the medium.展开更多
We investigate tunneling electron induced luminescence from isolated single porphyrin molecules that are decoupled by striped-phase self-assembled monolayer of octanethiol from the underneath Au（111） substrate. Intr...We investigate tunneling electron induced luminescence from isolated single porphyrin molecules that are decoupled by striped-phase self-assembled monolayer of octanethiol from the underneath Au（111） substrate. Intrinsic single-molecule electroluminescence has been realized by such decoupling at both bias polarities. The photon emission intensity acquired from the molecular lobe is found stronger than that from the molecular center. These re- sults provide useful information on the understanding of electroluminescent behavior and mechanism in molecular tunnel junctions.展开更多
In order to improve the cancer-targeting and selective activity of antineoplastic agent [5-fluorouracil （5-FU）], a novel pH-responsive drug delivery system [pullulan acetate/sulfonamide （PA/SDM） conjugate] was syn...In order to improve the cancer-targeting and selective activity of antineoplastic agent [5-fluorouracil （5-FU）], a novel pH-responsive drug delivery system [pullulan acetate/sulfonamide （PA/SDM） conjugate] was synthesized by a diafiltration method. Sulfonamide was grafted to the hydrophobicaUy modified pullulan acetate to enhance the pH sensitivity for better cancer-targeting delivery. 5-FU was loaded into the self-assembled nanoparticles by the same method. The drug-loaded self-assembled nanoparticles were successfully obtained and characterized in terms of particle size, morphology and drug loading and release profile at various pHs. The results showed that the mean diameter of the self-assembled particles was approximately 100nm, with uniform size and good spherical morphology. The nanoparticles showed good stability at pH 7.4, which is equal to that of the normal body fluid, but shrank and aggregated below pH 6.8, which is close to the pH with tumors. The loading efficiency and concentration of released 5-FU was monitored at 269 nm on the UVNis spectrophotometer. The release profile was heavily pH-dependent around phvsiological pH, and the release rate was significantly enhanced under pH of 6.8.展开更多
Silane coupling reagent (3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)) was prepared on single-crystal silicon substrates to form two-dimensional self-assembled monolayer (SAM). The terminal-NH2 groups in the film were in situ...Silane coupling reagent (3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)) was prepared on single-crystal silicon substrates to form two-dimensional self-assembled monolayer (SAM). The terminal-NH2 groups in the film were in situ phosphorylated to -PO(OH)2 group to endow the film with good chemisorption ability. Then La-based thin films were deposited on phosphorylated APTES-SAM in order to make good use of the chemisorption ability of -PO(OH)2 groups. The thickness of the film was determined with ellipsometer, while phase transformation and surface morphology, surface energy, phase composition were analyzed by means of atomic force microscope (AFM), contact angle measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicated that the terminal-NH2 groups could be completely transformed into desirable-PO(OH)2 groups after phosphorylation of APTES-SAM. Detailed XPS analysis of the La3+ peaks revealed that lanthanum element existed in the films in different states. As a result, conclusion could be made that lanthanum reacted with -PO(OH)2 groups on the surface of the substrate by chemical bond which would improve the bonding strength between the film and silicon substrate. Since the La-based thin films were well adhered to the silicon substrate, it might find promising application in the surface-modification of single-crystal Si and SiC in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).展开更多
基金supported by funding from the Energy Materials and Surface Sciences Unit of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University,the OIST R&D Cluster Research Program,the OIST Proof of Concept(POC)Program,the JSPS KAKENHI Grant Number JP21F21754 and Alexander von Humboldt Foundation。
文摘Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)are widely used as hole transport materials in inverted perovskite solar cells,offering low parasitic absorption and suitability for semitransparent and tandem solar cells.While SAMs have shown to be promising in small-area devices(≤1 cm^(2)),their application in larger areas has been limited by a lack of knowledge regarding alternative deposition methods beyond the common spin-coating approach.Here,we compare spin-coating and upscalable methods such as thermal evaporation and spray-coating for[2-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid(2PACz),one of the most common carbazole-based SAMs.The impact of these deposition methods on the device performance is investigated,revealing that the spray-coating technique yields higher device performance.Furthermore,our work provides guidelines for the deposition of SAM materials for the fabrication of perovskite solar modules.In addition,we provide an extensive characterization of 2PACz films focusing on thermal evaporation and spray-coating methods,which allow for thicker 2PACz deposition.It is found that the optimal 2PACz deposition conditions corresponding to the highest device performances do not always correlate with the monolayer characteristics.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(51925206,U1932214,52302052)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52322318)+6 种基金the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB0450301)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(WK2060000051,20720220009)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFB3809700)the Innovation and Technology Fund(GHP/100/20SZ,GHP/102/20GD,MRP/040/21X,ITS/147/22FP)the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong Grant(N_City U102/23,C4005-22Y,C1055-23G,11306521)the Green Tech Fund(GTF202020164)the Science Technology and Innovation Committee of Shenzhen Municipality(SGDX20210823104002015,JCYJ20220818101018038)。
文摘Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)have been commonly employed as hole-selective layers(HSLs)in inverted(p-i-n)perovskite solar cells(PSCs),and typically only a single-component SAM is applied,which plays limited role in selective hole transport.Herein,we synthesize a novel SAM,(4-(3,11-dibro mo-7H-dibenzo[c,g]carbazol-7-yl)butyl)phosphonic acid(Br-4PADBC),and apply it as a complementary component to the commonly used[2-(3,6-dimeth oxy-9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid(MeO-2PACz)SAM,accomplishing boosted hole transport in inverted PSCs.A series of characterizations and theoretical calculations are employed to unravel the roles of each components within the binary SAM(bi-SAM).The involvements of the non-planar dibenzo[c,g]carbazole unit and electron-withdrawing Br atoms induce larger dipole moment of Br-4PADBC than MeO-2PACz,resulting in much deeper work function of ITO and consequently improved alignment with the valence band energy level of perovskite.Besides,the introduced Br atoms improve the quality of perovskite crystals and help passivate defects of perovskite.On the other hand,the existence of the conventional MeO-2PACz SAM ensures the considerable conductivity of the bi-SAM and thus efficient hole extraction from the perovskite layer.As a result,inverted PSC devices based on bi-SAM HSL deliver a decent power conversion efficiency(PCE)of 24.52%as well as dramatically improved thermal and operational stabilities.
基金supported by the Young Cross Team Project of CAS(No.JCTD-2021-14)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(51925206)Gusu Innovation and Entrepreneur Leading Talents(ZXL2022466)。
文摘Self-assembled monolayers(SAMs),owing to their amphiphilic nature,tend to aggregate,which impedes the formation of a dense and uniform SAM on the substrate.Additionally,the weak adsorption ability of SAMs on the indium tin oxide(ITO)surface and the desorption of hydroxyl(OH)from the ITO surface induced by polar solvents can lead to the formation of vacancies.Herein,a dimethylacridine-based SAM is incorporated into the perovskite precursor solution.This SAM can be extruded from the precursor solution and enriched on the bottom surface of the perovskite,filling the vacancies and in situ forming a mixed SAM with MeO-2PACz as a hole-selective layer(HSL).The in situ formed mixed SAM optimizes the energy level alignment between the HSL and the perovskite,facilitating hole extraction and alleviating the residual strain of the perovskite film.Consequently,the perovskite solar cells(PSCs),based on the mixed SAM,achieve a power conversion efficiency(PCE)of 25.69%and exhibit excellent operational stability.When this approach is applied to 1.78 eV bandgap PSC devices,it yields a PCE of 20.08%.This work presents a unique strategy for fabricating both high-quality perovskite films and superior buried interfaces,which is also applicable to wide-bandgap PSCs.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22305119,12204234)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BK20220878)+3 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(NS2023059)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022TQ0157,2023M741695)the Liaoning University Talent Introduction Research Startup Project(d295000048)the Center for Microscopy and Analysis of Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics for characterization support。
文摘The optimization of hole transport layer(HTL)is crucial for achieving high efficiency and stability in inverted perovskite solar cells(PSCs)due to its role in facilitating hole transport and passivating the perovskite bottom interface.While self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)are commonly used for this purpose,the inherent limitations of a single SAM,such as fixed energy levels and rigid structure,restrict their adaptability for different perovskite components and further efficiency enhancement.Here,we demonstrate a stepwise deposition method for SAM-based HTLs to address this issue.We regulated the energy level gradient by depositing two SAMs with distinct energy levels,while the interactions between the phosphate groups in the SAMs and perovskite effectively reduce defect density at the bottom interface of the perovskite film.The as-fabricated PSCs achieved enhanced efficiency and stability with PCEs of 25.7% and 24.0% for rigid and flexible PSCs,respectively;these devices maintain 90% of their initial PCE after 500 h of maximum power point tracking,and retain 98% of their initial PCE after 4,000 bending cycles,representing one of the most stable flexible PSCs reported to date.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China(22425903,U24A20568,61705102,62288102,22409091,22409090 and 62205142)the National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFB4204500)the Jiangsu Provincial Departments of Science and Technology(BE2022023,BK20220010,BZ2023060,BK20240561,and BK20240562)。
文摘Inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells(PSCs)based on self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)as hole-selective layers(HSLs)have produced potential record efficiencies of more than 26%by tuning work function,dipole,and passivation defects.However,the stability of the SAM molecules,the stability of the molecular anchoring conformation,and the impact on the stability of subsequent PSCs have not been clearly elucidated.In this review,we systematically discussed the intrinsic connection between the molecular conformation(including anchoring groups,spacer groups,and terminal groups)and the stability of SAMs.Sequentially,the research progress of SAMs as HSLs in improving the stability of PSCs is summarized,including photostability,thermal stability,ion migration,and residual stress.Finally,we look forward to the shortcomings and possible challenges of using SAMs as HSLs for inverted PSCs.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22273045,52488101 and 22472043)Ningbo Youth Science and Technology Innovation Leading Talent(2023QL041)Tsinghua University Independent Scientific Research Plan for Young Investigator,Tsinghua University Dushi Program,and Initiative Scientific Research Program。
文摘Directly correlating the morphology and composition of interfacial water is vital not only for studying water icing under critical conditions but also for understanding the role of protein–water interac-tions in bio-relevant systems.In this study,we present a model system to study two-dimensional(2D)water layers under ambient conditions by using self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)supporting the physisorp-tion of the Cytochrome C(Cyt C)protein layer.We observed that the 2D island-like water layers were uniformly distributed on the SAMs as characterized by atomic force microscopy,and their composition was confirmed by nano-atomic force microscopy-infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy.In addition,these 2D flakes could grow under high-humidity conditions or melt upon the introduction of a heat source.The formation of these flakes is attributed to the activation energy for water desorption from the Cyt C being nearly twofold high than that from the SAMs.Our results provide a new and effective method for further understanding the water–protein interactions.
基金Y.Zhan acknowledges funding support from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFE0137400)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62274040)+5 种基金A.Yu acknowledges funding support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62304046)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFB2802802)the Key Laboratory of Rare Earths,Ganjiang Innovation Academy,Chinese Academy of SciencesX.Zhang acknowledges funding from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(GZC20230463)X.Li acknowledges funding from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(GZC20230461)We also acknowledge support from the Shanghai Science and Technology Innovation Action Plan 2023 Special Project for Supporting Carbon Peak Carbon Neutrality Project(23DZ1200400).
文摘The NiOx,due to its excellent semiconductor properties,ease of large-area deposition,and tunable optoelectronic characteristics,shows great potential in industrial large-area perovskite technologies.However,NiO_(x)-based perovskite solar cells(PSCs)are limited by interfacial photocatalytic chemical reactions and energy level mismatch.Thus,phosphate-based self-assembled monolayers(SAMs)have been widely developed for delicate interfacial modification;however,they suffer from severe issues such as self-aggregation and high cost.Herein,a low-cost carboxylate-based SAM(pyrenebutyric acid,PyBA)was used to modify NiO_(x),achieving an improved surface chemical environment and interfacial properties,such as an increased Ni^(3+)/Ni2^(+)ratio,a reduced proportion of high-valence Ni^(≥3+),and better-aligned hole transport interface energy level.The introduction of PyBA also results in larger grain size,higher uniformity,and enhanced photoluminescence(PL)from the bottom of the perovskite,yielding a significant increase in efficiency from an initial 22.48%to 25.14%,while increasing the open-circuit voltage(VOC)from 1.077 to 1.192 V.Additionally,a perovskite module with an aperture area of 21 cm^(2)achieved an efficiency of 22.28%,demonstrating the excellent scalability of the PyBA treatment.Moreover,the well-modified buried interface combined with the chemical inertness and structural rigidity of pyrene ensures excellent ultraviolet(UV)stability(the target module maintained 92%of the initial efficiency after 200 h and the control device only retained 40%).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81873092,82174074)。
文摘The self-assembled nanoparticles(SAN)formed during the decoction process of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)exhibit non-uniform particle sizes and a tendency for aggregation.Our group found that the p H-driven method can improve the self-assembly phenomenon of Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall.,and the SAN exhibited uniform particle size and demonstrated good stability.In this paper,we analyzed the interactions between the main active compound,herpetrione(Her),and its main carrier,Herpetospermum caudigerum Wall.polysaccharide(HCWP),along with their self-assembly mechanisms under different p H values.The binding constants of Her and HCWP increase with rising p H,leading to the formation of Her-HCWP SAN with a smaller particle size,higher zeta potential,and improved thermal stability.While the contributions of hydrogen bonding and electrostatic attraction to the formation of Her-HCWP SAN increase with rising p H,the hydrophobic force consistently plays a dominant role.This study enhances our scientific understanding of the self-assembly phenomenon of TCM improved by p H driven method.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.60371027,60171005).
文摘Self-assembled monolayers （SAMs） of （3-mercaptopropy） trimethoxysilane （3-MtrF） chemisorbed on silver surfaces were chemically ＂modified by 1-octadecanethiol to form self-assembled mixed-monolayers （SAMM） and the co-polymer of N-vinylcarbazole and methyl methacrylate ester （to form complex selfassembled film （CSAF））. The oxidation resistance of these barriers on silver surfaces and some influential factors concerned processes were analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy （EIS） in a 10% NaOH aqueous solution at oxidation potential. X-ray diffraction （XRD） spectroscopy shows that the oxidation occurring on the silver surface may be restrained effectively due to the coating barrier, and CSAF（Ⅱ） is the best one. Studies also reveal that oxide processes of bare silver and a series of modified silver electrodes in a 10% NaOH aqueous solution are of more than two relaxation time constants.
基金ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No.10864001）, the Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province （No.2008ZC159M）, and No.8 Middle-Aged and Young Academic Talent Reserve Project of Yunnan Province （No.2005PY01-51）.
文摘We demonstrate surface enhanced Raman scattering （SERS） detection of self-assembled nano silver film using a low-cost electrolysis strategy at a proper voltage and silver nitrate concentration in electrolyte. The concentration dependence of SERS from crystal violet （CV） molecules adsorbed to silver film was systematically studied. Importantly, the SERS surface enhancement factor of such nano silver film was 603, which was measured by a portable Raman spectrometer. The minimum concentration of detectable CV molecules can be as low as 10^-11 mol/L. The nano silver film prepared by this electrolysis method is an active, stable, cost-effective, and reusable SERS substrate.
基金Project(Q20120110)supported by Youth Foundation of Hubei Provincial Education Bureau,ChinaProject(2009CDB347)supported by the Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation,ChinaProject(51001045)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘Self assembled monolayers （SAMs） of 1-tetradecylphosphonic acids （TDPA, CH3（CH2）13P（O）（OH）2 ） were formed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface in TDPA-containing ethanol-water solutions with different water content. The adsorption and corrosion protection properties of the SAMs for 2024 alloy in 0.1 mol/L H2SO4 solution were examined and characterized by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectrum （EIS）, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy （FTIR）, Auger electron spectra （AES） and atomic force microscopy （AFM）. FTIR and AES results show that the TDPA molecules were successfully adsorbed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface, and the density of the SAMs increased with the increasing water content in the assembly solution. The results of electrochemical studies and corrosion morphologies observed by AFM show that a 4 h modification resulted in maximal inhibition efficiency, and the higher the water content in the assembly solution is, the better the inhibition performance of the SAMs can be achieved. The effect of water content in TDPA solutions on the performance of the SAMs is related to the hydration reaction of the metal surface.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea[NRF-2023–00211758].
文摘A new type of amphiphiles bearingmacrocycle such as cucurbit[7]uril(CB[7])spontaneously forms a nanomaterial in water,specifically vesicles(tACB[7]vesicles)with a positive surface charge,verified through various analytical techniques including TIRF,DLS and TEM.Functional validation not only reveals the accessibility of the CB[7]portal on these vesicles allowing CB[7]-based host-vip interactions with various functional vip molecules such as fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated adamantylammonium and spermine(FITC-AdA and FITC-SPM,respectively)using confocal laser scanning microscopy,but also showcases the effective internalization of tACB[7]vesicles into cancer cells with the anticancer drug oxaliplatin(OxPt),as a vip to CB[7],through in vitro cell experiments.Hence,this study provides a blueprint to impart amphiphilic properties to CB[7]through synthetic design and highlights the potential of CB[7]derivatives as a new class of unconventional amphiphiles self-assembling into functional nanomaterials for advanced drug delivery.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(Nos.22173051,21829301,21774066)College Discipline Innovation and Intelligence Introduction Program(111 Project(B16027)+1 种基金the International Cooperation Base(2016D01025)Tianjin International Joint Research and Development Center。
文摘Spatial confinement of block copolymers can induce frustrations,which can further be utilized to regulate self-assembled structures,thus providing an efficient route for fabricating novel structures.We studied the self-assembly of AB di-block copolymers(di-BCPs)confined in Janus spherical nanocavities using simulations,and explained the structure formation mechanisms.In the case of a strongly selective cavity wall,all the lamella-forming,gyroid-forming,and cylinder-forming di-BCPs can form interfacial frustration-induced Janus concentric perforated lamellar nanoparticles,whose outermost is a Janus spherical shell and the internal is a sphere with concentric perforated lamellar structure.In particular,Janus concentric perforated lamellar nanoparticles with holes distributed only near the equatorial plane were obtained in both lamella-forming and gyroid-forming di-BCPs,directly reflecting the effect of interfacial frustration.The minority-block domain of the cylider-forming di-BCPs may form hemispherical perforated lamellar structures with holes distributed in parallel layers with a specific orientation.For symmetric di-BCPs,both the A and B domains in each nanoparticle are continuous,interchangeable,and have rotational symmetry.While for gyroid-forming and cylinder-forming di-BCPs,only the majority-block domains are continuous in each nanoparticle,and holes in the minority-block domains usually have rotational symmetry.In the case of a weakly selective cavity wall,the inhomogeneity of the cavity wall results in structures having a specific orientation(such as flower-like and branched structures in gyroid-forming and cylinder-forming di-BCPs)and a perforated wetting layer with uniformly distributed holes.The novel nanoparticles obtained may have potential applications in nanotechnology as functional nanostructures or nanoparticles.
基金financially supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFB3707300)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.22133002,22373089)the support from the Excellent Youth Foundation of Henan Scientific Committee(No.242300421032).
文摘A significant challenge in developing block copolymer photonic crystals is constructing low-symmetric ordered phases,which are essential for achieving a complete photonic band gap.Here,we propose a promising strategy to create low-symmetric ordered morphologies by incorporating shape-anisotropic rod-like side chains into block copolymers.Using dissipative particle dynamics simulations,we demonstrate that block copolymers with longer rod-like side chains can self-assemble into a hexagonally packed columnar phase characterized by a low-symmetric rectangular cross-section.Photonic band structure calculations reveal that this low-symmetric columnar phase can exhibit a complete photonic band gap,with the gap size dependent on the aspect ratio of the rectangular cross-sections of the columns.Our findings suggest an effective approach to constructing low-symmetric photonic crystals through the self-assembly of block copolymers with shape-anisotropic segments.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82202274,82072032,22161016,32025021,12374390,52002380 and 31971292),the National Science and Technology Major Project(No.2023ZD0500902)the Fellowship of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2023M743559)+2 种基金the Member of Youth Innovation Promotion Association Foundation of CAS,China(No.2023310)the Key Scientific and Technological Special Project of Ningbo City(No.2023Z209)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(No.LQ23H180003)。
文摘Recently,stimuli-responsive nanocarriers capable of precision drug release have garnered significant attention in the field of drug delivery.Here,an in-situ dynamic covalent self-assembled(DCS)strategy was utilized to develop a co-delivery system.This assembly was based on a thiol-disulfide-exchange reaction,producing disulfide macrocycles in an oxidizing aerial environment.These macrocycles encapsulated the anti-cancer drug(paclitaxel,PTX)on the surface of gold nanoparticles,which served as photothermal therapy agents during the self-assembly.In the DCS process,the kinetic control over the concentration of each building unit within the reaction system led to the formation of a stable co-delivery nanosystem with optimal drug-loading efficiency.Notably,the high glutathione(GSH)concentrations in tumor cells caused the disulfide macrocycles in nanostructures to break,resulting in drug release.The stimuli-responsive performances of the prepared nanosystems were determined by observing the molecular structures and drug release.The results revealed that the self-assembled nanosystem exhibited GSH-triggered drug release and good photothermal conversion capability under near-infrared light.Moreover,the in vitro and in vivo results revealed that conjugating the targeting molecule of cRGD with co-delivery nanosystem enhanced its biocompatibility,chemo-photothermal anti-cancer effect.Overall,our findings indicated that in-situ DCS strategy enhanced the control over drug loading during the construction of the co-delivery system,paving a way for the development of more functional carriers in nanomedicine.
文摘Dielectric properties of dithiol self-assemble monolayers （SAMs） under ac electric field were presented, Using a Hg-SAM/SAM-Ⅱg junction, the ac impedances of dithiol SAMs were measured using a sinusoidal perturbation of 30 mV （peak to-peak） with the frequency ranging from 1 Hz to 1 MHz at zero bias. The contributions from dithiol SAMs and solvent interlayers were separated due to their different behaviors at ac impedance. The peak position in the loss spectra （the plot; of tgδ vs. frequency） moves to low frequcney with the incrcase of chain length of dithiols. Using a correlation of peak position with the chain length, the active energies of 23-39 meV for dithiol SAMs of C6-C10 under an ac electric field were derived,
文摘The authors have investigated the pH and ionic strength response of self-assembled layers formed by adsorption of amphiphilic weak polyelectrolytes. Using the SFA （Surface Forces Apparatus） the authors measured force-distance profiles of poly （isoprene）-poly （acrylic acid） block copolymers adsorbed on mica. Also by Atomic Force Microscopy the authors captured single polyelectrolyte molecule adsorbed on a surface. The effect of salt concentration （Cs） and pH upon the height of the brush layers was explored mainly by measuring the forces between two adsorbed polyelectrolyte brushes. At pH = 4 our results are in good agreement with the scaling prediction L0 ∝Cs-1/3 Changing the pH from 4 to 10 causes a remarkable swelling of the polymer layer, but only a weak dependence on salt concentration was detected at the higher pH. This can be attributed to the degree of dissociation, which depends on the local pH value. At low pH the polyelectrolyte chains have a low charge density, while on increasing the pH the degree of dissociation rises, and the increased charge density is followed by swelling of the adsorbed layer. The local concentration of ions in the brush is now greater than that of pH = 4 and approximately equivalent to 0.3 M. So the swelling is only weakly dependent on salt concentration in the range 0.01-1.0 M. The results demonstrate the tunable nature of such self-assembled polyelectroiyte brushes whose height and range of interactions, can be systematically controlled by adjusting the pH and ionic strength of the medium.
文摘We investigate tunneling electron induced luminescence from isolated single porphyrin molecules that are decoupled by striped-phase self-assembled monolayer of octanethiol from the underneath Au（111） substrate. Intrinsic single-molecule electroluminescence has been realized by such decoupling at both bias polarities. The photon emission intensity acquired from the molecular lobe is found stronger than that from the molecular center. These re- sults provide useful information on the understanding of electroluminescent behavior and mechanism in molecular tunnel junctions.
文摘In order to improve the cancer-targeting and selective activity of antineoplastic agent [5-fluorouracil （5-FU）], a novel pH-responsive drug delivery system [pullulan acetate/sulfonamide （PA/SDM） conjugate] was synthesized by a diafiltration method. Sulfonamide was grafted to the hydrophobicaUy modified pullulan acetate to enhance the pH sensitivity for better cancer-targeting delivery. 5-FU was loaded into the self-assembled nanoparticles by the same method. The drug-loaded self-assembled nanoparticles were successfully obtained and characterized in terms of particle size, morphology and drug loading and release profile at various pHs. The results showed that the mean diameter of the self-assembled particles was approximately 100nm, with uniform size and good spherical morphology. The nanoparticles showed good stability at pH 7.4, which is equal to that of the normal body fluid, but shrank and aggregated below pH 6.8, which is close to the pH with tumors. The loading efficiency and concentration of released 5-FU was monitored at 269 nm on the UVNis spectrophotometer. The release profile was heavily pH-dependent around phvsiological pH, and the release rate was significantly enhanced under pH of 6.8.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (50475023)
文摘Silane coupling reagent (3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)) was prepared on single-crystal silicon substrates to form two-dimensional self-assembled monolayer (SAM). The terminal-NH2 groups in the film were in situ phosphorylated to -PO(OH)2 group to endow the film with good chemisorption ability. Then La-based thin films were deposited on phosphorylated APTES-SAM in order to make good use of the chemisorption ability of -PO(OH)2 groups. The thickness of the film was determined with ellipsometer, while phase transformation and surface morphology, surface energy, phase composition were analyzed by means of atomic force microscope (AFM), contact angle measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicated that the terminal-NH2 groups could be completely transformed into desirable-PO(OH)2 groups after phosphorylation of APTES-SAM. Detailed XPS analysis of the La3+ peaks revealed that lanthanum element existed in the films in different states. As a result, conclusion could be made that lanthanum reacted with -PO(OH)2 groups on the surface of the substrate by chemical bond which would improve the bonding strength between the film and silicon substrate. Since the La-based thin films were well adhered to the silicon substrate, it might find promising application in the surface-modification of single-crystal Si and SiC in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).
