In recent years, researchers have increasingly directed their focus toward the biomedical field, driven by the goal of engineering polymer systems that possess a unique combination of both electrical conductivity and biodegradability. This convergence of properties holds significant promise, as it addresses a fundamental requirement for biomedical applications: compatibility with biological environments. These polymer systems are viewed as auspicious biomaterials, precisely because they meet this critical criterion. Beyond their biodegradability, these materials offer a range of advantageous characteristics. Their exceptional processability enables facile fabrication into various forms, and their chemical stability ensures reliability in diverse physiological conditions. Moreover, their low production costs make them economically viable options for large-scale applications. Notably, their intrinsic electrical conductivity further distinguishes them, opening up possibilities for applications that demand such functionality. As the focus of this review, a survey into the use of biodegradable conducting polymers in tissue engineering, biomedical implants, and antibacterial applications is conducted.
The non-enzymatic glucose sensing response of pure and Ag-decorated vertically aligned ZnO nanorods grown on Si substrates was investigated. The simple low-temperature hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize the ZnO NRs on the Si substrates, and then Ag decoration was achieved by sputtering. The crystal structure and surface morphologies were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The Ag incorporation on the ZnO NR surfaces was confirmed using EDS mapping and spectra. Furthermore, the chemical states, the variation in oxygen vacancies, and the surface modifications of Ag@ZnO were investigated by XPS analysis. Both the glucose/ZnO/Si and glucose/Ag@ZnO/Si device structures were investigated for their non-enzymatic glucose sensing performances with different glucose concentrations. Based on EIS measurements and amperometric analysis, the Ag@ZnO-NR-based glucose sensor device exhibited a better sensing ability with excellent stability over time than pure ZnO NRs. The Ag@ZnO NR glucose sensor device recorded 2792 µA/(mM·cm2) sensitivity with a lowest detection limit of 1.29 µM.
Heart failure functions as one of the leading global causes of death because it falls under the cardiovascular disease categories. Cardiac tissue engineering advances by developing new tissues to rebuild heart functions in individuals with damaged heart structures as it gives medical treatment possibilities to patients reaching their final stage. Most of the heart tissue consists of cardiomyocytes which make up between 80 to 90 percent of the total organ space. The cardiomyocytes retain their specialized cell structure which includes elongation, but they align to produce contractions as they span into length. After myocardial infarction, doctors need elastic soft platforms to heal the heart tissue because they mimic its natural attributes. Special consideration must be paid to the material selection for appropriate mechanical properties, given that different substances have separate qualities. Stem cell survival becomes higher, and cell differentiation develops more efficiently when a proper scaffold design is implemented, thus enabling tissue repair. Conductive biomaterials demonstrate the best candidate status for cardiac tissue engineering due to their ability to both convey electrical signals and boost biological actions as well as promote cellular communication. Scientists conduct life science research on stem cells because the cells present unique characteristics. Biomaterials with conductive properties within cardiac tissue engineering help the body recover heart tissue while improving the functionality of damaged structures in the myocardium. This article analyzes various conductive biomaterials used in biomedical practices for cardiac tissue healing applications.
9 May 2024 in International Research Journal of Multidisciplinary Technovation
A hybrid nanocomposite of zinc vanadate/cobalt oxide (Zn3(VO4)2/CoO at ratios of 90/10, 80/20, 50/50, and 20/80) was obtained using a simple co-precipitation technique, then calcinated for 4 hrs at 400°C. The surface morphological, vibrational, and structural characteristics of the synthesized hybrid nanocomposites were examined. According to the structural study, orthorhombic Zn3(VO4)2 and cubic crystal systems of CoO with space groups Fm-3m were formed. The functional groups of Zinc Vanadate/Cobalt Oxide were examined using FTIR spectroscopy. A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study reveals the nanosheets structures with the size of 200 nm. The chemical composition and formation of the Zn3(VO4)2/CoO composites were confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical performance of the hybrid nanocomposites was assessed through CV, GCD and impedance analysis. Among the nanocomposites, Zn3(VO4)2/CoO 80/20 exhibited a high specific capacitance value of 564.36 Fg-1 and retaining 97% of their total capacitance even after 3000 cycles.
In this study, pristine Fe2(MoO4)3 and its composite with g-C3N4 were synthesized via a hydrothermal approach. The resultant crystal structure was verified through X-ray diffraction, while energy dispersive spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy were utilized to determine elemental composition and sample morphology, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy further affirmed the successful preparation of the target materials. Both pure and composite samples underwent photo-electrochemical evaluation, revealing that Fe2(MoO4)3 combined with 2 g of g-C3N4 exhibited a remarkable specific capacitance of 1157.16 F g–1 and retained 99.70% of its capacitance after 2500 cycles, demonstrating exceptional electrochemical stability.
Supercapacitor high-power density, rapid charge/discharge rates, long lifespan, and environmental friendliness have positioned them as extremely promising energy storage options. This study examines the physical and chemical characteristics of several biomass materials and their impact on supercapacitor performance. Additionally, we delve into the classification and fundamental concepts of supercapacitors. Biomass-derived carbon compounds exhibit abundant surface features and naturally occurring hierarchical structures that enhance electrochemical reactions, including diffusion and ion transfer. Historically, biomass has been the primary raw material for synthesizing innovative porous carbon compounds, representing a significant advancement in electrode materials for supercapacitors. Our study emphasizes the potential applications of one-, two-, and three-dimensional carbon compounds derived from biomass as electrode materials for supercapacitors by reviewing the latest research in this field. Additionally, we discuss the challenges faced today and the opportunities for enhancing the efficiency of carbon-based supercapacitor electrodes in the future.