Fluorescence behaviour of supramolecular hybrids containing graphene quantum dots and pyrene-derivatized phthalocyanines and porphyrins
- Achadu, Ojodomo John, Managa, Muthumuni, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Managa, Muthumuni , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188953 , vital:44801 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2016.10.029"
- Description: Novel pyrene-derivatized zinc and cobalt phthalocyanines (Pcs) and porphyrins (Ps) were immobilized on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to form GQDs-Pcs and GQDs-Ps supramolecular hybrids via the π–π stacking interaction method. Spectroscopic evidence shows that the resultant hybrids were stable owing to the strong π–π stacking interaction between the GQDs and the respective Pcs and Ps, thus leading to the fabrication of interesting and functional supramolecular hybrids by taking advantage of the delocalized π electron systems of GQDs and the macrocycles. The conjugates showed increased fluorescence quantum yields for the Pcs/Ps, but decreased values for the GQDs in the conjugates. These novel hybrid materials could potentially be deployed for studies in both fundamental and applied perspectives due to the synergistic contributions resulting from the combination of their excellent electronic and optical properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Managa, Muthumuni , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188953 , vital:44801 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2016.10.029"
- Description: Novel pyrene-derivatized zinc and cobalt phthalocyanines (Pcs) and porphyrins (Ps) were immobilized on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to form GQDs-Pcs and GQDs-Ps supramolecular hybrids via the π–π stacking interaction method. Spectroscopic evidence shows that the resultant hybrids were stable owing to the strong π–π stacking interaction between the GQDs and the respective Pcs and Ps, thus leading to the fabrication of interesting and functional supramolecular hybrids by taking advantage of the delocalized π electron systems of GQDs and the macrocycles. The conjugates showed increased fluorescence quantum yields for the Pcs/Ps, but decreased values for the GQDs in the conjugates. These novel hybrid materials could potentially be deployed for studies in both fundamental and applied perspectives due to the synergistic contributions resulting from the combination of their excellent electronic and optical properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Application of graphene quantum dots functionalized with thymine and thymine-appended zinc phthalocyanine as novel photoluminescent nanoprobes
- Achadu, Ojodomo John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188508 , vital:44760 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C6NJ03285K"
- Description: Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) were separately modified with thymine to obtain thymine-functionalized GQDs (T-GQDs) and ZnPc (T-ZnPc). T-GQDs and nanoconjugates of T-ZnPc with pristine GQDs (represented as pristine GQDs–T-ZnPc) or T-GQDs (represented as T-GQDs–T-ZnPc) were employed as fluorescent probes for the detection of mercury(II) ions (Hg2+). The as-synthesized T-GQDs alone demonstrated a highly sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-OFF” process for Hg2+ detection due to the specific interaction between the thymine functionality on the T-GQDs with Hg2+. On the other hand, the fluorescence of pristine GQDs and T-GQDs was quenched (“turn-OFF”) upon coordination with T-ZnPc. However, the fluorescence emission was selectively restored (“turn-ON” process) in the presence of Hg2+ resulting in the sensitive detection of Hg2+ in the nanomolar concentration range (limit of detection = 0.05 nM, for the pristine GQDs–T-ZnPc probe). The probe containing pristine GQDs and the T-ZnPc complex demonstrated a higher specific and sensitive recognition of Hg2+ as compared to the T-GQDs alone or T-GQDs–T-ZnPc probes which are ascribed to the fluorescence “turn-ON” process of the former. Screening of different metal ions and counter ions proved that the probes are specifically suited for Hg2+ detection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188508 , vital:44760 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C6NJ03285K"
- Description: Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) were separately modified with thymine to obtain thymine-functionalized GQDs (T-GQDs) and ZnPc (T-ZnPc). T-GQDs and nanoconjugates of T-ZnPc with pristine GQDs (represented as pristine GQDs–T-ZnPc) or T-GQDs (represented as T-GQDs–T-ZnPc) were employed as fluorescent probes for the detection of mercury(II) ions (Hg2+). The as-synthesized T-GQDs alone demonstrated a highly sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-OFF” process for Hg2+ detection due to the specific interaction between the thymine functionality on the T-GQDs with Hg2+. On the other hand, the fluorescence of pristine GQDs and T-GQDs was quenched (“turn-OFF”) upon coordination with T-ZnPc. However, the fluorescence emission was selectively restored (“turn-ON” process) in the presence of Hg2+ resulting in the sensitive detection of Hg2+ in the nanomolar concentration range (limit of detection = 0.05 nM, for the pristine GQDs–T-ZnPc probe). The probe containing pristine GQDs and the T-ZnPc complex demonstrated a higher specific and sensitive recognition of Hg2+ as compared to the T-GQDs alone or T-GQDs–T-ZnPc probes which are ascribed to the fluorescence “turn-ON” process of the former. Screening of different metal ions and counter ions proved that the probes are specifically suited for Hg2+ detection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Graphene quantum dots decorated with maleimide and zinc tetramaleimido-phthalocyanine: Application in the design of “OFF-ON” fluorescence sensors for biothiols
- Achadu, Ojodomo John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188282 , vital:44741 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2017.01.031"
- Description: The fabrication of maleimide-derivatized graphene quantum dots (M-GQDs) and zinc phthalocyanine (2) as novel sensor probes for the selective detection of biothiols (cysteine, homocysteine or glutathione) through the rapid and specific Michael addition reaction between biothiols and the maleimide-derivatized probes is presented in this study. GQDs directly functionalized with maleimide units (M-GQDs) were synthesized and deployed for biothiols recognition following the principle of Michael addition. M-GQDs probe was found to be highly sensitive and selective towards biothiols detection in the nanomolar range in aqueous solution and at physiological pH (7.0). On the other hand, non-covalent interaction between pristine GQDs and novel zinc tetramaleimido-derivatized phthalocyanine resulted in the quenching of the pristine GQDs fluorescence emission which was switched back to the “ON” mode by Michael addition mechanism in the presence of biothiols. Tested relevant biomolecules did not interfere in the quantitative recognition of the biothiols. The probes showed to be highly sensitive, specific and selective for biothiols sensing in simulated real samples.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188282 , vital:44741 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2017.01.031"
- Description: The fabrication of maleimide-derivatized graphene quantum dots (M-GQDs) and zinc phthalocyanine (2) as novel sensor probes for the selective detection of biothiols (cysteine, homocysteine or glutathione) through the rapid and specific Michael addition reaction between biothiols and the maleimide-derivatized probes is presented in this study. GQDs directly functionalized with maleimide units (M-GQDs) were synthesized and deployed for biothiols recognition following the principle of Michael addition. M-GQDs probe was found to be highly sensitive and selective towards biothiols detection in the nanomolar range in aqueous solution and at physiological pH (7.0). On the other hand, non-covalent interaction between pristine GQDs and novel zinc tetramaleimido-derivatized phthalocyanine resulted in the quenching of the pristine GQDs fluorescence emission which was switched back to the “ON” mode by Michael addition mechanism in the presence of biothiols. Tested relevant biomolecules did not interfere in the quantitative recognition of the biothiols. The probes showed to be highly sensitive, specific and selective for biothiols sensing in simulated real samples.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Graphene quantum dots coordinated to mercaptopyridine-substituted phthalocyanines: Characterization and application as fluorescence “turn ON” nanoprobes
- Achadu, Ojodomo John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188293 , vital:44742 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2016.11.043"
- Description: This study reports on the design of novel nanoconjugates of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and tetra or octa-mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc and aluminium phthalocyanines (Pcs) deployed as fluorescence “turn ON” nanoprobes. The phthalocyanines were separately adsorbed onto the planar structure of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) via π-π stacking interaction to form GQDs-mercaptopyridine Pcs nanoconjugates. The quaternized Pc complexes could also interact with the GQDs through electrostatic attraction due to the positive charges on the Pcs ring substituents and the negative charges on the surface of GQDs. The fluorescence emission of the GQDs was quenched upon coordination to the respective Pcs. However, the fluorescence emission was “turned ON” in the presence of Hg2 + employed as a test analyte. The mechanism of the “turn ON” of the GQDs emission in the nanoconjugates is ascribed to the strong affinity of Hg2 + to bind with the bridging sulfur on the Pcs periphery thereby disrupting the π-π stacking interaction between the GQDs and the Pcs with a consequent “turn ON” of the coordinated GQDs' fluorescence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188293 , vital:44742 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2016.11.043"
- Description: This study reports on the design of novel nanoconjugates of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and tetra or octa-mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc and aluminium phthalocyanines (Pcs) deployed as fluorescence “turn ON” nanoprobes. The phthalocyanines were separately adsorbed onto the planar structure of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) via π-π stacking interaction to form GQDs-mercaptopyridine Pcs nanoconjugates. The quaternized Pc complexes could also interact with the GQDs through electrostatic attraction due to the positive charges on the Pcs ring substituents and the negative charges on the surface of GQDs. The fluorescence emission of the GQDs was quenched upon coordination to the respective Pcs. However, the fluorescence emission was “turned ON” in the presence of Hg2 + employed as a test analyte. The mechanism of the “turn ON” of the GQDs emission in the nanoconjugates is ascribed to the strong affinity of Hg2 + to bind with the bridging sulfur on the Pcs periphery thereby disrupting the π-π stacking interaction between the GQDs and the Pcs with a consequent “turn ON” of the coordinated GQDs' fluorescence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Graphene quantum dots anchored onto mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc phthalocyanine-Au@ Ag nanoparticle hybrid: Application as fluorescence “off-on-off” sensor for Hg2+ and biothiols
- Achadu, Ojodomo John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188194 , vital:44731 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dyepig.2017.06.002"
- Description: Novel supramolecular hybrid containing polyethyleneimine-functionalized graphene quantum dots (PEI-GQDs) and mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc phthalocyanine (Pc)-Au@Ag nano-alloys is presented in this study. The designed hybrid was employed as a dual fluorescence nanoprobe for Hg2+ and biothiol detection in aqueous solution using PEI-GQDs as the fluorescence switching signal probe. The dual sensing platform for the analytes detection is firstly, based on the quenching (turn “OFF”) of the PEI-GQDs fluorescence upon π-π interaction or electrostatic attraction with Pc-Au@Ag conjugate. The quenched fluorescence can be switched back to the “ON” mode in the presence of Hg2+ and switched “OFF” again when biothiols are introduced to capture the Hg2+ ion via the formation of the strong metal-thiol bond (Hg-S). The “off-on-off” processes were modulated by different amounts of Hg2+ and biothiols. The nanoprobes were found to be highly stable and selective towards the target analytes in the presence of other amino acids and metal ions. Also, the probes were successfully deployed in the assay of the test analytes in spiked samples.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188194 , vital:44731 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dyepig.2017.06.002"
- Description: Novel supramolecular hybrid containing polyethyleneimine-functionalized graphene quantum dots (PEI-GQDs) and mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc phthalocyanine (Pc)-Au@Ag nano-alloys is presented in this study. The designed hybrid was employed as a dual fluorescence nanoprobe for Hg2+ and biothiol detection in aqueous solution using PEI-GQDs as the fluorescence switching signal probe. The dual sensing platform for the analytes detection is firstly, based on the quenching (turn “OFF”) of the PEI-GQDs fluorescence upon π-π interaction or electrostatic attraction with Pc-Au@Ag conjugate. The quenched fluorescence can be switched back to the “ON” mode in the presence of Hg2+ and switched “OFF” again when biothiols are introduced to capture the Hg2+ ion via the formation of the strong metal-thiol bond (Hg-S). The “off-on-off” processes were modulated by different amounts of Hg2+ and biothiols. The nanoprobes were found to be highly stable and selective towards the target analytes in the presence of other amino acids and metal ions. Also, the probes were successfully deployed in the assay of the test analytes in spiked samples.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Photophysical properties of a series of alloyed and non-alloyed water-soluble l-cysteine-capped core quantum dots
- Adegoke, Oluwasesan, Nyokong, Tebello, Forbes, Patricia B
- Authors: Adegoke, Oluwasesan , Nyokong, Tebello , Forbes, Patricia B
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188486 , vital:44758 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2016.10.276"
- Description: Photophysical properties of quantum dots (QDs) such as their photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY), exciton lifetime and PL stability are important parameters used to unravel their chemical and physical characteristics. In this work, we have comparatively investigated the photophysical properties of a series of L-cysteine-capped non-alloyed (CdTe and CdSe) and alloyed (CdZnTe, CdSeS, CdSeTe and CdSeTeS) core QDs. Each of the QDs varied in their size and PL emission wavelength. We observe no physical relationship between the PL QY of the QDs and their PL stability. Based on the PL stability assessment, CdTe QDs with a high PL QY value of 88% exhibited poor PL stability while moderate PL stability was observed for CdZnTe (QY = 78%); CdSe (QY = 3%); and CdSeTe QDs (QY = ∼3%). Alloyed CdSeS (QY = ∼69%) and CdSeTeS (QY = 23%) QDs exhibited good PL stability and can serve as potential fluorophores for a wide range of chemical and biological applications. Generally, it is proposed that the structural nature of the QDs played a significant role in their overall photophysical properties. The information provided in this work will assist in the selection of core QDs suitable for different applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Adegoke, Oluwasesan , Nyokong, Tebello , Forbes, Patricia B
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188486 , vital:44758 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2016.10.276"
- Description: Photophysical properties of quantum dots (QDs) such as their photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY), exciton lifetime and PL stability are important parameters used to unravel their chemical and physical characteristics. In this work, we have comparatively investigated the photophysical properties of a series of L-cysteine-capped non-alloyed (CdTe and CdSe) and alloyed (CdZnTe, CdSeS, CdSeTe and CdSeTeS) core QDs. Each of the QDs varied in their size and PL emission wavelength. We observe no physical relationship between the PL QY of the QDs and their PL stability. Based on the PL stability assessment, CdTe QDs with a high PL QY value of 88% exhibited poor PL stability while moderate PL stability was observed for CdZnTe (QY = 78%); CdSe (QY = 3%); and CdSeTe QDs (QY = ∼3%). Alloyed CdSeS (QY = ∼69%) and CdSeTeS (QY = 23%) QDs exhibited good PL stability and can serve as potential fluorophores for a wide range of chemical and biological applications. Generally, it is proposed that the structural nature of the QDs played a significant role in their overall photophysical properties. The information provided in this work will assist in the selection of core QDs suitable for different applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Azide-derivatized gold nanosphere “clicked” to indium and zinc phthalocyanines for improved nonlinear optical limiting
- Bankole, Owolabi M, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188249 , vital:44738 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2017.01.088"
- Description: We report on the conjugation of azide-derivatized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to alkyne moieties of ZnPc and InPc via azide-alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition reaction to form phthalocyanines-AuNPs (MPc-AuNPs) conjugates. The detailed structural characterizations of the composites were in good agreement with the expected results. The nonlinear absorption coefficients and other nonlinear optical limiting parameters were almost two times larger for the conjugates compared to free phthalocyanines. We established direct relationship between improved photophysical characterizations and enhanced nonlinear effects of reverse saturable absorption mechanisms favoured by excited triplet absorption of the phthalocyanines in the presence of AuNPs. The combination of InPc with AuNPs resulted in the lowest limiting intensity value of 0.06 J/cm2, hence the best performance in terms of optical limiting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188249 , vital:44738 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2017.01.088"
- Description: We report on the conjugation of azide-derivatized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to alkyne moieties of ZnPc and InPc via azide-alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition reaction to form phthalocyanines-AuNPs (MPc-AuNPs) conjugates. The detailed structural characterizations of the composites were in good agreement with the expected results. The nonlinear absorption coefficients and other nonlinear optical limiting parameters were almost two times larger for the conjugates compared to free phthalocyanines. We established direct relationship between improved photophysical characterizations and enhanced nonlinear effects of reverse saturable absorption mechanisms favoured by excited triplet absorption of the phthalocyanines in the presence of AuNPs. The combination of InPc with AuNPs resulted in the lowest limiting intensity value of 0.06 J/cm2, hence the best performance in terms of optical limiting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Nonlinear interactions of zinc phthalocyanine-graphene quantum dots nanocomposites: Investigation of effects of surface functionalization with heteroatoms
- Bankole, Owolabi M, Achadu, Ojodomo J, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Achadu, Ojodomo J , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188474 , vital:44757 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10895-016-2008-8"
- Description: This study reports the development of functional optical limiting materials composed of pristine graphene (GQDs), nitrogen-doped (NGQDs) and sulfur-nitrogen co-doped (SNGQDs) graphene quantum dots covalently linked to mono-amino substituted zinc phthalocyanine (Pc). Open aperture Z-scan technique was employed to monitor the behaviour of the conjugates under tightly focussed Gaussian laser beam using a mode-locked Nd:YAG laser delivering 10 nanosecond (FWHM) pulses at 532 nm wavelength. Nonlinear effect due to reverse saturable absorption was the predominant mechanism; and was attributed to the moderately enhanced triplet population. The major factor(s) responsible for the enhanced nonlinearities in the Pc-NGQDs and Pc-SNGQDs was fully described and attributed to the surface defects caused by the presence of heteroatoms of N and S.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bankole, Owolabi M , Achadu, Ojodomo J , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188474 , vital:44757 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10895-016-2008-8"
- Description: This study reports the development of functional optical limiting materials composed of pristine graphene (GQDs), nitrogen-doped (NGQDs) and sulfur-nitrogen co-doped (SNGQDs) graphene quantum dots covalently linked to mono-amino substituted zinc phthalocyanine (Pc). Open aperture Z-scan technique was employed to monitor the behaviour of the conjugates under tightly focussed Gaussian laser beam using a mode-locked Nd:YAG laser delivering 10 nanosecond (FWHM) pulses at 532 nm wavelength. Nonlinear effect due to reverse saturable absorption was the predominant mechanism; and was attributed to the moderately enhanced triplet population. The major factor(s) responsible for the enhanced nonlinearities in the Pc-NGQDs and Pc-SNGQDs was fully described and attributed to the surface defects caused by the presence of heteroatoms of N and S.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of substituents on the electrocatalytic activity of cobalt phthalocyanines when conjugated to graphene quantum dots
- Centane, Sixolile, Achadu, Ojodomo John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Centane, Sixolile , Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188237 , vital:44737 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/elan.201700252"
- Description: We report on the π–π interactions between graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and the following cobalt phthalocyanine derivatives: cobalt monocarboxyphenoxy phthalocyanine (complex 1), cobalt tetracarboxyphenoxyphthalocyanine (complex 2), and cobalt tetraaminophenoxy phthalocyanine (complex 3). The conjugates (conj) with GQDs are represented as 1@GQDs(conj), 2@GQDs(conj) and 3@GQDs(conj), respectively. The resulting phthalocyanine/GQDs conjugates were adsorbed on containing a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) using the drop and dry method. We explore the electrochemical properties of phthalocyanines functionalized with both electron withdrawing groups and electron donating groups when non-covalently linked to the π-electron rich graphene quantum dots. GCE/3, GCE/2@GQDs(conj) and GCE/1@GQDs(conj) had the lowest limits of detection (LOD). Sequentially modified electrodes showed less favourable detection limits compared to the conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Centane, Sixolile , Achadu, Ojodomo John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188237 , vital:44737 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/elan.201700252"
- Description: We report on the π–π interactions between graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and the following cobalt phthalocyanine derivatives: cobalt monocarboxyphenoxy phthalocyanine (complex 1), cobalt tetracarboxyphenoxyphthalocyanine (complex 2), and cobalt tetraaminophenoxy phthalocyanine (complex 3). The conjugates (conj) with GQDs are represented as 1@GQDs(conj), 2@GQDs(conj) and 3@GQDs(conj), respectively. The resulting phthalocyanine/GQDs conjugates were adsorbed on containing a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) using the drop and dry method. We explore the electrochemical properties of phthalocyanines functionalized with both electron withdrawing groups and electron donating groups when non-covalently linked to the π-electron rich graphene quantum dots. GCE/3, GCE/2@GQDs(conj) and GCE/1@GQDs(conj) had the lowest limits of detection (LOD). Sequentially modified electrodes showed less favourable detection limits compared to the conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of symmetry and the number of positive charges on the photocatalytic activity of indium phthalocyanines when embedded in electrospun fibers
- Chakona, Gamuchirai, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Chakona, Gamuchirai , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188304 , vital:44743 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ica.2016.12.025"
- Description: Photooxidations of bisphenol A and 4-chlorophenol were carried out in this study using two asymmetric indium(III) phthalocyanines photosensitizers: the first consisting of one quaternized 4-pyridyloxyl and no other substituents (complex 1) and the second containing three quaternized 4-pyridylsulfanyl units and one aminophenoxy (complex 3). The asymmetry of complex 3 is additionally caused by the presence of two linking atoms (O and S). The symmetrically substituted indium(III) phthalocyanine containing four quaternized 4-pyridyloxyl units (complex 2) was also studied. The complexes were embedded in electrospun polystyrene fiber for heterogeneous photocatalytic transformation of 4-chlorophenol and bisphenol A. When immobilized on electrospun fibers, complexes 1, 2 and 3 gave singlet oxygen values of 0.31, 0.39 and 0.50 in water, respectively. Complex 3 showed the best photocatalytic behavior with observed rate constants of 2.8 × 10−3 min−1 for bisphenol A and 3.8 × 10−3 min−1 for 4-chlorophenol.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Chakona, Gamuchirai , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188304 , vital:44743 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ica.2016.12.025"
- Description: Photooxidations of bisphenol A and 4-chlorophenol were carried out in this study using two asymmetric indium(III) phthalocyanines photosensitizers: the first consisting of one quaternized 4-pyridyloxyl and no other substituents (complex 1) and the second containing three quaternized 4-pyridylsulfanyl units and one aminophenoxy (complex 3). The asymmetry of complex 3 is additionally caused by the presence of two linking atoms (O and S). The symmetrically substituted indium(III) phthalocyanine containing four quaternized 4-pyridyloxyl units (complex 2) was also studied. The complexes were embedded in electrospun polystyrene fiber for heterogeneous photocatalytic transformation of 4-chlorophenol and bisphenol A. When immobilized on electrospun fibers, complexes 1, 2 and 3 gave singlet oxygen values of 0.31, 0.39 and 0.50 in water, respectively. Complex 3 showed the best photocatalytic behavior with observed rate constants of 2.8 × 10−3 min−1 for bisphenol A and 3.8 × 10−3 min−1 for 4-chlorophenol.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Investigation of photophysicochemical properties of zinc phthalocyanines conjugated to metallic nanoparticles
- Dube, Edith, Nwaji, Njemuwa, Oluwole, David O, Mack, John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Nwaji, Njemuwa , Oluwole, David O , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233425 , vital:50089 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2017.09.020"
- Description: The syntheses of zinc(II) tetra–[3–(4–phenoxy) (propanoic acid) phthalocyanine] (2) and zinc(II) mono–[3–(4–phenoxy) (propanoic acid) phthalocyanine (3) are reported in this work. Compounds 2 and 3 were covalently linked to glutathione capped silver (AgNPs–GSH), gold (AuNPs–GSH) and silver-gold alloy (Ag3Au1NPs–GSH) nanoparticles (NPs) via an amide bond formation to afford the conjugates: 2–AgNPs–GSH, 3–AgNPs–GSH, 2–AuNPs–GSH, 3–AuNPs–GSH, 2-Ag3Au1NPs–GSH and 3-Ag3Au1NPs–GSH. The photophysicochemical behaviours of the compounds and their conjugates with NPs were assessed in solution. The conjugates afforded a decrease in fluorescence quantum yields and lifetimes with improved triplet quantum yields in comparison to the compounds. Accordingly, the AgNPs and AuNPs conjugates with the compounds afforded high singlet quantum yields. On the contrary, the conjugates of the alloy afforded decreased singlet quantum yields probably due to the screening effect. The compounds and their conjugates with NPs could serve as a viable and efficacious photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Nwaji, Njemuwa , Oluwole, David O , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233425 , vital:50089 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2017.09.020"
- Description: The syntheses of zinc(II) tetra–[3–(4–phenoxy) (propanoic acid) phthalocyanine] (2) and zinc(II) mono–[3–(4–phenoxy) (propanoic acid) phthalocyanine (3) are reported in this work. Compounds 2 and 3 were covalently linked to glutathione capped silver (AgNPs–GSH), gold (AuNPs–GSH) and silver-gold alloy (Ag3Au1NPs–GSH) nanoparticles (NPs) via an amide bond formation to afford the conjugates: 2–AgNPs–GSH, 3–AgNPs–GSH, 2–AuNPs–GSH, 3–AuNPs–GSH, 2-Ag3Au1NPs–GSH and 3-Ag3Au1NPs–GSH. The photophysicochemical behaviours of the compounds and their conjugates with NPs were assessed in solution. The conjugates afforded a decrease in fluorescence quantum yields and lifetimes with improved triplet quantum yields in comparison to the compounds. Accordingly, the AgNPs and AuNPs conjugates with the compounds afforded high singlet quantum yields. On the contrary, the conjugates of the alloy afforded decreased singlet quantum yields probably due to the screening effect. The compounds and their conjugates with NPs could serve as a viable and efficacious photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Photophysicochemical behaviour of anionic indium phthalocyanine when grafted onto AgxAuy and porous silica nanoparticles
- Dube, Edith, Oluwole, David O, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Oluwole, David O , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188899 , vital:44796 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jlumin.2017.05.071"
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis of glutathione functionalised Ag3Au1 (Ag rich alloy, denoted as AgAu) and Ag1Au3 (Au rich alloy – denoted as AuAg) nano alloys as well as aminopropyl triethoxylsilane capped Ag1Au3 doped silica nanoparticles (NPs). The NPs were covalently linked to indium(III) chloride 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)–tetra–(3–carboxyphenoxy)phthalocyanine (1) via amide bond to form 1–AgAuNPs–GSH and 1–AuAgNPs–GSH. The AgAuNPs were also doped into aminopropyl triethoxylsilane (APTES) silica NPs (SiNPs-APTES) followed by linkage to complex 1 to form 1–AgAu-SiNPs–APTES. The photophysicochemical behaviour of complex 1 and its nanoconjugates were investigated. Decrease in the fluorescence quantum yields and lifetimes was observed in the conjugates in comparison to 1 alone. The singlet oxygen quantum yield for 1–AgAuNPs–GSH and 1–AuAgNPs–GSH decreased probably due to the screening effect caused by the NPs, while that of 1–AgAu-SiNPs–APTES increased in dimethylsulfoxide probably due to the permeability of the porous silica matrix to molecular oxygen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Oluwole, David O , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188899 , vital:44796 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jlumin.2017.05.071"
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis of glutathione functionalised Ag3Au1 (Ag rich alloy, denoted as AgAu) and Ag1Au3 (Au rich alloy – denoted as AuAg) nano alloys as well as aminopropyl triethoxylsilane capped Ag1Au3 doped silica nanoparticles (NPs). The NPs were covalently linked to indium(III) chloride 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)–tetra–(3–carboxyphenoxy)phthalocyanine (1) via amide bond to form 1–AgAuNPs–GSH and 1–AuAgNPs–GSH. The AgAuNPs were also doped into aminopropyl triethoxylsilane (APTES) silica NPs (SiNPs-APTES) followed by linkage to complex 1 to form 1–AgAu-SiNPs–APTES. The photophysicochemical behaviour of complex 1 and its nanoconjugates were investigated. Decrease in the fluorescence quantum yields and lifetimes was observed in the conjugates in comparison to 1 alone. The singlet oxygen quantum yield for 1–AgAuNPs–GSH and 1–AuAgNPs–GSH decreased probably due to the screening effect caused by the NPs, while that of 1–AgAu-SiNPs–APTES increased in dimethylsulfoxide probably due to the permeability of the porous silica matrix to molecular oxygen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Photolytic changes in the morphology of porphyrin-phthalocyanine nanostructures (P-PcNs) in the presence of platinum and gold salts
- George, Reama C, D'Souza, Sarah, Durmus, Mahmut, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: George, Reama C , D'Souza, Sarah , Durmus, Mahmut , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190416 , vital:44992 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/24701556.2017.1284085"
- Description: Porphyrin-phthalocyanine nanostructures (P-PcNs) have been fabricated by electrostatic self-assembly of two oppositely charged molecules. The negatively charged molecule, meso-tetra-(4-phenylsulphonate)porphyrin (HT) and the positively charged species; {1,(4)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl(3-pyridyloxy) phthlocyaninato] chloro gallium(III)} sulphate, {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl{(2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyaninato} hydroxy manganese(III)} sulphate, {1,(4)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl-(3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate, {2,3-octakis-{[(N-methyl-2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyaninato] acetato manganese(III)} sulphate, {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl(3-pyridyloxy) phthlocyaninato] choro gallium(III)} sulphate, {2,3-octakis-[(N-methy-3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate, and {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl (3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images showed that the formed nanostructures ranged from nanosheets to nanorods and nanotubes. The UV-Vis spectra confirmed that the molecules formed J-aggregates. The P-PcNs were exposed to incandescence light in the presence of platinum and gold salts. It was observed that the presence of platinum salts resulted in the destruction of the P-PcNs with possible formation of a Pt-Pc complex. While with the gold salt, the structures of P-PcNs were not only retained but were also enhanced to longer nanorods and nanofibers with the formation of gold nanoparticles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: George, Reama C , D'Souza, Sarah , Durmus, Mahmut , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190416 , vital:44992 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/24701556.2017.1284085"
- Description: Porphyrin-phthalocyanine nanostructures (P-PcNs) have been fabricated by electrostatic self-assembly of two oppositely charged molecules. The negatively charged molecule, meso-tetra-(4-phenylsulphonate)porphyrin (HT) and the positively charged species; {1,(4)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl(3-pyridyloxy) phthlocyaninato] chloro gallium(III)} sulphate, {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl{(2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyaninato} hydroxy manganese(III)} sulphate, {1,(4)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl-(3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate, {2,3-octakis-{[(N-methyl-2-mercaptopyridine) phthalocyaninato] acetato manganese(III)} sulphate, {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl(3-pyridyloxy) phthlocyaninato] choro gallium(III)} sulphate, {2,3-octakis-[(N-methy-3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate, and {2,(3)-tetrakis-[(N-methyl (3-pyridyloxy) phthalocyaninato] chloro indium(III)} sulphate. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images showed that the formed nanostructures ranged from nanosheets to nanorods and nanotubes. The UV-Vis spectra confirmed that the molecules formed J-aggregates. The P-PcNs were exposed to incandescence light in the presence of platinum and gold salts. It was observed that the presence of platinum salts resulted in the destruction of the P-PcNs with possible formation of a Pt-Pc complex. While with the gold salt, the structures of P-PcNs were not only retained but were also enhanced to longer nanorods and nanofibers with the formation of gold nanoparticles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Platinum nanoparticles supported on carbon nanodots as anode catalysts for direct alcohol fuel cells
- Gwebu, Sandile Surprise, Nomngongo, Philiswa Nosizo, Mashazi, Philani Nkosinathi, Maxakato, Nobanathi Wendy, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Gwebu, Sandile Surprise , Nomngongo, Philiswa Nosizo , Mashazi, Philani Nkosinathi , Maxakato, Nobanathi Wendy , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233118 , vital:50058 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.20964/2017.07.09"
- Description: Carbon nanodots (CNDs) were successfully synthesized employing a cheap and green method using oats as a starting material. The Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst was synthesized using carbon nanodots as a reductant and support material without adjusting the pH of the solution. The synthesized materials were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller Nitrogen adsorption (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The FTIR results proved that the synthesized carbon nanodots contain carboxylic acid functional groups which facilitate the attachment of Pt nanoparticles. The BET surface area for carbon nanodots was found to be 312.5 m2 g -1 two times higher than that of commercial carbon. XPS results revealed the composition of the materials and the oxidation states of Pt in Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst. TEM images proved that the materials were of the nanoscale. XRD peaks proved that the carbon nanodots were amorphous and Pt (111) was present in the Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst. ICPOES determined the platinum concentration in Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst to be 8.12%. The electrochemical oxidation of methanol and ethanol were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). Cyclic voltammetry results showed that the Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst prepared by this method exhibit superior performance for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation at room temperature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Platinum nanoparticles supported on carbon nanodots as anode catalysts for direct alcohol fuel cells
- Authors: Gwebu, Sandile Surprise , Nomngongo, Philiswa Nosizo , Mashazi, Philani Nkosinathi , Maxakato, Nobanathi Wendy , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233118 , vital:50058 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.20964/2017.07.09"
- Description: Carbon nanodots (CNDs) were successfully synthesized employing a cheap and green method using oats as a starting material. The Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst was synthesized using carbon nanodots as a reductant and support material without adjusting the pH of the solution. The synthesized materials were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller Nitrogen adsorption (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The FTIR results proved that the synthesized carbon nanodots contain carboxylic acid functional groups which facilitate the attachment of Pt nanoparticles. The BET surface area for carbon nanodots was found to be 312.5 m2 g -1 two times higher than that of commercial carbon. XPS results revealed the composition of the materials and the oxidation states of Pt in Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst. TEM images proved that the materials were of the nanoscale. XRD peaks proved that the carbon nanodots were amorphous and Pt (111) was present in the Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst. ICPOES determined the platinum concentration in Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst to be 8.12%. The electrochemical oxidation of methanol and ethanol were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). Cyclic voltammetry results showed that the Pt/CNDs electrocatalyst prepared by this method exhibit superior performance for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation at room temperature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Optical Limiting Properties of 3, 5-Dithienylenevinylene BODIPY Dyes at 532 nm
- Harris, Jessica, Gai, Lizhi, Kubheka, Gugu, Mack, John, Nyokong, Tebello, Shen, Zhen
- Authors: Harris, Jessica , Gai, Lizhi , Kubheka, Gugu , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello , Shen, Zhen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/189274 , vital:44833 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/chem.201702503"
- Description: The optical limiting properties of a series of near infrared absorbing 3,5-dithienylenevinylene BODIPY (borondipyrromethene) dyes (1–3) that contain donor and acceptor moieties in their p-conjugation systems were studied by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range. A strong reverse saturable absorption response was observed when the compounds are embedded into poly(bisphenol carbonate A) polymer thin films, which demonstrates that BODIPY dyes with this type of structure are suitable for use in optical limiting applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Harris, Jessica , Gai, Lizhi , Kubheka, Gugu , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello , Shen, Zhen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/189274 , vital:44833 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/chem.201702503"
- Description: The optical limiting properties of a series of near infrared absorbing 3,5-dithienylenevinylene BODIPY (borondipyrromethene) dyes (1–3) that contain donor and acceptor moieties in their p-conjugation systems were studied by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range. A strong reverse saturable absorption response was observed when the compounds are embedded into poly(bisphenol carbonate A) polymer thin films, which demonstrates that BODIPY dyes with this type of structure are suitable for use in optical limiting applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Optical limiting properties of 2, 6-dibromo-3, 5-distyrylBODIPY dyes at 532 nm
- Kubheka, Gugu, Mack, John, Kobayashi, Nagao, Kimura, Mitsumi, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Kubheka, Gugu , Mack, John , Kobayashi, Nagao , Kimura, Mitsumi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190405 , vital:44991 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424617500511"
- Description: Optical limiting properties of 2,6-dibromo-3,5-distyrylBODIPY dyes were investigated by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range. A strong reverse saturable absorption response was observed even in solution, which suggests that compounds of this type are potentially suitable for use in optical limiting applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kubheka, Gugu , Mack, John , Kobayashi, Nagao , Kimura, Mitsumi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190405 , vital:44991 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424617500511"
- Description: Optical limiting properties of 2,6-dibromo-3,5-distyrylBODIPY dyes were investigated by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range. A strong reverse saturable absorption response was observed even in solution, which suggests that compounds of this type are potentially suitable for use in optical limiting applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Optical limiting properties of 3, 5-diphenyldibenzo-azaBODIPY at 532 nm
- Kubheka, Gugu, Achadu, Ojodomo J, Mack, John, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Kubheka, Gugu , Achadu, Ojodomo J , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232761 , vital:50022 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C7NJ01503H"
- Description: Optical limiting properties of 3,5-diphenyldibenzo-azaBODIPY were investigated by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range and a strong reverse saturable absorption (RSA) response was observed, which can be readily attributed to a two-photon absorption (TPA) assisted excited state absorption (ESA) mechanism in the singlet manifold based on a consideration of the other photophysical properties. The effect of solvent and incorporation into polymer thin films has been investigated in depth. The results indicate that the selection of solvents that enhance the population of the S1 excited state on the nanosecond timescale or embedding the azaBODIPY dye into polymer thin films significantly improves the optical limiting properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kubheka, Gugu , Achadu, Ojodomo J , Mack, John , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232761 , vital:50022 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C7NJ01503H"
- Description: Optical limiting properties of 3,5-diphenyldibenzo-azaBODIPY were investigated by using the z-scan technique at 532 nm in the nanosecond pulse range and a strong reverse saturable absorption (RSA) response was observed, which can be readily attributed to a two-photon absorption (TPA) assisted excited state absorption (ESA) mechanism in the singlet manifold based on a consideration of the other photophysical properties. The effect of solvent and incorporation into polymer thin films has been investigated in depth. The results indicate that the selection of solvents that enhance the population of the S1 excited state on the nanosecond timescale or embedding the azaBODIPY dye into polymer thin films significantly improves the optical limiting properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Improved photocatalytic degradation of Orange G using hybrid nanofibers
- Ledwaba, Mpho, Masilela, Nkosiphile, Nyokong, Tebello, Antunes, Edith M
- Authors: Ledwaba, Mpho , Masilela, Nkosiphile , Nyokong, Tebello , Antunes, Edith M
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/239632 , vital:50750 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-017-3853-3"
- Description: Functionalised electrospun polyamide-6 (PA-6) nanofibres incorporating gadolinium oxide nanoparticles conjugated to zinc tetracarboxyphenoxy phthalocyanine (ZnTCPPc) as the sensitizer were prepared for the photocatalytic degradation of Orange G. Fibres incorporating the phthalocyanine alone or a mixture of the nanoparticles and phthalocyanine were also generated. The singlet oxygen-generating ability of the sensitizer was shown to be maintained within the fibre mat, with the singlet oxygen quantum yields increasing upon incorporation of the magnetic nanoparticles. Consequently, the rate of the photodegradation of Orange G was observed to increase with an increase in singlet oxygen quantum yield. A reduction in the half-lives for the functionalised nanofibres was recorded in the presence of the magnetic nanoparticles, indicating an improvement in the efficiency of the degradation process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ledwaba, Mpho , Masilela, Nkosiphile , Nyokong, Tebello , Antunes, Edith M
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/239632 , vital:50750 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-017-3853-3"
- Description: Functionalised electrospun polyamide-6 (PA-6) nanofibres incorporating gadolinium oxide nanoparticles conjugated to zinc tetracarboxyphenoxy phthalocyanine (ZnTCPPc) as the sensitizer were prepared for the photocatalytic degradation of Orange G. Fibres incorporating the phthalocyanine alone or a mixture of the nanoparticles and phthalocyanine were also generated. The singlet oxygen-generating ability of the sensitizer was shown to be maintained within the fibre mat, with the singlet oxygen quantum yields increasing upon incorporation of the magnetic nanoparticles. Consequently, the rate of the photodegradation of Orange G was observed to increase with an increase in singlet oxygen quantum yield. A reduction in the half-lives for the functionalised nanofibres was recorded in the presence of the magnetic nanoparticles, indicating an improvement in the efficiency of the degradation process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Flexible Metal–Porphyrin Dimers (M= MnIIICl, CoII, NiII, CuII)
- Li, Minzhi, Zhang, Qian, Xu, Li, Zhu, Weihua, Mack, John, May, Aviwe K, Nyokong, Tebello, Kobayashi, Nagao, Liang, Xu
- Authors: Li, Minzhi , Zhang, Qian , Xu, Li , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , May, Aviwe K , Nyokong, Tebello , Kobayashi, Nagao , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/239676 , vital:50754 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cplu.201600475"
- Description: Four metalloporphyrin dimers linked by bridging amide-bonded xanthene moieties and that contain either MnIII, CoII, NiII, or CuII metal centers were synthesized. Various spectroscopic, electrochemical, and spectroelectrochemical methods were used to study trends in their properties. Their electronic structure and optical properties were analyzed through a comparison of the electronic absorption and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectral data with the results of time-dependent (TD)-DFT calculations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Li, Minzhi , Zhang, Qian , Xu, Li , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , May, Aviwe K , Nyokong, Tebello , Kobayashi, Nagao , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/239676 , vital:50754 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cplu.201600475"
- Description: Four metalloporphyrin dimers linked by bridging amide-bonded xanthene moieties and that contain either MnIII, CoII, NiII, or CuII metal centers were synthesized. Various spectroscopic, electrochemical, and spectroelectrochemical methods were used to study trends in their properties. Their electronic structure and optical properties were analyzed through a comparison of the electronic absorption and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectral data with the results of time-dependent (TD)-DFT calculations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A2B type copper (III) corroles containing zero-to-five fluorine atoms
- Li, Minzhi, Niu, Yingjie, Zhu, Weihua, Mack, John, Fomo, Gertrude, Nyokong, Tebello, Liang, Xu
- Authors: Li, Minzhi , Niu, Yingjie , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , Fomo, Gertrude , Nyokong, Tebello , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/238275 , vital:50604 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dyepig.2016.10.044"
- Description: Four low symmetric A2B meso-substituted Cu(III)corroles with electron withdrawing meso-aryl rings have been synthesized and characterized. A detailed analysis of the optical and redox properties has been carried out by comparing their optical spectroscopy, electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry to a series of DFT and TD-DFT calculations. A series of experiments demonstrate that these Cu(III)corroles can be used as highly effective catalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs). Moreover, when the number of fluorine atoms at B meso-position is increased, there is a marked enhancement in the catalytic ability of the corrole complexes, which demonstrates that modification to the structures of low symmetry corroles is a useful strategy for developing new HER catalysts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Li, Minzhi , Niu, Yingjie , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , Fomo, Gertrude , Nyokong, Tebello , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/238275 , vital:50604 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dyepig.2016.10.044"
- Description: Four low symmetric A2B meso-substituted Cu(III)corroles with electron withdrawing meso-aryl rings have been synthesized and characterized. A detailed analysis of the optical and redox properties has been carried out by comparing their optical spectroscopy, electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry to a series of DFT and TD-DFT calculations. A series of experiments demonstrate that these Cu(III)corroles can be used as highly effective catalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs). Moreover, when the number of fluorine atoms at B meso-position is increased, there is a marked enhancement in the catalytic ability of the corrole complexes, which demonstrates that modification to the structures of low symmetry corroles is a useful strategy for developing new HER catalysts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017