Simulation-driven investigations are presented on highly efficient monolithic tandem solar cells with climate-efficient nano-scaled perovskite and crystalline silicon for green energy generation. Tandem solar cells comprise a lead-free CsGeI3 perovskite top cell and a silicon bottom sub-cell. A Cu2O hole transport material layer and a ZnO electron transport material layer was used. Optimizations were performed by varying doping, defect concentration, thickness, and band gap to obtain valuable insights into material properties. These perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, with a wide band gap and optimized parameters, yielded power conversion efficiencies above the Shockley-Queisser limit for single-junction cells. The structure of perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells is Glass/FTO/ZnO/CsGeI3/Cu2O/RL/Si(p+)/Si(p)/Si(n)/Au. After optimization, the results show a power conversion efficiency of 37.23%, a Jsc of 23.95 mA/cm2, a Voc of 1.895 V, and an FF of 82%. This research shows that through this hybrid perovskite-silicon technology, one is assured of increased energy output while decreasing carbon footprints and increasing renewable energy use.

Acoustic energy harvesting (AEH) converts ambient sound, ultrasound, and structural vibrations into electrical power and represents a viable strategy for powering intermittently operated microsystems. This work presents a quantitative framework for AEH based on acoustic intensity and electromechanical coupling, reviews transduction mechanisms, and identifies dominant technical constraints including low power density and impedance mismatch. This review demonstrates that mu W-level power generation is achievable under realistic acoustic conditions when resonant amplification and impedance matching are employed, enabling battery-free operation of low-duty-cycle microsystems. This article highlights the material and system-level requirements needed to achieve practical self-powered microsystems.

The global impact of COVID-19 has highlighted the urgent need for highly accurate and sensitive diagnostic methods and tools. In this study, we present a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor designed to enhance the detection of SARS-CoV-2 through optimized material layering. The proposed biosensor incorporates a multilayer structure consisting of copper (Cu), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), silicon nitride (Si₃N₄), and a black phosphorus (BP) layer. After systematic optimization, the ideal thicknesses were determined to be 70 nm for Cu, 13.9 nm for TiO₂, 6.9 nm for Si₃N₄, and 0.47 nm for BP. This configuration demonstrated strong performance in a phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) environment. The sensor achieved a high sensitivity of 500.00 deg/RIU, along with a detection accuracy (DA) of 0.002 deg⁻¹ and a quality factor (QF) of 186.36 RIU⁻¹ at a concentration of 0.10 mM of SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, the biosensor exhibited a linear response to refractive index (RI) variations, indicating its capability for reliable quantification of viral concentrations. These results confirm that the integration of TiO₂, Si₃N₄, and BP layers significantly enhances the performance of SPR biosensors. The proposed design offers improved sensitivity, resolution, and signal quality, making it a promising candidate for early-stage detection and clinical diagnostics, as well as for broader applications in syndromic surveillance.

The current investigation focuses on examining the fundamental optical parameters of thin films with a thickness of 500 nm, composed of quaternary glassy materials GeTe(2 – x)(SeSb)x (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6). This includes describing the optical absorption data using Tauc’s relationship, evaluating the extinction coefficient and refractive index, and consulting the correlation between optical band gap and refractive index. Additionally, the research explores the one essential oscillator dispersal parameters, dielectric properties, and certain non-linear optical constants. Spectrophotometric measurements of transmittance (T) and reflectance (R) are employed to study the dielectric and optical properties of the film samples. The extinction coefficient (k) and Optical refractive index (n) are utilized to approximate various critical opto-electrical and dielectric parameters. The results show an increase in parameter values including normal refractive index, static refractive index, single oscillator energy, lattice dielectric constant, high frequency dielectric constant, charge carrier concentration, volumetric energy loss functions and third order susceptibility. The investigated optical properties conclude that the material is useful for optical data storage applications.

Among environmental friendly energy sources solar energy is prominent one that can be harnessed via photovoltaic (PV) cells. The hybrid organic & inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs), have shown appealing PV performance. Halide-based perovskites (PVSK) offer several advantages, including low cost, high efficiency, and ease of fabrication. However, there are stability issues with these 3D perovskite materials. The solar device based on 2D PVSK materials are being used more and more in modern applications to address these problems. Ruddlesden-Popper (RP) & Dion-Jacobson (DJ) phases are the two main forms of 2D PVSK. These materials offer significantly greater stability compared to 3D perovskites, making them a promising alternative. In this study, we combine 2D and 3D perovskites to strengthen both reliability as well as efficiency of 3D PSCs. The present work explores the combined effect of DJ 2D-3D PVSK layers on device performance. The DJ 2D material used is PeDAMA4Pb5I16, while the 3D material is the lead-free, stable CsGeI3-xBrx (with x=1). The optimized solar cell structure developed in this work consists of (Au/Cu2O/PeDAMA4Pb5I16/CsGeI3-xBrx/PCBM/FTO). A thorough analysis was performed on the impact of various ETLs and HTLs, as well as factors such as defect density (Nt), 2D-3D layer thickness, shallow acceptor density (NA), series (RS) and shunt resistances (RSh), and temperature variations. In the present work, PCE has significantly improved, reaching an amazing 31.16%. Other noteworthy metrics include a JSC 22.55mA.cm-2, FF 88.47% and VOC 1.5617V, all demonstrating exceptional performance. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in strengthening the efficiency and performance of DJ 2D-3D PSCs, highlighting their potential for future applications.

This review article provides a comprehensive examination of the most recent advances in research on nanoglasses, including the methods used to create these materials, their characteristics, and their diverse range of uses. An overview of the current trends in nanoglass research connects them to the Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the current relevance of this topic. The process of manufacturing nanoglasses is explained in depth, highlighting advanced approaches such as inert gas condensation and severe plastic deformation, among other techniques. The prime focus of this review is on analyzing the various dimensions of nanoglass materials, including their structural dynamics and electrical configurations, and how these features contribute to their exceptional thermal stability and mechanical strength. The magnetic characteristics of nanoglasses are examined, highlighting their potential for driving innovation across multiple industries. The primary emphasis is on the biological usefulness of nanoglasses, specifically examining their bioactivity and interaction with biological components, and emphasizing their growing use in nanoscale biomedical applications. With regard to the practical applications of nanoglasses, there are specific discussions of their contributions to biological evaluation, wound healing, catalysis, and environmental sustainability. There is an emphasis on the durability and resistance of nanoglasses in these contexts. The comprehensive overview of nanoglasses provided in this article highlights their significance as revolutionary materials in fields of science and technology. The potential of nanoglasses to contribute to a future that is more sustainable and health oriented is indicated. The article ends by discussing the future directions for nanoglass research and looks forward to the promising possibilities for further investigation and innovation.

Kesterite-based CZTS thin-film solar cells are gaining recognition as a sustainable alternative to traditional photovoltaic technologies that rely on environmentally hazardous and costly absorber materials like c-Si, CdTe, and CIGS. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action) are particularly relevant to CZTS technology. However, the efficiency of CZTS solar cells is currently constrained by the relatively low open circuit voltage (Voc), which remains a primary barrier to their widespread adoption. This study uses cutting-edge SCAPS modeling to identify and address CZTS solar cell Voc constraints. The study optimizes acceptor, donor, and neutral defect states, shunt resistance, and interface states to improve device performance. Optimizing these parameters improves Voc and power conversion efficiency using rigorous numerical simulations. By optimizing defect states, the proposed MoS2/CZTS/CdS/ZnO structure achieved an improved open-circuit voltage (Voc) of up to 1.10 V and an efficiency of up to 18.61%. This work makes solar energy more accessible and inexpensive by enhancing CZTS solar cell efficiency, especially in locations where conventional photovoltaic technologies are less practical due to economic or environmental constraints.

Aptamers, short oligonucleotide sequences that bind specifically to cellular proteins and receptors, are emerging as versatile tools in molecular nanomedicine. Unlike passive tumor targeting via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, aptamers enable precise drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. Developed through the Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) process, aptamers offer compact size, robust structure, chemical versatility, and cost-effective synthesis. They serve as effective delivery vehicles for therapeutic molecules, including miRNA, siRNA, and small-molecule drugs, and function as antibody-like ligands for applications in cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Since the approval of Macugen, the first aptamer targeting VEGF, aptamers have also shown promise as diagnostic sensors and theranostic agents. This review explores SELEX-derived aptamers in nanomedicine, focusing on their therapeutic and diagnostic roles, particularly in precision cancer therapies. It also addresses challenges such as degradation and clinical translation alongside prospects in vaccines, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from solids and liquids. A large number of objects around us are always emitting VOCs into the atmosphere. VOC emission sources are classified into biogenic or anthropogenic. VOCs also cause health issues and other environmental problems. Their presence in any given situation points towards particular conclusions. As a result, VOC sensing is extremely important and can be applied to many fields of applications. This review highlights three major applications where sensors can be used, firstly in the detection and monitoring of harmful/polluting VOCs in the environment to ensure public safety; in detection of disease-specific VOCs for advancing the medical field by achieving non-invasive diagnostic procedures; lastly in the monitoring of VOCs emitted by food products, which can help in assessing the quality of food and implementing preventive measures to avoid food wastage. The mainstream VOC detection techniques such as gas chromatography paired with different detectors still leave much to be desired, despite their precise and accurate nature. Their limitations can be overcome by a new generation of sensors that use nanomaterials for sensing VOCs. The continuous advancement in nanotechnology has enabled the development of sensors through functionalization, composite formation and structural engineering, which has immensely improved sensing performances. In combination with interdisciplinary techniques and emerging technologies, the advent of a new generation of VOC sensors is right on the horizon. Volatile organic compounds with their sources, key sensing applications and the different nanomaterial categories used for sensor fabrication.

Though phase-change materials (PCMs) are regarded as constituent part of next-generation phase-change memory and other unfolding optoelectronic applications, the kinetics study of glass transition and crystallization, significant property in switching remains obscure in high-temperature region. Hence, this paper reports the investigation of glass transition and crystallization kinetics of Te(1-x) (GeSe0.5)Yx (TGSY) chalcogenide glass using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at heating rates 5, 10, 15, 20 degrees C/min. The effect of increasing Y quantity has been described by connecting structural relaxation kinematics during glass transition phenomena and devitrification while crystallization in chalcogenide glasses with their varied physicochemical characteristics. The inclusion of Y causes a discernible rise in the crystallization rate. The system is compatible with a strong glass-forming liquid, according to the Te(1-x) (GeSe0.5) Yx material fragility index. According to the average values of the kinetic exponent factors, there is heterogeneous nucleation for the investigated composition, which is subsequently followed by a two-or three-dimensional crystal growth phenomenon. Different glass stability criteria have been discussed based on the relationship between the characteristic temperatures. The CZW and CLX criteria were found to be inappropriate for discussing glass stability (GS) for the studied compositions based on the heating rate and composition dependencies of all criteria. The CYL criteria of Yuan et al. is the finest and it demonstrates the optimal ability for evaluating the GS, according to the data that was extracted from several GS criteria and their relative change parameters. By adding Y, thermal stability parameter and enthalpy emitted during the transition of glass and crystalline phases have been found to have an inverse relationship. All studied properties can conclude the application of studied material in phase-change material devices.

Colloidal quantum dots (CQD) are emerging third-generation photovoltaic technologies because of their ability to link a wider range of the light spectrum compared to those of perovskite, crystalline, and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar cells. In this work, a Lead Sulphide (PbS) CQD solar cell architecture with Ag2S, CdS, ZnSe and ZnS buffer layer is presented. The device consisting of PbS-tetrabutyle ammonium iodide (PbS-TBAI) as an absorber layer, PbS-1,2-ethanedithiol (PbS-EDT) as a hole transport layer (HTL), TiO2 as an electron transport layer (ETL), and fluorine tin oxide (FTO) as an oxide layer. The electrical performances of the solar cells were simulated using SCAPS-1D while taking into account different buffer layers with increasing bandgap values. With ZnS acting as a buffer layer, the computational modelling and analysis of architectural PbS CQD solar cell result in an efficiency of 17.12%. Additionally, the parameters of the solar cell have been studied to be affected by the thickness and bandgap of the absorber and HTL layers, the effect of acceptor concentration with various buffer layers, the impact of temperature, the effect of HTL doping density, and the effect of absorber layer defect density. This study can serve as a guide for future PbS CQD solar cells.

The current global scenario underlines the urgency of addressing energy consumption and its environmental implications. Contemporary international strategies aim to foster public awareness and engagement in sustainable energy initiatives. The World Environment Protection Commission aspires to qualify for an equitable transition toward energy-efficient technologies, strategic policies, and achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The principal aspiration is to enhance community understanding of energy and environmental policies. Furthermore, a root cause analysis reveals that understanding the foundational factors, both internal and external, underpinning the attainment of these objectives is of paramount importance. This study investigates the comparative advantages of renewable energy over non-renewable sources. It conducts a thorough analysis of various factors, encompassing energy sourcing, variables, challenges, technological progress, and the deployment of energy-efficient systems. Utilizing a strategic approach and conducting pre- and post-analysis data evaluations, it aims to promote the adoption of sustainable practices for a greener future. Emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and the effective implementation of policies, this research underscores the critical role of practical action in fostering energy sustainability and environmental preservation. The urgency of addressing energy consumption and environmental impacts is critical. Contemporary strategies aim to increase public awareness and engagement in sustainable energy initiatives. This study examines the benefits of renewable energy over non-renewable sources, analyzing energy sourcing, technological progress, and efficient systems. Emphasizing international cooperation, it underscores the importance of practical action for energy sustainability. image

CZTSSe kesterite nanoparticles have been investigated for the efficient. The hydrothermal method has been used to prepare the material. The various characterization like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman scattering, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for (UV–Vis) ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry and (EDS) energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and of the prepared nano particles have been studied. Furthermore, numerical analysis of the synthesized material has also been investigated to optimize the performance for more characterization at the device level. For the optimization purpose, we have modelled a device structure of the hybrid buffer layer and optimized its physical parameters for the efficient. Theoretical efficiency is found to be 18.46% for the prepared model. The results of this study show that Cu2ZnSn (S, Se)4 could be used as an absorbent layer for efficient solar cell.

Digital biosensors facilitate real-time, remote, precise disease detection and biochemical analysis.

Eco-friendly materials have emerged in biomedical engineering, driving major advances in chitosan-based hydrogels. These hydrogels offer a promising green alternative to conventional polymers due to their non-toxicity, biodegradability, biocompatibility, environmental friendliness, affordability, and easy accessibility. Known for their remarkable properties such as drug encapsulation, delivery capabilities, biosensing, functional scaffolding, and antimicrobial behavior, chitosan hydrogels are at the forefront of biomedical research. This paper explores the fabrication and modification methods of chitosan hydrogels for diverse applications, highlighting their role in advancing climate-neutral healthcare technologies. It reviews significant scientific advancements and trends chitosan hydrogels focusing on cancer diagnosis, drug delivery, and wound care. Additionally, it addresses current challenges and green synthesis practices that support a circular economy, enhancing biomedical sustainability. By providing an in-depth analysis of the latest evidence on climate-neutral management, this review aims to facilitate informed decision-making and foster the development of sustainable strategies leveraging chitosan hydrogel technology. The insights from this comprehensive examination are pivotal for steering future research and applications in sustainable biomedical solutions.

In the face of declining fossil fuel supplies and increasing global energy demands, the urgency for sustainable energy alternatives has reached unprecedented levels. Solar electricity, due to its intrinsic benefits, is a prominent environmentally benign and economically feasible solution. Nevertheless, the intermittent presence of the sun requires dependable energy storage methods. Photorechargeable batteries, capable of directly capturing and storing solar energy, present a viable pathway in this regard. This assessment documents the significant and influential contributions made by John B. Goodenough over a period of seventy years in defining the advancement of engineering and technology in the field of batteries. This paper explores in-depth analysis of how advanced materials and fabrication techniques impact the performance of the battery. It also examines the transition towards using organic components to enhance recyclability. Furthermore, we examine cutting edge technologies to enhance photorechargeable batteries, providing insight into their benefits and obstacles. This article pays homage to Goodenough's enduring influence in spearheading sustainable energy storage systems.

Greenhouse gas emissions are significantly contributing to climate change, posing one of the serious threats to our planet. Addressing these emissions urgently is imperative to prevent irreversible planetary changes. One effective long-term mitigation strategy is achieving carbon neutrality. Although numerous countries aim for carbon neutrality by 2050, only a few are on track to realize this ambition. Existing technological solutions, including chemical absorption, cryogenic separation, and membrane separation, are available but tend to be costly and time intensive. Bio-capture methods present a promising opportunity in greenhouse gas mitigation research. Recent developments in biotechnology for capturing greenhouse gases have demonstrated both effectiveness and long-term benefits. This review emphasizes the recent advancements in bio-capture techniques, showcasing them as dependable and economical solutions for carbon neutrality. The article briefly outlines various bio-capture methods and underscores their potential for industrial application. Moreover, it delves into the challenges faced when integrating bio-capture with carbon capture and storage technology. The review concludes by exploring the recent trends and prospective enhancements in ecosystem revitalization and industrial decarbonization through green conversion techniques, reinforcing the path towards carbon neutrality.