Graphene-type sheets of Nb1-xWxS2 : synthesis and in situ functionalization

Enlightened by the discovery of graphenes, a variety of inorganic analogues have been synthesized and characterized in recent years. Solvated Nb1-xWxS2 analogues of graphene-type sheets were prepared by lithiation and exfoliation of multistacked Nb1-xWxS2 coin roll nanowires (CRNWs), followed by in situ functionalization with gold nanoparticles to synthesize gold-loaded Nb1-xWxS2/Au nanocomposites. The Nb1-xWxS2 nanosheets and the corresponding Nb1-xWxS2/Au nanocomposites were characterized by high resolution electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning force microscopy (AFM). The graphene-type sheets are stable in water and other solvents and can be functionalized similarly as chalcogen-terminated surfaces (e.g. with Au nanoparticles).

Counting the cost of fast fashion

There’s a polyester mullet skirt gracing a derrière near you. It’s short at the front, long at the back, and it’s also known as the hi-lo skirt. Like fads that preceded it, the mullet skirt has a short fashion life, and although it will remain potentially wearable for years, it’s likely to soon be heading to the charity shop or to landfill...