Transformation study and characterization of Cu-BTC MOF-derived nanoporous copper oxide.

This study provides a systematic and comprehensive investigation of the transformation process of copper-based metal-organic frameworks (Cu-BTC MOFs) into nanoporous copper oxides (P-CuO) through controlled calcination. While calcination is a well-established method for producing MOF-derived oxides, previous studies have primarily focused on their applications. Most of them often lack detailed exploration of the transformation process and decomposition mechanisms though it is crucial for achieving tunability in MOF-derived structures.

Formamidinium lead iodide perovskite photovoltaics with MoS quantum dots.

We present the formation of a composite film made out of formamidinium lead iodide (FAPI) and molybdenum disulphide quantum dots (MoS QDs) and propose a corresponding photovoltaic device architecture based on a 'type-I' alignment of the two materials' electronic energy levels. The introduction of the MoS QDs has not compromised the overall crystallinity of the FAPI film and the composite absorber has shown improved stability. We report on the benefits of this composite film and energy band arrangement as the photogenerated carriers in MoS QDs, both positive and negative, are injected into the FAPI host matrix, resulting in an increased current density of 24.

Cluster-doping in silicon nanocrystals.

Creating tin-alloyed silicon nanocrystals with tailored bandgap values is a significant challenge, primarily because a substantial concentration of tin is essential to observe useful changes in the electronic structure. However, high concentration of Sn leads to instability of the silicon-tin nanocrystals. This work introduces a completely new approach to doping and the modification of the electronic structure of nanoparticles by incorporating few-atom clusters in nanocrystals, deviating from isolated atom doping or attempting alloying.

CFTIlandslides, Italian database of historical earthquake-induced landslides.

Knowing the location, the extent and the characteristics of any earthquake-induced environmental phenomenon is becoming an increasingly pressing need for civil protection agencies and local administrations. In particular, earthquake-triggered landslides are known for being among the most important sources of secondary hazard, as they may cause significant losses and may delay rescue operations across large areas. The combination of the relatively frequent seismic release with a very high landslide susceptibility makes the Italian territory especially prone to the occurrence of earthquake-induced landslides.