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Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Co-Depositable p-Type Small Molecules

Graphical AbstractVerified

SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Co-Depositable p-Type Small Molecules

Metal halide perovskites have significantly improved solar cell performance due to their excellent optoelectronic properties. Recently, p-type small molecules such as Me-4PACz, assisted by dual-functional passivation, have enabled perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to achieve certified power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) up to 26.15%. However, issues such as molecular aggregation during solution processing limit the storage stability of precursor solutions and lead to poor molecular distribution within the film, hindering device efficiency and operational stability. Zhu's group enacted the co-deposition of a new p-type small molecule, D4PA, with perovskite. Density functional theory (DFT) investigations revealed that D4PA exhibits strong dual-terminal anchoring interactions with indium tin oxide (ITO) via two phosphonic acid groups, stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonding, ensuring robust adhesion and improved interface uniformity. Additionally, D4PA forms stable coordination with Pb2+ ions, suppressing defects and facilitating efficient charge transfer. Temperature-dependent Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed strong binding between D4PA and perovskite, contrasting with the weaker binding of Me-4PACz. This stable interaction improves perovskite crystallinity and promotes uniform distribution of D4PA, resulting in superior photovoltaic performance. D4PA-based PSCs achieved a record PCE of 26.83% in small-area devices (certified 26.72%), and a mini-module (10.86 cm2) achieved a PCE of 23.37% with a certified MPPT efficiency of 22.66%. Devices retained 97.2% of initial efficiency after 2500 h of continuous operation at MPP under one-sun illumination. Reduced and homogeneous photoluminescence intensity indicated efficient and uniform hole extraction, and electroluminescence quantum efficiency (EQE-EL) reached 15.25%, significantly higher than 6.23% for Me-4PACz-based devices. This molecular engineering strategy provides a promising route for high-performance and high-durability inverted PSCs.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3636-9

Laminar Air Drying for Scalable Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing: A Critical Analysis of Process-Structure-Performance Relationships

Graphical AbstractVerified

SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Laminar Air Drying for Scalable Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing: A Critical Analysis of Process-Structure-Performance Relationships

The commercialization of perovskite solar modules (PSMs) is hindered by the challenge of achieving uniform, high-quality perovskite films over large areas with scalable manufacturing methods. While the laminar air drying (LAD) method has demonstrated high manufacturing efficiency and module performance, the geometric design of the drying apparatus is critical for uniform and efficient drying. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art in perovskite crystallization and film formation, emphasizing the role of drying kinetics in determining film quality. We analyze the LAD method reported by Yan et al., which achieved square meter-sized modules with excellent efficiency and stability, and contrast it with alternative scalable deposition techniques such as air knife and vacuum flash-assisted methods. The operational lifetimes of perovskite modules (~9 years) remain below those of silicon modules (~15 years) and PV modules (>20 years), underscoring the need for improved stability. We discuss the fundamental aspects of crystallization in nanocrystals, single crystals, and thin films, and the influence of vertical orientation in 2D perovskites. The review highlights the importance of process control in scalable deposition, particularly the role of airflow uniformity in preventing cracking and defects. Our analysis provides a framework for optimizing LAD parameters to achieve high-quality films, addressing the critical bottleneck of scalability and stability for perovskite photovoltaics.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3557-3

Breakthrough in Single Atom Fe Catalysts for Acidic Oxygen Reduction

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Breakthrough in Single Atom Fe Catalysts for Acidic Oxygen Reduction

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are a promising sustainable energy conversion technology due to their environmental friendliness and high efficiency. However, the sluggish kinetics of the four-electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) necessitate cathode catalysts requiring over five times the amount of precious metal Pt compared to the anode, limiting widespread PEMFC application. The U.S. Department of Energy emphasizes developing non-precious metal-based catalysts as cost-effective alternatives. Transition metal single atoms (Mn, Co, Cu) anchored on nitrogen-doped carbon (M–N–C) have been developed as efficient ORR electrocatalysts, but most exhibit excellent performance only in alkaline media. The typical MN4 planar coordination renders the central metal vulnerable to hydrogen ion attack, challenging activity and durability in acidic media. Recent studies propose that axial-N coordination enhances stability of atomically dispersed Fe sites for acidic ORR by creating a barrier to Fe dissolution. The induced square-pyramidal crystal field diminishes spin polarization in dz2, dxz, and dyz orbitals, enhancing electronic delocalization of the Fe atom, allowing adsorbed O2 to maintain a low-energy triplet ground state, facilitating activation and reduction. Wang and coworkers constructed a novel curved-surface Fe–N–C (CS Fe/N–C) catalyst with FeN4 single atoms distributed within graphitized multilayered nanoprotrusions on 2D carbon layers. The nanoprotrusions have a mean diameter of ~10 nm and protrude ~4 nm. The curved regions exhibit a high Fe site density of ~1.6 No. nm−2, with 97.6% located deep in the fourth layer, contrasting with lower and more random distribution in planar regions and 2D Fe/N–C. This distribution aligns with iron atom diffusion from core to outer layers during pyrolysis.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3670-7

Dynamic Iron Catalysis on Quantum Dots Enables Ultrasound-Controlled Multimodal Cancer Therapy

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Dynamic Iron Catalysis on Quantum Dots Enables Ultrasound-Controlled Multimodal Cancer Therapy

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is characterized by elevated H2O2 levels and hypoxia, posing significant challenges to effective cancer treatment. Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) exploits these conditions to generate cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals via Fenton reactions, yet its efficacy as a monotherapy is limited. Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) offers deep-tissue ROS generation under ultrasound (US) but is oxygen-dependent. Immunotherapy can modulate systemic immune responses but often suffers from low response rates. Here, we highlight a recent breakthrough published in Nature Nanotechnology by Prof. Jiatao Zhang and colleagues, who engineered a multifunctional quantum dot system (FAQD) integrating CDT, SDT, and immunotherapy through atomically dispersed iron and selenium chemistry. The FAQD comprises zinc selenide quantum dots with Ag doping and Fe decoration, synthesized via a three-step method. Structural analyses (HAADF-STEM, XRD, XPS, EXAFS) confirmed a quasi-single-crystalline structure with atomically dispersed Fe(III) and Ag(I). Optimal Ag:Zn ratio (5:100) maximized singlet oxygen yield under US. In vitro, FAQD-1 (with MMP-cleavable PEG) exhibited negligible cytotoxicity without US, but under US and H2O2, induced substantial ROS production, mitochondrial impairment, and apoptosis in HeLa cells. In vivo, FAQD-1 with US achieved complete suppression of primary and abscopal tumors within two weeks, eliciting robust systemic immune responses (increased CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, reduced Tregs, elevated IL-2 levels). This work demonstrates a synergistic trimodal nanoplatform with precise spatiotemporal control, offering a promising strategy for cancer therapy.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3675-3

Carbon nanotube-based materials as capacitive deionization electrodes

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New Carbon Materials2026

Carbon nanotube-based materials as capacitive deionization electrodes

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an emerging desalination technology that removes dissolved salts from brackish water via ion electrosorption at electrically charged electrode interfaces. It has gained recognition as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional methods such as reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and thermal distillation, which often suffer from high energy consumption and environmental impact. Among electrode materials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are particularly attractive due to their high specific surface area, superior electrical conductivity, and excellent electrochemical stability. This review comprehensively analyzes recent advances in performance optimization strategies for CNT-based CDI electrodes, including material engineering and structural design. Key strategies include hybridization with activated carbon, graphene, metal oxides, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), as well as surface functionalization and three-dimensional architecture construction. These approaches enhance salt adsorption capacity, charge efficiency, and cycling stability. For instance, dispersing CNTs in activated carbon electrodes improves conductivity and ion transport, while MOF-derived nitrogen-doped carbon/CNT heterostructures exhibit high desalination performance. The review also evaluates the pivotal role of CNT-based electrodes in driving technological progress in CDI and discusses persistent challenges such as electrode fouling, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Promising research directions, including flow-electrode systems and selective ion removal, are highlighted to overcome current limitations. Overall, CNT-based materials hold significant promise for advancing CDI as a viable water purification technology.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61065-7

Boron and Nitrogen Co-Doped Coal-Based Activated Carbon as Cathode Material for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-Ion Hybrid Capacitors

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New Carbon Materials2026

Boron and Nitrogen Co-Doped Coal-Based Activated Carbon as Cathode Material for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-Ion Hybrid Capacitors

Aqueous zinc-ion capacitors (ZICs) are promising energy storage systems due to their high specific capacity and superior reliability. Heteroatom-doped carbon materials have been shown to substantially increase the capacitance of ZICs, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this work, coal-based activated carbon was functionalized with both boron (B) and nitrogen (N) to serve as the cathode material in ZICs. The optimized material, designated CAC-120, exhibits a high specific capacity of 371.4 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 and retains 74% of its initial capacity after 10,000 cycles. Electrochemical analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that pyridinic N plays a crucial role in enhancing Zn2+ storage, demonstrating superior electrochemical reversibility. Furthermore, an assembled aqueous ZIC using the CAC-120 cathode achieves a high reversible capacity of 90.8 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 and exceptional long-term stability over 17,000 cycles. This work provides valuable insight into the design of high-capacity and ultrafast pseudocapacitive carbon cathodes for ZICs, highlighting the synergistic effects of pore structure engineering and heteroatom doping.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61071-2

Recent advances in the characterization and applications of biochar and hydrochar

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New Carbon Materials2026

Recent advances in the characterization and applications of biochar and hydrochar

The conversion of biomass into carbon-rich materials, biochar and hydrochar, has emerged as a promising strategy to address pressing environmental challenges while supporting sustainable industrial development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in the characterization and application of these materials, emphasizing their distinct production methods, physicochemical properties, and functional versatility. Biochar, typically obtained by pyrolysis at high temperatures (>400 °C), exhibits high porosity, aromaticity, and thermal stability, making it well-suited for applications such as CO2 capture, electrochemical energy storage, catalysis, and soil improvement. In contrast, hydrochar, produced by hydrothermal carbonization in aqueous media at moderate temperatures, retains a higher number of surface functional groups and heteroatoms, offering advantages in aqueous-phase catalysis, pollutant adsorption, and bioremediation. The critical role of physicochemical characterization in optimizing material performance is outlined, and analytical techniques including liquid nitrogen adsorption, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, Boehm titration, and thermogravimetric analysis are discussed. These techniques reveal how physical-chemical characteristics such as surface area, functional group chemistry, and degree of graphitization govern the materials’ suitability for specific applications. Emerging uses in wastewater treatment, biofuel production, animal feed, and advanced oxidation processes are examined, alongside their relevance to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly climate action, clean energy, and responsible production. The materials are versatile and can be produced on a large scale. Their performance can be fine-tuned using different production and post-treatment processes, making them key enablers in the transition to a circular, carbon-conscious economy.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61070-0

Low-cost synthesis of large graphene oxide flakes by the total oxidation of large natural graphite flakes

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New Carbon Materials2026

Low-cost synthesis of large graphene oxide flakes by the total oxidation of large natural graphite flakes

Large graphene oxide (LGO) sheets offer significant advantages over smaller ones in various applications, yet their production via Hummers-type oxidation of large natural graphite flakes remains challenging due to difficulties in achieving full oxidation and avoiding fragmentation. This study provides the first direct evidence that large graphite flakes (up to 1 mm) can be completely oxidized without fragmentation under static conditions, as revealed by in-situ monitoring. The oxidation process is governed by diffusion of the oxidizer between layers, described by Fick's law, where a high oxidizer concentration gradient increases the diffusion rate. By minimizing the amount of concentrated H2SO4 solvent, we achieved a semi-solid state that elevates oxidizer concentration, facilitating Mn(VII) diffusion and enabling complete oxidation of gram-scale large flakes with significantly reduced reagent consumption. Reaction temperature was optimized to balance graphite oxidation and Mn(VII) self-decomposition. Using this approach, 200-, 100-, and 50-mesh natural graphite were fully oxidized with reduced H2SO4 and KMnO4 usage. After exfoliation, LGO with average lateral sizes of 27.3, 58.7, and 116.2 μm were obtained, respectively, with 100% conversion and yield over 165%. This work not only provides a scalable, cost-effective strategy for LGO production but also advances the fundamental understanding of Hummers-type oxidation.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61036-5

Laser-Synthesized Metastable Bismuth Nanocrystals Chemically Bonded to Reduced Graphene Oxide for Excellent Lithium Storage

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New Carbon Materials2026

Laser-Synthesized Metastable Bismuth Nanocrystals Chemically Bonded to Reduced Graphene Oxide for Excellent Lithium Storage

The poor interface contact between bismuth (Bi) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) impedes ion/electron transfer in lithium-ion battery anodes. We report an innovative fabrication of ultrafine Bi nanocrystals chemically bonded to rGO (Bi-rGO) via liquid-phase pulsed laser irradiation followed by solvothermal reaction with graphene oxide. Metastable Bi nanocrystals synthesized by laser (5.5 nm) undergo lattice restructuring and shrink to a record-small size of 2 nm during solvothermal combination, the smallest reported for Bi/C composites. The Bi nanocrystals are uniformly anchored onto rGO nanosheets via strong Bi–O–C bonds, which suppress particle aggregation, establish efficient ion/electron transport channels, and alleviate volume expansion during lithiation. The Bi-rGO-2 anode, comprising 2 nm Bi nanocrystals, delivers an exceptional reversible capacity of 586.7 mAh g−1 over 500 cycles at 100 mA g−1, nearly doubling that of a Bulk Bi/rGO composite anode (318 mAh g−1). Theoretical calculations confirm higher binding energy between Bi and rGO at smaller particle sizes, while kinetic analysis reveals accelerated Li+ diffusion. This work provides a scalable route to high-performance alloy anodes through metastable nanocrystal engineering and covalent interface coupling.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61068-2

Functionalized Carbon Dots from Natural Precursors for Environmental Remediation and Renewable Energy Technologies

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New Carbon Materials2026

Functionalized Carbon Dots from Natural Precursors for Environmental Remediation and Renewable Energy Technologies

The green synthesis of functionalized carbon dots (C-dots) from natural precursors is reviewed, providing a sustainable and versatile platform for environmental remediation and renewable energy technologies. The focus is on methods such as hydrothermal, microwave-assisted, pyrolytic, solvent-based, and ultrasonic routes, with an emphasis on biomass-derived precursors and green solvents. Strategies are given for surface passivation, hybridization, and composite formation to tailor their optical properties and their applications in sustainable technologies are examined. In environmental remediation, they act as efficient photocatalysts for degrading organic pollutants and reducing carbon dioxide (CO2). For renewable energy, they improve light-harvesting in solar cells and dye-sensitized solar cells. Their notable stability and efficiency are highlighted, alongside persistent challenges in controlling their size, uniformity, and scalability of quantum yield. Future work must clarify the structure-activity relationships for multifunctional compounds, facilitating commercial deployment.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61074-8

Fe3C-Coated Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanotube/Cattail-Derived Carbon Microtube Composites for Efficient Microwave Absorption

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New Carbon Materials2026

Fe3C-Coated Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanotube/Cattail-Derived Carbon Microtube Composites for Efficient Microwave Absorption

Carbon materials suffer from limited dielectric loss, resulting in poor impedance matching and inadequate microwave attenuation. To address this, hierarchical structures with synergistic loss mechanisms are sought. Here, biomass cattail serves as a sustainable precursor for nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube arrays decorated with Fe3C nanoparticles via chemical vapor deposition, yielding Fe3C@NCNTs/CMTs composites. The crystallinity, tuned by calcination temperature, critically influences microwave absorption. At 800 °C, the composite achieves a minimum reflection loss of –35.8 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth of 7.02 GHz at a thickness of only 1.7 mm, with an ultralow filler loading of 10 wt%, covering the entire Ku band and part of the X band. This performance stems from enhanced magnetic loss and multiple dielectric polarization mechanisms. The study demonstrates a promising strategy for designing biomass-derived carbon-based broadband microwave absorbers.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61066-9

Correction to: Mesoporous Bowl-Shaped Polydopamine Co-Loaded Temozolomide and Indocyanine Green for Synergistically Inhibiting Glioblastoma

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Correction to: Mesoporous Bowl-Shaped Polydopamine Co-Loaded Temozolomide and Indocyanine Green for Synergistically Inhibiting Glioblastoma

This correction addresses an image misuse in the original publication (Sci China Mater, 2025, 68(6): 2095, DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3311-6). Specifically, a fluorescent image in Fig. 4d, depicting live/dead cells after treatment with MPDA@TMZ without laser irradiation, was erroneously presented. The corrected Fig. 4 is provided, and the authors confirm that the results and conclusions of the original paper remain unaffected. The correction ensures the integrity of the reported data, particularly the cell viability and apoptosis assays. The study focuses on mesoporous bowl-shaped polydopamine (MPDA) nanoparticles co-loaded with temozolomide (TMZ) and indocyanine green (ICG) for synergistic glioblastoma therapy. The corrected figure includes CLSM images of G422 cells after incubation with various formulations (ICG, sPDA@ICG, mPDA@ICG, MPDA@ICG), cell viability curves, quantitative fluorescence intensity, live/dead staining, and apoptosis quantification. Statistical significance is denoted as ****p < 0.01. The correction maintains the scientific validity of the findings, which demonstrate the potential of MPDA-based nanoplatforms for combined chemo-photothermal therapy.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3503-9

Ketjenblack-Reinforced Chloroprene Rubber / Brominated Butyl Rubber Blends: Enhanced Ozone and UV Stability, Air Permeability, and Tribological Performance

Graphical AbstractVerified

New Carbon Materials2026

Ketjenblack-Reinforced Chloroprene Rubber / Brominated Butyl Rubber Blends: Enhanced Ozone and UV Stability, Air Permeability, and Tribological Performance

Elastomers are widely used in engineering but suffer degradation when exposed to heat, ozone, UV radiation, and chemicals. To enhance performance for specific industrial applications, blending with other materials is common. In this study, chloroprene rubber (CR) was blended with brominated butyl rubber (BIIR) and reinforced with Ketjenblack (KB) at concentrations up to 20%. KB exhibits a porous, fluffy morphology with a high specific surface area of 1347 m²/g. Tensile tests were conducted before and after exposure to UV, ozone, saline, petrol, and diesel environments, and retention capacity was evaluated per ASTM standards. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed uniform dispersion of KB filler. Tribological and barrier property studies identified 10% KB as optimal due to uniform dispersion. Thermal degradation kinetics were analyzed using Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose modeling to determine activation energy. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated a 5 °C reduction in glass transition temperature for the 20% composite. These elastomeric blends demonstrate potential as advanced materials for harsh industrial applications.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61073-6

A fast bismuth-carbon composite anode for achieving kinetic matching between the anode and cathode of sodium-ion capacitors

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New Carbon Materials2026

A fast bismuth-carbon composite anode for achieving kinetic matching between the anode and cathode of sodium-ion capacitors

Sodium-ion capacitors (SICs) typically feature a hybrid design, incorporating a battery-type anode that operates by faradaic redox reactions and an activated carbon cathode that functions through electrical double-layer (EDL) adsorption/desorption. However, the kinetics of faradaic processes are inherently slower than those of EDL processes, leading to a fundamental problem known as kinetic imbalance between the electrodes, which hinders the development of high-performance SICs. To address this, we synthesized composites of bismuth nanoparticles in N-doped carbon (Bi@NC) by a high-temperature sintering method. The resulting Bi@NC anode has a specific capacity of 300 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, an exceptional rate capability (maintaining performance at currents exceeding 75 A g−1), and outstanding cycling stability over 12,000 cycles. Three-electrode Swagelok cell tests revealed that this high-rate Bi@NC composite effectively decreases the kinetic gap with the activated carbon cathode, as shown by an analysis of their respective potential swing windows (vs. Na/Na+). This enables the fabricated SIC to achieve a maximum energy density of 115 Wh kg−1, a peak power density of 45,535 W kg−1, and a long cycle life exceeding 8,000 cycles.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61072-4

Ruthenium-Based Electrocatalysts for Electrochemical Water Splitting: A Review of Fundamentals, Synthesis, and Enhancement Strategies

Graphical AbstractVerified

SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Ruthenium-Based Electrocatalysts for Electrochemical Water Splitting: A Review of Fundamentals, Synthesis, and Enhancement Strategies

Ruthenium-based materials, including metallic Ru and RuO2, are promising electrocatalysts for electrochemical water splitting (EWS) due to their high activity for both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, their practical application is hindered by the relatively strong adsorption of reaction intermediates on Ru surfaces and the oxidative dissolution of RuO2 under operating conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent progress and challenges in Ru-based electrocatalysts for EWS. We first summarize the fundamentals of EWS, including reaction mechanisms and activity descriptors. Then, we detail typical synthesis methods such as hydrothermal/solvothermal syntheses, organic ligand-assisted syntheses, pyrolysis, acid etching, cation exchange, and molten salt-assisted syntheses. Subsequently, we focus on enhancement strategies, including alloying, doping, structure design, interface engineering, single-atom catalyst design, high-entropy alloy design, phase engineering, and defect engineering, with typical examples illustrating structure-property correlations. Finally, we address remaining challenges and future prospects for the development of efficient and durable Ru-based electrocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3761-7

Loading of Nano-Bimetallic Catalysts onto Coal Tar Pitch-Based Activated Carbon Fibers for Efficient Reduction of p-Nitrophenol

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New Carbon Materials2026

Loading of Nano-Bimetallic Catalysts onto Coal Tar Pitch-Based Activated Carbon Fibers for Efficient Reduction of p-Nitrophenol

The reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) in wastewater faces challenges in conversion rate and stability. We used coal tar pitch-based activated carbon fibers (ACFs) as a support material for loading transition metal catalysts to catalyze the reaction. Fe–Ni nanoparticles were loaded onto the coal tar pitch-based ACF through a simple hydrothermal–calcination method. The results showed that the coal tar pitch-based ACFs had a high specific surface area (1847 m2/g) and a unique microporous structure, and the metals were loaded onto them. The average diameter of the nanoparticles formed was approximately 100 nm. By changing the metal loading it was shown that the performance was best when the reaction temperature was 45 °C, the 4-NP concentration was 2.5 mmol L−1, and the molar concentration ratio of Fe3+ to Ni2+ was 1∶2 (total 7.5 mmol L−1). Under these conditions the conversion efficiency reached 99.88%. Fe2.5/Ni5–ACF exhibited excellent catalytic activity and recyclability for 4-NP after five cycles. The inherent advantages of nanomaterials increase the catalytic efficiency of 4-NP, which expands the use of coal tar pitch-based ACFs as supporting materials in the field of catalysis.

Read Full Abstract10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61067-0

Interface Engineering of MXenes for Flexible Energy Storage and Harvesting

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Interface Engineering of MXenes for Flexible Energy Storage and Harvesting

Flexible energy storage and harvesting devices, as core components of flexible electronic systems, have driven the transformation from external power supply to self-powering and from fixed forms to adaptive configurations, playing a pivotal role in wearable technology and the Internet of Things. MXenes, a class of two-dimensional transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, are promising candidates due to their excellent conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and tunable interfacial characteristics. Specifically, interfacial characteristics—surface energy, surface terminations, and interlayer spacing—decisively influence device performance. This review summarizes the influence of microcosmic interfacial characteristics on macroscopic properties, interfacial regulation strategies, and applications in flexible energy storage and harvesting. It concludes with challenges and perspectives for designing high-performance MXene-based energy devices. Key applications include flexible supercapacitors, batteries, and triboelectric nanogenerators. For instance, pillared Ti3C2 via CTAB pre-pillaring and Sn4+ pillaring regulates interlayer spacing, enhancing ion transport. The review integrates recent advances, such as MXene/nylon scaffolds for dendrite-free zinc anodes and MXene-bonded hard carbon films for sodium/potassium storage, demonstrating improved cycling stability and rate capability. The interfacial engineering strategies discussed provide a roadmap for overcoming stacking issues and achieving high energy density and mechanical robustness.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3836-8

Synthesis of transition metal nitride nanomaterials for electrocatalytic applications

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Synthesis of transition metal nitride nanomaterials for electrocatalytic applications

Transition metal nitrides (TMNs) have emerged as promising alternatives to noble metals in electrocatalysis due to their noble metal-like electronic structures, high conductivity, low cost, and robust chemical stability against corrosion and oxidation under harsh conditions. The rational design and controlled synthesis of TMNs with distinct structures are crucial for developing highly efficient electrocatalysts. This review comprehensively summarizes representative synthetic strategies for TMNs, including direct nitridation, solid-state reaction, sol-gel assisted reaction, and wet-chemical reaction. It presents distinct structural characterizations and demonstrates their advances in electrochemical applications. Finally, the remaining challenges and future research directions for exploring TMNs with well-defined structures are proposed, aiming to guide the development of high-performance electrocatalysts.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-026-4022-7

Engineering Revolution of Cell Membrane-Biomimetic Nanoparticles: From Hybridization Strategy Innovation to Microfluidics-Enabled Precision Fabrication

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Engineering Revolution of Cell Membrane-Biomimetic Nanoparticles: From Hybridization Strategy Innovation to Microfluidics-Enabled Precision Fabrication

The continuous advancement of bionanomaterial technology has driven significant strategic transformations in the design and fabrication of biomimetic nanocarriers. This review systematically traces the evolution from single-cell membrane nanovesicles to hybrid cell membrane nanovesicles integrating multiple cell membranes, culminating in cell membrane hybrid lipid nanoparticles (CM-LNPs) that combine natural cell membranes or membrane proteins with engineered synthetic phospholipids. This technological progression enables the synergistic retention of multicellular biological functions while incorporating advantageous synthetic material properties, such as enhanced engineering flexibility and surface modifiability. The article critically evaluates the advantages and limitations of traditional extrusion and ultrasonication methods for preparing cell membrane nanovesicles, highlighting the benefits and development prospects of novel microfluidic techniques in CM-LNP fabrication. Furthermore, it explores future application prospects and challenges of CM-LNPs in the biomedical field, particularly in drug delivery systems and precision medicine. The review underscores the potential of CM-LNPs to overcome clinical limitations of conventional liposomes, such as poor stability, rapid drug leakage, and inadequate targeting, by leveraging the natural homing effect of cell membranes and the tunability of synthetic lipids. Emphasis is placed on the role of microfluidics in achieving precise, scalable, and reproducible fabrication, which is critical for clinical translation. The abstract synthesizes current knowledge and identifies key research gaps, offering a forward-looking perspective on the engineering of biomimetic nanoparticles for advanced therapeutic applications.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3740-y

Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Next Generation of Wearable Chemical Sensors for Personal Health Monitoring

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Next Generation of Wearable Chemical Sensors for Personal Health Monitoring

Real-time health monitoring and ongoing evaluation of physiological conditions are becoming increasingly vital for the advancement of future medical diagnostics and personalized healthcare solutions. Given that certain illnesses necessitate prompt and accessible detection methods, wearable chemical sensors have garnered considerable interest for their capability to monitor health through physiological signals and chemical indicators. This review delivers a thorough examination of recent developments in four primary categories of wearable chemical sensors: biosensors, humidity sensors, gas sensors, and ion sensors. We explore the representative materials, device structures, operating mechanisms, and various application scenarios for each type of sensor. By investigating the latest innovations in these technologies, we aim to provide a detailed overview of the current research landscape, highlight existing challenges, and present potential future directions of wearable chemical sensors in healthcare monitoring.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3780-3

Smart Fiber Photodetectors Based on Inorganic Semiconductors

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Smart Fiber Photodetectors Based on Inorganic Semiconductors

Fiber photodetectors (FPDs) with high deformability, flexible designability, and seamless integrability with everyday textiles hold tremendous potential for next-generation wearable optoelectronics. Inorganic semiconductors (ISCs) are considered ideal building blocks to design and govern the functions of FPDs owing to their superior electrical and optical properties. Recent developments in wearable technology of ISCs, especially in fiber form factor, have driven the creation of various FPDs with smart capabilities, from light sensing, information interfacing, to sophisticated logic operating, revolutionizing human-machine interaction paradigms in many emerging fields. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of recent progress of ISC-based FPDs. Firstly, key design principles for ISC-based FPDs are explored, encompassing material selection, fabrication technologies, device architectures, and textile integration strategies. Then, how defect engineering, alignment engineering, and heterojunction engineering of ISCs can control the optoelectronic performance of FPDs is examined. Following this, potential wearable applications of ISC-based FPDs in optical communication, image sensing, and health monitoring are analyzed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives for the design of high-performance ISC-based FPDs are outlined.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3947-3

From Bench to Buoy: Challenges in Seawater Uranium Extraction

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

From Bench to Buoy: Challenges in Seawater Uranium Extraction

Nuclear energy is critical for sustainable economic development and achieving carbon neutrality. With only about 6.14 million tons of terrestrial uranium, sufficient for ~70 years of global nuclear power plant operation, the recovery of uranium from seawater and spent fuel is essential for long-term nuclear fuel supply. The ocean contains approximately 4.5 billion tons of uranium, which could sustain nuclear power for ~2000 years if efficiently extracted. However, seawater uranium extraction faces significant challenges due to the extremely low uranium concentration (~3.3 ppb), high concentrations of competing ions, natural organic matter, and marine biofouling. This perspective reviews representative laboratory advances, including sulfonated covalent organic frameworks (S-COF) achieving a sorption capacity of 31.5 mg/(g·day) with high selectivity, amidoxime-based organic cages with a capacity of 11.97 mg/g over 30 days, and a micro-redox reactor strategy that continuously regenerates binding sites. Electrochemical methods have also shown promise for converting soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV) oxides. Despite these advances, the transition from laboratory powders to durable marine materials remains problematic. Key gaps include the need for antibacterial properties, mechanical stability under wave action, cost competitiveness with terrestrial mining, and environmental safety of nanomaterials. Artificial intelligence (AI) is proposed to accelerate the design of high-performance, stable materials. This perspective emphasizes the necessity for interdisciplinary research to bridge the gap between bench-scale innovations and practical ocean deployment.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3919-0

Full-space built-in electric field inside gradient Sn-doped β-Ga2O3 photoanodes for enhanced photoelectrochemical solar-blind UV photodetection

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Full-space built-in electric field inside gradient Sn-doped β-Ga2O3 photoanodes for enhanced photoelectrochemical solar-blind UV photodetection

β-Ga2O3 is a promising candidate for solar-blind ultraviolet photodetection owing to its suitable bandgap of approximately 4.9 eV, excellent photoresponse characteristics, and high stability. However, the lack of a sufficient driving force within the material leads to extensive bulk charge recombination, limiting its photocurrent and thus posing significant challenges in designing high-performance Ga2O3-based photodetection. In this study, we propose a gradient doping strategy to achieve a Sn-doping concentration gradient along the β-Ga2O3 film thickness. By combining sol–gel synthesis with rapid thermal annealing, a spatially graded band structure with a full-space built-in electric field is constructed, which increases the width of band bending over a large region and is crucial for significantly enhancing carrier separation and transport in the bulk. The resulting gradient Sn-doped β-Ga2O3 enables exceptional photoelectric performance without an external bias under 254 nm irradiation, including a superior responsivity of 66.88 mA W−1, a high detectivity of 8.12 × 10^11 Jones, and a fast rise/decay time of 79/65 ms, outstanding most existing similar reported photoelectrochemical (PEC) type optoelectronic devices. Additionally, the device exhibits excellent long-term stability and enables high-resolution underwater ultraviolet imaging. This study demonstrates that the gradient doping strategy provides a feasible approach for enhancing the PEC performance of β-Ga2O3 photoelectrodes.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3757-2

Multidirectional Self-Driven Polarization-Sensitive Photodetection Induced by Asymmetric Contact

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SCIENCE CHINA Materials2026

Multidirectional Self-Driven Polarization-Sensitive Photodetection Induced by Asymmetric Contact

Polar two-dimensional (2D) perovskites, with their excellent semiconductor properties, intrinsic anisotropy, and bulk photovoltaic effect, have emerged as promising candidates for self-driven polarization-sensitive photodetectors. However, these self-driven polarized detectors typically require fabrication along the spontaneous polarization direction to maintain device operation in the self-driven mode, which imposes additional limitations. Herein, we demonstrate multidirectional self-driven polarization-sensitive photodetection by constructing 2D perovskite-based asymmetric contact devices, Ag/2D perovskite/C. The built-in electric field, originating from the difference in work functions, acts as the driving force for the separation and transport of photogenerated carriers. Notably, this approach does not necessitate a specific direction, thereby enabling multidirectional self-driven photodetection. Under excitation by linearly polarized light, our devices exhibit impressive polarization-sensitive discrimination in multiple directions, achieving polarization ratios of 3.3 and 3.1 along the a and b-axes, respectively. Our work enriches the approaches enabling self-driven polarization-sensitive photodetection, free from the previous limitations.

Read Full Abstract10.1007/s40843-025-3708-y