SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4480-1
Ternary organic solar cells (OSCs) incorporating a structurally compatible guest acceptor (C7-Cl) into the PM6:BTP-eC9 host system are demonstrated. The low Flory-Huggins interaction parameter between host and guest acceptors facilitates intimate mixing, optimizing molecular packing and energy-level alignment. High-sensitivity sEQE and EQEEL analyses reveal a reduced non-radiative energy loss (KE3) of 0.216 eV in the ternary device. Consequently, the optimized ternary OSC achieves a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.02% and an improved T80 operational lifetime of 1065 h. This work establishes a feasible strategy via structurally compatible guest doping to simultaneously optimize vertical phase separation and suppress non-radiative loss, providing a facile and effective route toward high-performance and stable OSCs.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4477-7
The rapid demand for high-energy-density lithium batteries necessitates advanced solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) to overcome the safety and performance limitations of conventional liquid counterparts. Macrocyclic compounds, with their well-defined cavities, programmable binding sites, and tunable self-assembly, have emerged as powerful molecular regulators for designing next-generation SSEs. This review examines recent advancements in macrocyclic compound-based SSEs by categorizing their functions into four fundamental supramolecular regulation paradigms: cation-centered regulation (e.g., crown ethers), anion-centered regulation (e.g., calixarenes and calixpyrroles), channel-dominated transport (e.g., cyclodextrins), and hybrid regulation (e.g., cucurbiturils). We elucidate how these macrocycles precisely control ion coordination, modulate migration dynamics, and reshape interfacial chemistry, leading to enhanced ionic conductivity, improved Li+ transference numbers, suppressed lithium dendrite growth, and superior interfacial stability. While each paradigm offers distinct advantages, the most promising SSEs often leverage synergistic combinations of these strategies. Finally, we highlight the remaining challenges, including synthetic complexity and multi-objective performance trade-offs, and propose future research directions for developing highly efficient and durable macrocycle-based solid-state lithium batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3691-9
Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has significantly advanced NIR light sources, yet creating NIR emitters with optimal luminescence properties, high thermal stability, and adjustable emission peaks remains a critical challenge for future smart NIR devices. Here, we introduce a chemical unit cosubstitution strategy by incorporating Ca2+ and Sn4+ ions into the garnet structure. Through this approach, Y3−yCayGa4.95−ySnyO12:0.05Cr3+ (y = 0–1) phosphors were developed by modulating the A&C ligands, resulting in emission centers ranging from 708 to 768 nm. The modified local environment of Cr3+ accounts for the increased light intensity (2.71 times) and broadening observed. Furthermore, this study investigated the impact of varying Cr3+ concentrations (Y2.6Ca0.4Ga4.6−xSn0.4O12:xCr3+) on the production of high-performance phosphors. Compared with Y3Ga4.93O12:0.07Cr3+, the optimized phosphor exhibited exceptional external quantum efficiency (EQE = 34.96%). The luminescence enhancement is attributed to an increase in radiative transitions caused by octahedral Jahn-Teller distortion, whereas the notable thermal stability (91.3% at 423 K) is attributed to the presence of weak electron-phonon coupling (EPC) and oxygen vacancy (OV) defects. Finally, by combining it with a 450 nm blue LED chip, we constructed a near-infrared phosphor-converted LED (NIR pc-LED) device with superior electroluminescence efficiency (18.8% @ 100 mA), increasing the ultralow quenching rate (< 5% intensity loss after 30 days of operation) and demonstrating remarkable performance in plant lighting applications.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3603-2
Conventional glass fiber/epoxy (GF/EP) composites, while structurally competent, are hindered by poor interlaminar toughness, low thermal conductivity, and electromagnetic transparency. This study transforms GF/EP composites into advanced structural multifunctional materials by embedding Ti3C2Tx MXene/poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) aerogels (TPA) as integral interlayers. Hybrid composites with tailored architectures—aligned (GFAM_A) and random (GFAM_R) TPA/GF/EP laminates—were fabricated via unidirectional and isotropic freeze-casting, respectively. The integrated aerogel phase promotes crack deflection and distributed energy dissipation, leading to notable enhancements in interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and fracture toughness. The continuous Ti3C2Tx MXene network within the aerogel creates efficient through-thickness thermal conduction pathways and imparts strong microwave absorption properties. Notably, GFAM_A achieves simultaneous increases of approximately 52% in ILSS, 78% in toughness, and 42% in thermal conductivity, along with effective microwave absorption: a minimum reflection loss of −23.47 dB and a maximum effective bandwidth of 2.70 GHz. This study demonstrates that precision aerogel engineering provides a powerful strategy for upgrading conventional glass fiber composites into advanced multifunctional structural materials.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3689-9
Converting body heat into electricity presents an appealing route for sustainably powering wearable electronics; however, conventional thermoelectric materials face significant drawbacks, including high ionic concentrations, toxicity, and limited thermoelectric efficiency. Here, we report an ionic thermoelectric hydrogel designed through precise supramolecular chemistry, utilizing dual molecular interactions: host-guest complexation of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) with I3− ions and hydrogen bonding between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer chains and I3−. This molecularly tailored approach markedly amplifies thermoelectric performance, achieving a high thermopower of 2.21 mV/K and a tenfold enhancement in peak power output at an exceptionally low iodine concentration (10 mmol/L I− + 2.5 mmol/L I3−). The hydrogel maintains excellent biocompatibility and mechanical robustness, suitable for direct skin contact. Demonstrated applications include flexible thermoelectric devices generating nearly 100 mV from body heat and sensor arrays capable of motion and spatial temperature sensing. These results underscore the substantial potential of supramolecularly designed ionic thermoelectric hydrogels for wearable energy harvesting, personalized healthcare monitoring, and advanced human-computer interfaces.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3736-8
Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are porous crystalline materials assembled from organic building blocks via strong covalent bonds, offering well-defined pores, high surface area, and tunable properties for applications in gas storage, separation, catalysis, sensing, and energy conversion. However, conventional solvothermal synthesis requires high temperatures, long reaction times, and complex procedures, hindering scalability and increasing costs. Additionally, COFs are typically obtained as microcrystalline powders, limiting their direct use in flow processes. To overcome these barriers, a novel solid-state hot-pressing method was recently reported, enabling rapid synthesis of COF platelets with high crystallinity and porosity. This method involves applying pressure and heat simultaneously, reducing the energy barrier for monomer reactions and facilitating layer growth and stacking, as confirmed by density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulations. The approach demonstrated versatility by synthesizing 15 distinct COFs, including imine-, hydrazone-, β-ketoenamine-, and imide-linked frameworks, a three-dimensional COF (COF-300), and a mixed-monomer COF, all within 0.5–5 minutes. Notably, a free-standing COF platelet of 200 cm² was fabricated, showcasing scalability. This strategy addresses the trade-offs among synthetic convenience, product quality, environmental impact, and scalability, positioning COFs for commercial viability.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202507062
The construction of predictive models for the recurrence of blackening and odor in urban water bodies has become a critical foundation for refined management of urban water environments. Based on water quality monitoring data from 16 cities in the Yangtze River Basin from 2020 to 2023, this study systematically evaluated six typical comprehensive index calculation methods and proposed a probabilistic prediction model for water blackening and odor recurrence centered on the VIKOR composite index. Through sampling analysis and literature review, a power-law relationship between transparency (y) and turbidity (x) was established (y = 3.12x−0.66), leading to a critical turbidity threshold of 46.9 NTU for blackening and odor. Using ANOVA, recursive feature elimination, and random forest, five indicators—turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), total phosphorus (TP), permanganate index (CODMn), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N)—were selected as the model's indicator system, with importance ranking: turbidity > DO > TP > CODMn > NH3-N. The VIKOR composite index exhibited the most robust mapping relationship with blackening probability, achieving high accuracy (RMSE = 0.029, MAE = 0.020) and consistency (NSE = 0.918, R2 = 0.918), whereas models based on other indices yielded R2 values below 0.84. The model demonstrated good predictive performance across the Yangtze, Pearl, Haihe, and Yellow River basins. This model offers a universal decision-making tool for precise identification, early warning, and targeted management of water blackening and odor recurrence, with potential integration into urban water smart platforms.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202507051
This study investigated the dynamic characteristics and recovery of ammonia emissions from a growing-finishing pig house in Yanshi District, Luoyang City, Henan Province, China. High-sensitivity electrochemical sensors and an ammonia absorption recovery device were employed for continuous monitoring and treatment of exhaust air. The results revealed periodic fluctuations in ammonia emission concentrations, strongly correlated with indoor temperature and humidity. Over the entire monitoring period, the average daily ammonia concentration in exhaust air was 9.852 mg·m−3, below the national emission limit of 25 mg·m−3. However, during high-temperature periods (>30 °C), localized concentrations reached 38.36 mg·m−3. Humidity, particularly from spray cooling, temporarily suppressed ammonia volatilization, but its effect was modulated by temperature. Total ammonia emitted during the study was 1380.4 kg, with an average per-pig emission rate of 0.034 kg·d−1. After treatment with the exhaust gas absorption device, the average daily ammonia concentration dropped to 0.437 mg·m−3, achieving a mean recovery efficiency of 93.5%. These findings demonstrate that controlling environmental factors and employing external air absorption devices can significantly reduce ammonia emissions, offering a viable pathway for mitigating nitrogen pollution from livestock operations and promoting resource recovery.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202507057
This study presents a novel electrochemical sensor for the rapid detection of trace lead ions (Pb(II)) in water, utilizing a rod-shaped bismuth-based electrode. The electrode was fabricated by modifying a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with basic bismuth nitrate [Bi6O5(OH)3](NO3)5·3H2O, synthesized via a chemical precipitation method. The sensor was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), confirming the rod-like morphology and composition. Electrochemical detection was performed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in a 0.1 mol·L−1 NaAc-HAc buffer (pH 4.3). The sensor exhibited a linear detection range for Pb(II) from 1 to 90 μg·L−1, with a detection limit of 0.34 μg·L−1 and a sensitivity of 106 μA·(μmol·L−1)−1. The electrode demonstrated excellent anti-interference capability and reproducibility. Recovery tests in real water samples (tap water and campus lake water) yielded high recovery rates, indicating practical applicability. This work provides a simple, cost-effective, and reliable method for monitoring trace Pb(II) in environmental water, particularly relevant for public swimming pools and similar aquatic facilities.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2024092906
Microplastic pollution in rivers and lakes has become a research hotspot, yet studies in Anhui Province have predominantly focused on northern and central regions, leaving southern Anhui under-investigated. This study addresses that gap by examining the Xin'an River in Huangshan City, a typical river in southern Anhui. Surface water and sediment samples were collected in December 2023. In surface water, microplastic concentrations ranged from 350 to 3700 n·m−3, with particles of 0–0.5 mm dominating (33.93%). Fibrous shapes were most prevalent (59.83%), and colored particles accounted for 50.27%. In sediments, concentrations ranged from 25 to 200 n·kg−1, with 0–0.5 mm particles again dominant (49.63%). Fibers comprised 47.08% of sediment microplastics, and white particles accounted for 34.74%. Polymer analysis identified polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as the most abundant material (36.61%), followed by polyamide (PA) (23.22%). Source analysis suggests that fibrous microplastics originate primarily from fiber-based products such as clothing, home textiles, and fishing nets. These findings provide essential baseline data for water resource management, pollution assessment, and ecological remediation of the Xin'an River.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2024112102
Based on the 2022 activity data of non-road mobile sources in Hebei Province, this study employed the emission factor method recommended by the Guidelines to estimate emissions of CO, HC, NOx, PM2.5, PM10, and SO2. A comprehensive emission inventory was established, followed by spatial and uncertainty analyses. Scenario analysis, aligned with the 14th Five-Year Plan policies, was used to project emissions for 2030. The results indicate that non-road mobile sources in Hebei emitted 76.1×10^3 t of CO, 20.6×10^3 t of HC, 164.0×10^3 t of NOx, 8.5×10^3 t of PM2.5, 9.0×10^3 t of PM10, and 2.4×10^3 t of SO2. Agricultural machinery was the dominant contributor to CO, HC, PM2.5, and PM10, accounting for over 60.0% of CO emissions. Railway locomotives were the primary source of NOx, contributing 50.9%. For SO2, agricultural machinery and railway locomotives contributed 39.0% and 44.4%, respectively. The highest emitting cities were Tangshan (21.3%), Shijiazhuang (15.7%), Cangzhou (11.6%), and Handan (11.6%). Ship emissions were concentrated in Tangshan Port; civil aviation emissions were mainly in Shijiazhuang, Tangshan, Qinhuangdao, and Handan; railway emissions were distributed in Shijiazhuang, Baoding, and Handan. Under the updated emission standard scenario, NOx and PM10 emissions in 2030 could be reduced by approximately 35.0%. The phase-out of old machinery yielded the largest reduction in CO (36.0%), while both electrification and phase-out scenarios significantly impacted HC emissions.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225188
Driven by the urgent demand for green and low-carbon technologies, the development of high-performance and cost-effective rare-earth free permanent magnets has emerged as a key research focus for sustainable energy and advanced electronic applications. Among various candidates, M-type strontium ferrites have attracted considerable attention due to their excellent thermal stability, high magnetocrystalline anisotropy, and abundant raw material availability. In this study, Sr0.41La0.36Ca0.23Fe11.8Co0.2O19 was selected as the base system, and a series of samples were synthesized via a solid-state reaction combined with high-energy ball milling. The synergistic effects of varying CeO2/La2O3 mass ratios (0:10 to 10:0) and pre-sintering temperatures (1150-1200°C) on the microstructure and magnetic properties were systematically investigated. Microstructural analyses revealed that moderate Ce substitution effectively induced controlled lattice distortion and promoted densification, which inhibited abnormal grain growth and refined the microstructure. Such structural modulation not only enhanced domain wall pinning but also improved magnetocrystalline anisotropy, leading to a remarkable increase in coercivity. Magnetic measurements confirmed that the composition with a CeO2/La2O3 mass ratio of 2:8 and pre-sintered at 1180°C achieved the most balanced magnetic performance, exhibiting enhanced coercivity, sufficient remanence, and stable saturation magnetization. This work provides new insights into the cooperative effects between rare-earth doping ratios and thermal processing parameters, clarifying how lattice defects, grain boundary characteristics, and microstructural evolution collectively govern the magnetic properties of M-type ferrites. The findings establish a practical strategy for tailoring the microstructure-property relationship in rare-earth free permanent magnets, opening an optimized processing window for scalable fabrication of environmentally friendly, high-performance ferrite materials.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61101-8
Phenolic compounds are typical refractory organic pollutants in coal chemical coking wastewater, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health. Conventional treatment methods are inefficient, necessitating advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). Here, we report a low-cost Fe/N–C catalyst synthesized from coal-tar pitch, a common by-product of the coal chemical industry, via a self-assembly and pyrolysis strategy using graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) as a template and nitrogen source, with dicyandiamide as an auxiliary nitrogen source and FeCl3·6H2O as the iron precursor. The resulting nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets possess abundant defects (sp3-C/sp2-C = 0.66) and atomically dispersed iron species. The Fe/N–C catalyst exhibits outstanding catalytic activity for peroxydisulfate (PDS) activation, achieving over 98% phenol degradation within 30 minutes and a 60% total organic carbon (TOC) removal rate. Mechanistic studies, including radical quenching and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments, reveal that both radical and non-radical pathways contribute to phenol degradation, with singlet oxygen (1O2) as the primary reactive oxygen species. Electrochemical analyses demonstrate that atomically dispersed Fe sites significantly enhance interfacial electron transfer. Post-reaction characterization indicates the consumption of pyrrolic-N, C=O, and carbon defects as active sites, while graphitic-N and Fe–N structures remain stable, confirming the catalyst's stability. This work provides an economical route to convert coal-tar pitch into high-performance catalytic materials for efficient water treatment, embodying the circular economy concept of waste-to-resource utilization.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225241
Amid the global pursuit of carbon neutrality, the catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into high-value-added aromatics represents a critical frontier in sustainable chemistry. This process offers the dual benefit of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions while establishing a non-petroleum route for the production of indispensable platform chemicals. However, the practical realization of CO2 conversion is hindered by formidable challenges originating from the thermodynamic stability of CO2 and the kinetic challenges in C-C bond formation. This review provides a critical and comprehensive analysis of recent progress on CO2 hydrogenation to aromatics, focusing on the development of catalyst design, reaction kinetics, and reactor engineering, with the goal of accelerating industrial application. The two dominant reaction pathways, i.e., the methanol-intermediate and the olefin-intermediate routes, are summarized and progress in the design of efficient multifunctional catalysts for each pathway is given. A key point in bifunctional catalyst development is the challenge of balancing the synergy and separation of hydrogenation sites and acidic aromatization active sites. Synergy is crucial for driving the reaction equilibrium forward by rapidly consuming intermediates, whereas separation, often achieved through sophisticated architectures like core-shell structures, is vital for preventing deactivation, such as the migration of alkaline promoters into the zeolite (the aromatization component). Also, this review analyzes the kinetic modeling progress proposed for this complex, multi-step reaction system. For the initial CO2 conversion step, the authors highlighted the evolution of kinetic models, particularly the ongoing efforts to accurately quantify the critical water inhibition effect in methanol synthesis. For the subsequent aromatization stage, this review critically compares two distinct modeling strategies: the use of lumping models, which simplify the reaction network for robust engineering simulations, and the single-event microkinetic (SEMK) models, which offer profound mechanistic insights by considering elementary reaction steps. Furthermore, it is pointed out that these kinetic models serve as indispensable inputs for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, which guide the design, optimization, and scale-up of industrial reactors. These simulations can address practical engineering challenges such as thermal management to control hotspots and fluid dynamics to mitigate excessive pressure drop. By systematically bridging the conceptual gap from atomic-level catalyst design to macro-scale reactor optimization, this review provides theoretical guidance aimed at accelerating the engineering scale-up of this vital carbon utilization technology.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225264
The high cost of high-purity hydrogen necessitates the utilization of low-cost industrial by-product hydrogen as an alternative gas source to reduce hydrogen storage costs. Industrial by-product hydrogen typically contains impurities such as H2S and CO, yet the poisoning mechanisms of these gases on superlattice hydrogen storage alloys during hydrogen absorption/desorption remain poorly understood. This study systematically investigates the poisoning effects and regeneration behavior of La0.65Mg1.32Ca1.03Ni9Y0.17 superlattice hydrogen storage alloy in atmospheres containing 10^-3 H2S and CO. The experimental protocol comprised 10 poisoning cycles followed by 1 regeneration, repeated to total 20 poisoning cycles and 2 pure hydrogen regenerations. Results show that in pure hydrogen, the alloy's hydrogen storage capacity gradually decreases after 22 cycles but is effectively restored after dehydrogenation at 473 K. In the presence of impurity gases, the hydrogen storage capacity retention rates after 10 poisoning cycles with H2S and CO are 3.56% and 2.71%, respectively; after 20 cycles, these decrease to 3.68% and 1.73%, respectively. After dehydrogenation at 473 K, retention rates recover to 40.35% and 98.27%, respectively. This indicates that poisoning severity follows the order CO > H2S, while regeneration difficulty follows H2S > CO. X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that after poisoning, the main phase transforms from AB3 to AB3H, but reverts to AB3 after high-temperature dehydrogenation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows that after H2S poisoning, CaS and CaSO4 form on the alloy surface, indicating irreversible chemical adsorption. In contrast, after CO poisoning, no new substances are detected, indicating reversible adsorption. This study clarifies the differentiated poisoning mechanisms of impurity gases and provides theoretical support for the application of rare-earth superlattice hydrogen storage alloys in complex atmospheres.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3992-y
Two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit excellent electrical, optical, and mechanical properties, yet precise control over chiral 2D materials remains a significant challenge. This work introduces asymmetric side chain engineering to prepare helically grooved poly(3,5-disubstituted phenylacetylene)s (PPAs) and investigates the effect of their asymmetric contour on tailoring 2D nanostructures. Post-polymerization modification of a common platform polymer efficiently produced a series of rigid helical PPAs with varying alkyl side chain lengths while maintaining identical degrees of polymerization and distribution. Increasing side chain asymmetry yielded anisotropic hexagonal platelets with progressively higher aspect ratios, whereas symmetric side chains formed regular 2D hexagonal sheets. Notably, the largest side chain asymmetry generated supramolecular structures with distinct chiral vortices. Computational simulations elucidated different self-assembly mechanisms, revealing that vortex-like assemblies are kinetically stabilized rather than thermodynamically stable. All 2D assemblies exhibited significantly enhanced circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) compared to discrete polymer solutions, with dissymmetry factors (g_lum) reaching as high as 0.1. This work establishes side chain asymmetry as a crucial factor for programming supramolecular chirality and opens new avenues for developing advanced chiroptical materials.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3804-7
Supramolecular helical architectures hold promise for enantioselective catalysis, yet the influence of screw pitch on catalytic performance remains underexplored. Here, we report the construction of right-/left-handed helical nanoribbons (P/M-DAIPA) based on 5-aminoisophthalic acid dimer (DAIPA). Through an alcohol-mediated self-assembly strategy, the average screw pitch was tuned from 360 to 3152 nm. Mechanistic studies revealed that hydrogen-bonding interactions between DAIPA, modulated by alcohol identity and alcohol/water ratios, dictate helical morphology and pitch. Encapsulation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles yielded P-DAIPA-Fe3O4 and M-DAIPA-Fe3O4 nanozymes, which exhibited higher catalytic efficiency toward S-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and R-DOPA, respectively. Notably, catalytic enantioselectivity inversely correlated with screw pitch, achieving selectivity factors from 1.52 to 2.01. Experimental evidence demonstrated that shorter screw pitch enhances adsorption enantioselectivity of R/S-DOPA on the nanozymes, providing mechanistic insight into pitch-dependent asymmetric catalysis. This work deciphers solvent-driven control of supramolecular screw pitch and establishes a framework for engineering chiral nanozymes with tunable enantioselectivity, advancing enantioselective synthesis.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202606001
Municipal sludge anaerobic resource recovery efficiency in China lags behind developed countries. Widespread chemical phosphorus removal increases iron and aluminum salt precipitates in waste activated sludge, forming chemical-biological sludge that reduces acidogenic efficiency. This study identified key factors and developed a high-precision prediction model. Integrating literature and experimental data, acidogenic performance indicators under various conditions were compiled. Five machine learning models—Backpropagation Neural Network, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System, Support Vector Machine, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Random Forest—were systematically compared. Random Forest achieved the best predictive performance with a test set coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.9463, significantly outperforming others with minimal overfitting risk, demonstrating strong capability for high-dimensional, nonlinear, multi-factor coupled problems. Feature importance analysis revealed pH and Volatile Suspended Solids (VSS) as primary drivers, with aluminum salts exerting greater influence than iron salts. Engineering optimization should follow the pathway: 'adjust pH, stabilize organic matter, control aluminum salts'. This study provides an intelligent predictive tool and clarifies optimization directions, advancing precision and intelligent sludge treatment.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202606020
Municipal wastewater treatment plants in China face excessive influent grit loads and carbon source deficiencies, while conventional pretreatment (screening, grit chambers, primary sedimentation) exhibits low fine grit removal and poor carbon retention. A novel swinging ultra-fine screen with a screening precision of 0.1 mm was developed and tested at a pilot scale of 1000 m³/d. Systematic evaluation of screens with apertures from 0.05 to 0.4 mm was conducted, with mechanisms analyzed via particle size distribution, COD fractionation, and fouling layer characterization. The 0.1 mm screen achieved an SS removal efficiency of 89.3%, significantly higher than 57.4% for conventional processes, while COD removal was only 9.5% versus 28.6%, corresponding to a carbon source retention of 93%. The device nearly completely retained particles >0.1 mm and achieved >98% removal for particles in the 0.075–0.1 mm range. Performance remained stable under fluctuating COD and SS conditions. A three-stage fouling theory for micro-screens was proposed. This work represents the first application of 0.1 mm screening precision in pretreatment, markedly improving fine grit retention and carbon source preservation, with strong resilience to water quality variations.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3597-2
Magnetism and electric polarity are fundamental physical phenomena whose coupling gives rise to magnetoelectric (ME) effects. Multiferroics, materials hosting simultaneous ferroelectric and magnetic orders, offer cross-control mechanisms but face inherent incompatibility due to the d0 rule versus partially filled d/f orbitals. Improper ferroelectricity, as in h-YMnO3, circumvents this but yields weak polarization (<10 μC/cm2). Type-I multiferroics like BiFeO3 exhibit strong polarization (~100 μC/cm2) but weak ME coupling. This paper introduces autferroicity, a novel ferroic state where ferroelectric and magnetic orders are mutually exclusive, leveraging their repulsive coupling to achieve field-selective switching and strong ME response. Autferroics encode logic states in the identity of the active ferroic phase, enabling high-contrast, low-crosstalk nonvolatile memory. Their bistable energy landscape, reshaped by strong ME coupling, facilitates true random number generation (TRNG) with reduced energy barriers and higher switching frequencies. Practical realization demands advances in synthesis and phase control. Autferroicity offers a paradigm shift, exploiting ferroic exclusivity rather than coexistence, promising robust bistability and intrinsically strong ME coupling for next-generation devices.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3914-7
Incorporating fluorinated side-chains into M-series acceptors enhances the fill factor (FF) and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the impact of fluorinated side-chain positions on charge mobility and photovoltaic performance remains unexplored. Here, we synthesize a partially fluorinated alkyl chain, 7-butyl-1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoro-octyl, and attach it to either the oxygen or nitrogen atoms of the M-series acceptor backbone, yielding two new acceptors, O5F and N5F. Compared to O5F, N5F exhibits closer π-π stacking and higher charge mobility. Consequently, PM6:N5F-based devices achieve a PCE of 18.8% with an FF of 80.7%, surpassing PM6:O5F counterparts (PCE 17.8%, FF 79.2%). The 18.8% PCE is among the highest reported for A-D-A-type small-molecule acceptors. Notably, PM6:N5F devices show significantly improved operational stability, with a T80 lifetime of 1084 hours under one-sun illumination, versus 123 hours for PM6:O5F. This work demonstrates that positioning partially fluorinated side-chains on nitrogen atoms optimizes intermolecular packing and carrier transport, enhancing both efficiency and stability. It underscores the potential of partially fluorinated side-chains in designing high-performance NFAs.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025032004
This study proposes an integrated source apportionment framework that synergistically integrates pollution source classification, atmospheric dispersion modeling, backward trajectory analysis, weighted trajectory clustering, and forward contribution estimation to accurately target peak reduction at localized air pollution hotspots. Applied at the County-Town Scale in Beijing, this method was employed to investigate pollution episodes at the Tongzhou Dongguan monitoring site. Source classification relied on a pollution fingerprint database and temporal concentration profiles, while local contributions were quantified through combined air quality modeling and monitoring data. Forward and backward trajectory analyses enabled the identification of potential source regions and key contributors. Results indicate that construction dust, road dust, and emissions from the catering industry were the dominant local sources, with construction and road dust contributing most prominently to PM2.5 concentrations. Furthermore, abnormal PM2.5 increases were closely linked to low boundary layer height, weak winds, and high humidity, emphasizing the role of meteorological conditions in pollution accumulation. The proposed framework proves effective in pinpointing local pollution sources and offers a scientific basis for targeted air quality management at finer spatial scales.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3875-1
Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) from pure water is a promising strategy to address critical challenges in energy sustainability and environmental remediation. However, HER over single-component photocatalysts is intrinsically limited by inefficient carrier separation and relatively poor photostability. Forming abundant interfaces between two components is an effective approach for solving these issues. Herein, a series of hierarchical core-shell heterojunction photocatalysts, designated as F@Z-X, was rationally constructed by in situ growing ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) nanosheets on a Ti-based metal-organic framework (FIR-125), demonstrating remarkable structural stability. Due to the abundant intimate contact interfaces and well-matched band structure, the F@Z-X series exhibit enhanced HER performance. Among them, the optimized heterojunction [email protected] shows a photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 3789.45 μmol g−1 h−1, which is about 4.4 and 264.4 times higher than that of pristine ZIS (859.57 μmol g−1 h−1) and FIR-125 (15.32 μmol g−1 h−1), respectively. Moreover, the photocatalyst manifests excellent reusability and durability, maintaining its performance over five consecutive cycles and sixteen hours of continuous reaction. The outstanding performance of [email protected] may be ascribed to an optimal balance among three fundamental photocatalytic processes: sufficient light absorption, exceptional carrier separation, and appropriate surface reaction. This work offers valuable insights into the rational design and controllable synthesis of novel heterojunction photocatalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202511054
A novel S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst, Bi6O5(OH)3(NO3)5·3H2O/BiOBr0.8I0.2 (BON@BI), was synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal method using Bi6O5(OH)3(NO3)5·3H2O (BON), KBr, and KI as precursors. The mass ratio of BON to BiOBr0.8I0.2 (BI) was optimized, revealing that the 20% BON@BI composite (BON@BIOPT) exhibited the highest visible-light photocatalytic activity. Under 30 min of visible-light irradiation, BON@BIOPT achieved a 99.8% degradation efficiency of Rhodamine B (RhB), approximately twice that of pristine BI (52.2%). The composite displayed a rod-like morphology with uniform nanosheets, and its specific surface area increased from 32.54 m²·g⁻¹ (BI) to 44.7 m²·g⁻¹. The absorption edge red-shifted from 560 nm (BI) to 580 nm, narrowing the bandgap from 2.55 eV to 2.43 eV. The S-scheme heterojunction formed between BON and BI generates an internal electric field that effectively suppresses recombination of strongly reducing photogenerated electrons and strongly oxidizing holes, with superoxide radicals (O₂•⁻) and holes (h⁺) identified as the primary reactive species. BON@BIOPT exhibited excellent stability, retaining 88.6% degradation efficiency after seven consecutive cycles. It also demonstrated robust environmental adaptability, maintaining 85–98% degradation efficiency under various pH conditions and in the presence of interfering anions. The degradation pathway of RhB involves N-de-ethylation, cleavage of the conjugated chromophore, and deamination, ultimately mineralizing into low-molecular-weight organics, inorganic salts, CO₂, and H₂O. These results underscore the potential of BON@BIOPT for practical remediation of organic pollutants in water.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025041804
Ethylene diamine tetra (methylene phosphonic acid) sodium (EDTMPS), an organic phosphonate scale and corrosion inhibitor, is widely used in industrial recirculating cooling water systems. Its efficient degradation in blowdown water is critical for water reuse. This study employed a plate-frame electrochemical advanced oxidation (EAOP) system with a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode to degrade EDTMPS. The effects of operating conditions (temperature, voltage, liquid flow rate) and water quality parameters (pH, electrolyte concentration, chloride ion concentration) were systematically investigated. Optimal degradation efficiency of 99.48% was achieved at 50 °C, 300 mL·min−1, 7.0 V, pH 10, and 0.05 mol·L−1 Na2SO4. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) characterization of chloride-containing systems indicated that reactive species included hydroxyl radicals, sulfate radicals, and possibly chlorine radicals. In a coexisting system with benzotriazole (BTA), EAOPs degraded EDTMPS and BTA with comparable efficiencies. The results demonstrate that BDD-based EAOPs is effective for removing organic phosphonates from low-chloride, low-hardness cooling water, offering a promising approach for blowdown water treatment and reuse.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3951-4
Silicon anodes offer an ultrahigh theoretical capacity (4200 mAh g−1) but suffer from >300% volumetric expansion during cycling and unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, leading to rapid capacity fading. Here, we design a hierarchical composite p-cSi@aSi@MgSiN2@C featuring a porous crystalline-amorphous silicon core (p-cSi@aSi), an in-situ MgSiN2 transition layer, and an outer nitrogen-doped carbon shell. The 3D interconnected pores accommodate volume expansion, while amorphous silicon enables isotropic lithiation-induced strain, eliminating crystalline phase transition barriers. The MgSiN2 layer transforms into a tough Li3N-rich SEI with ultra-fast ion channels, and the carbon shell provides mechanical confinement and electronic conductivity. This synergistic interface engineering achieves an initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) of 81.4%, a charge transfer resistance of 16.4 Ω after 200 cycles (64% reduction), and a Li+ diffusion coefficient of 1.72×10−11 cm2 s−1. The anode delivers 1719.3 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C after 200 cycles and 823.8 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C after 500 cycles. The molten salt electrolysis synthesis achieves a current efficiency of 68.12% and specific energy consumption of 12.76 kWh kg−1, with an estimated electricity cost of 1154.69 USD ton−1, only 20% of commercial Si/C anodes. This work resolves the ICE-cycle life trade-off and provides a scalable, cost-effective approach for next-generation high-energy batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4124-x
Aerogel fibers, featuring distinct porous architecture and fiber flexibility, have emerged as leading materials for personal thermal protection; however, complex drying processes and singular thermal insulation mechanisms limit their use in complex environments. Here, aramid nanofiber/carbon nanotube (ANF/CNT) aerogel fibers integrating passive thermal insulation and active solar heating were fabricated via wet-spinning and ambient-pressure drying (APD). The incorporation of CNT and Ca2+ generates abundant physical and chemical crosslinking points, strengthening the nanofiber network skeleton and reducing structural collapse during APD to only 8.9% shrinkage. The resulting ANF/CNT aerogel textiles exhibit low thermal conductivity of 33.8–40.4 mW/(m K) and thermal insulation capability from −196 to 400 °C. The photothermal effect of CNT enables active solar heating, effectively supplementing passive insulation and allowing survival in extremely cold environments. In real tests, the synergistic effect improved skin temperature by up to 5.9 °C, significantly higher than 1.6 °C from passive insulation alone. These ANF/CNT aerogel fibers combine flexibility, mechanical strength, and flame retardancy, demonstrating promising potential for smart, controllable personal thermal management applications.