SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4472-0
Dynamic electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring during physical activity remains compromised by motion artifacts that corrupt signal fidelity, particularly with conventional gel electrodes whose impedance rises sharply under deformation. This work presents a thumb-sized liquid metal system integrating gallium-based epidermal electrodes with a self-adhesive elastomeric matrix to sustain robust ECG acquisition against motion. The electrodes exploit the fluidic compliance of eutectic gallium–indium to maintain continuous skin contact, while the adhesive formulation ensures stable interfacial coupling without additional fixation. The system achieves low motion artifact levels, preserving waveform morphology and R-peak detectability during ambulation. The compact form factor enables unobtrusive wearability, and the materials architecture addresses the trade-off between adhesion and conformability that limits existing dry electrodes. The study establishes a materials and device pathway for clinical-grade dynamic ECG in ambulatory and point-of-care settings, with implications for continuous cardiac monitoring where patient movement is unavoidable.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4267-y
The synthesis of two-dimensional MBenes from MAB-phase ceramics is impeded by uncontrolled etching kinetics that compromise structural integrity and yield. This study introduces a vacuum molten salt strategy to regulate space-charge accumulation during the selective removal of Al from Mo2AlB2, producing honeycomb-like architectures. The vacuum environment suppresses oxidative side reactions and modulates ionic transport, enabling precise control over etching depth and morphology. The resulting Mo2AlB2 exhibits exceptional electromagnetic wave absorption, with a minimum reflection loss of -56.3 dB at 2.4 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth of 6.8 GHz. These metrics surpass conventional etching-derived MBenes by a factor of 2.5 in attenuation capacity. The space-charge-regulated mechanism is elucidated through in situ spectroscopic and computational analyses, revealing that vacancy-induced charge redistribution governs the etching front propagation. This work establishes a scalable route for high-purity MBenes with tailored porosity, addressing critical bottlenecks in energy absorption and catalytic applications. The vacuum molten salt approach eliminates the need for hazardous HF, offering a safer and more environmentally benign pathway for industrial translation.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4405-9
Conventional metal-halide X-ray scintillators, including Bi4Ge3O12 (BGO), Cs(Na)I:Tl, and Lu1.8Y0.2SiO5:Ce (LYSO), suffer from hygroscopic decomposition, high-temperature fabrication, and mechanical rigidity, which restrict their deployment in harsh-environment radiography. This study reports a nontoxic zero-dimensional organic–inorganic hybrid copper(I) halide, Cu2I2(C26H36NP)2 (Compound G), synthesized via a room-temperature solution route. The bulky phosphine ligands confer exceptional superhydrophobicity, with the material retaining 91.95% of its initial luminescence after 30 days of water immersion. A flexible scintillator screen fabricated from styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene (SEBS) exhibits a light yield of ~32,500 photons MeV-1, a spatial resolution of 19.14 lp mm-1, and a detection limit of 0.8 μGyair s-1. The screen enables stable X-ray imaging under flexible, high-temperature, and underwater conditions, eliminating vignetting and distortion in nonplanar objects. These metrics demonstrate that the superhydrophobic copper(I) halide scintillator addresses the water-stability bottleneck of commercial scintillators while delivering competitive light output and resolution, offering a viable pathway for medical diagnosis, nondestructive inspection, security checking, and space exploration.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4432-9
Sodium vanadium phosphate (Na3V2(PO4)3, NVP) with NASICON structure is a promising cathode for sodium-ion batteries but suffers from low electronic conductivity and a high energy barrier for the V4+/V5+ redox couple, limiting practical energy density. A medium-entropy tuning strategy yields the multi-element substituted Na3.2V1.5Cr0.1Fe0.1Mn0.1Ni0.1Ti0.1(PO4)3 (ME-NVP). Entropy modulation tailors the microscopic electronic structure, enabling reversible V4+/V5+ redox at 4.0 V. Analyses reveal a synergistic diffusion mechanism that accelerates Na+ transport and enhances multiple-electron redox kinetics. Ex-situ X-ray diffraction confirms highly reversible structural evolution during cycling. The ME-NVP cathode delivers 116.8 mAh g-1 at 0.1C and retains 83.9% of initial capacity after 1000 cycles at 20C, with excellent performance from -12 to 50 °C. This work demonstrates that configurational entropy regulation unlocks high-energy polyanion cathodes for advanced sodium-ion batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4246-5
Developing organic solar cells (OSCs) processable from green solvents without additives or post-treatments is essential for sustainable manufacturing, yet high power conversion efficiency (PCE) remains difficult due to limited morphology control. Herein, we develop a new electron-deficient building block, dithiazolo[4',5':3,4;5'',4'':5,6]benzo[1,2-d][1,2,3]triazole (DTzBT), which fuses benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole (BTA) with thiazole to leverage S/N-mediated non-covalent interactions, enhance planarity and lower the HOMO. To isolate side-chain effects, two DTzBT-based donors, namely PTzMe-F (N-methyl) and PTzEH-F (N-2-ethylhexyl), have been designed and synthesized. PTzMe-F exhibits poor solubility and miscibility with L8-BO, yielding 2.64% PCE (chloroform). PTzEH-F exhibits excellent processability and favorable morphology, delivering 17.61% PCE (chloroform) and 19.17% as-cast from toluene without any additive or post-treatments. In addition, the ternary LbL device based on PTzEH-F/L8-BO:PC71BM achieved an impressive efficiency of 20.27%. Comprehensive characterization indicates that 2-ethylhexyl side chains afford optimal solubility while preserving strong intermolecular interactions and favorable phase separation. DTzBT mitigates BTA’s HOMO-raising tendency via electron-withdrawing thiazole fusion, reconciling aggregation tunability with energy-level control. These results show that precise backbone and side-chain co-design enables green-solvent, additive-free processing for high-performance OSCs, advancing sustainable photovoltaic manufacturing.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4202-3
Carbon dots (CDs) with absorption in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II, 900-1700 nm) hold promise for tumor theranostics, yet existing synthesis methods often involve complex procedures, harsh conditions, or lack precise control. Here we report a 'self-photooxidation-restructuring' strategy that enables structural reorganization of the carbon core in CDs, achieving a significant redshift of absorption into the NIR-II region. Under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation, the precursor (B-CDs, absorption in UV region) generates singlet oxygen, which self-oxidizes aldehyde groups and the carbon skeleton of B-CDs to stronger electron-withdrawing carboxyl groups and carbon radicals, respectively. These processes facilitate the formation of new C=C bonds between isolated aromatic domains, thereby transforming B-CDs into novel CDs (N-CDs) characterized by enhanced donor-acceptor interactions and a redshift in absorption toward the NIR-II window. Various experimental data, including high-resolution XPS, FTIR, NMR, EPR, have proved the proposed formation mechanism. The novel N-CDs afforded a high photothermal conversion efficiency of up to 71.33%, which enabled 1064 nm laser-activated photoacoustic imaging (PAI)-guided photothermal therapy (PTT) in tumors. This work opens a new avenue for the synthesis and modulation of CDs in the NIR-II region.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4369-1
Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries for large-scale energy storage due to sodium's abundance and low cost. Among cathode materials, polyanionic compounds like Na3V2(PO4)2O2F (NVPOF) offer high energy density and dual voltage plateaus at ~3.6 and 4.0 V, but suffer from low electronic conductivity and sluggish Na+ diffusion. Here, we report a dual-modulation strategy combining high-valence Nb5+ doping and polydopamine-derived carbon coating to synthesize Na3V1.94Nb0.06(PO4)2O2F-C (NVPOF-Nb-C) via a hydrothermal route. X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement confirm that Nb5+ doping induces slight lattice expansion without altering the tetragonal I4/mmm framework. Density functional theory calculations reveal that Nb5+ doping optimizes the crystal structure and reduces the Na+ diffusion barrier, while the uniform carbon coating enhances electron transport. Consequently, NVPOF-Nb-C exhibits remarkably improved electrochemical performance, including high reversible capacity, excellent rate capability, and ultralong cycling stability. In a full cell with hard carbon anode, it delivers a high energy density of 487.2 Wh kg−1 at 1C and retains 91.51% capacity after 3000 cycles at 20C. This work provides a synergistic strategy to overcome the intrinsic limitations of polyanionic cathodes for practical SIB applications.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4315-2
High-temperature X-ray imaging demands scintillators with high crystallinity, efficient scintillation, and robust thermal stability, yet suitable materials remain scarce. Here, we report an ultra-high-crystallinity transparent glass-ceramic (GC) scintillator strategically designed via controllable heat-treatment-induced crystallization. A sequential precipitation method is employed, where cubic CaF2 nanocrystals initially form, subsequently promoting heterogeneous nucleation and growth of hexagonal BaAl2Si2O8. Intrinsic nanoscale phase separation into F-rich and O-rich domains significantly reduces atomic diffusion distances, yielding an unprecedented crystallinity of up to 97.6%. Notably, defect traps (oxygen vacancy defects, likely located within the lattice or at crystalline/amorphous interfaces) enable efficient carrier capture and thermally stimulated release, contributing to remarkable resistance to thermal quenching. Consequently, the GC scintillator maintains 90.6% of its integrated X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) intensity at 300 °C, with the integrated XEL intensity reaching 94.2% of commercial Bi4Ge3O12 (BGO) at room temperature. This enables stable high-temperature X-ray imaging with a spatial resolution of ~10.4 lp mm−1 up to 225 °C. This work provides a versatile pathway for developing high-sensitivity scintillators for extreme-environment X-ray imaging.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4217-y
Rational design and construction of effective photocatalysts is a promising way for green and sustainable chemistry, but still a great challenge. Herein, taking triphenylamine-containing aldehydes as reactants, two covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs), tris(4-formylphenyl)amine (TPA)-CTF and tris(4-formylbiphenyl)amine (TBPA)-CTF, were rationally constructed. The strong electron donor property of the triphenylamine moieties derived from the initial reactants and the strong electron acceptor nature of the in-situ formed built-in triazine rings in CTFs endowed these robust triphenylamine-based CTFs with donor-acceptor (D-A) or donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) structure features. Photocatalytic experiments revealed that, compared with the controlled phenyl analogue CTF, 1,3,5-tri(p-formylphenyl)benzene (TFPB)-CTF, both of the triphenylamine-based CTFs exhibited superior photocatalytic activity not only in photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide generation, but also in photocatalytic aerobic oxidations of diverse organic substrates. Theoretical studies further confirmed that their enhanced photocatalytic performance should be attributed to their unique D-A or D-π-A features in the constructed triphenylamine-based CTFs. This work successfully demonstrated that rational selection of reactants containing electron donor moieties to construct CTFs should be a reliable way for the construction of effective photocatalysts for photocatalytic oxidation reactions.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3828-y
The rapid development of halogen-free solvent-processed organic solar cells (OSCs) has been enabled by side-chain modification on small molecular acceptors, yet the structure-property relationship between inner/outer chain lengths and device performance remains unclear. This study systematically investigates five non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs) with varied side-chain positions and architectures, clarifying the effects of inner versus outer modifications on energy level distribution, film morphology, and carrier dynamics. Notably, longer alkyl chains are not always superior; excessive solubility reduces molecular packing order. The optimized PM6:BTP-TO12 blend achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.2%. Furthermore, ternary OSCs incorporating BTP-TO12 as a guest material reach a remarkable PCE of 19.5%, enhancing the performance of L8-BO-based devices processed with green solvents. This improvement is attributed to the low energy loss and well-controlled aggregation behavior of BTP-TO12 in environmentally friendly toluene. These findings establish a design guideline for side-chain engineering in green-solvent-processed OSCs, achieving state-of-the-art performance and advancing scalable, eco-compatible photovoltaic technologies.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3642-4
High-density glass scintillators are promising alternatives to crystals for next-generation radiation detection due to their low cost, excellent physical and chemical stability, and processability. In this study, a series of Ce3+-activated gadolinium gallium borosilicate (GGBS x) glasses were synthesized via vacuum melt-quenching. With increasing Gd2O3 content, glass density increased from 5.86 to 6.05 g/cm3, and molar volume from 36.43 to 39.79 cm3/mol. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analysis revealed that in GGBS 1 glass, Ce3+ exclusively adopts a hexahedral [CeO6] configuration, while Gd3+ exhibits both hexahedral and octahedral coordination with a bond length of 2.35±0.1 Å and Debye-Waller factor σ2 of 0.0122±0.0015 Å2. As Gd2O3 content increased, shallow trap depth rose from 0.804 to 0.858 eV, while deep trap depth first increased from 0.948 to 1.434 eV then decreased to 1.010 eV. GGBS 1 glass exhibited high transmittance (~80%) in the visible range and a photoluminescence quantum yield of 78.4%. Under X-ray irradiation, its X-ray excited luminescence intensity reached 128.5% of that of Bi4Ge3O12 (BGO) crystal, with a spatial resolution of 29.1 lp/mm, approaching the highest reported for glass scintillators. Under γ-ray excitation, it achieved a light yield of 1058 photons/MeV and an energy resolution of 23.7% at 662 keV. These results indicate that GGBS 1 glass scintillator warrants further development for applications in X-ray imaging and γ-ray spectroscopy.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3658-1
Organic-inorganic hybrid copper(I) halide semiconductors have attracted extensive attention for applications in phosphor-converted white light-emitting diodes (pc-WLEDs), X-ray imaging, and photodetectors because of their superior photo/radioluminescence, structural diversity, and eco-friendliness. In previous work, a strategy combining coordinated anionic inorganic modules with cationic derivatives yielded highly efficient blue-emitting hybrids, but synthesis complexity limited practical use. Here, we report a facile, efficient, and rapid solution-based ultrasonic treatment method for synthesizing high-performance blue-emitting phosphors using inexpensive, commercially available tetraethylammonium halides (TEAX, X = Cl, Br, I). The synergistic interplay of ionic and covalent bonds in these compounds endows them with a high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 70% and excellent stability. These materials exhibit thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF), delivering outstanding performance in pc-WLEDs and X-ray imaging. Their exceptional properties highlight significant potential for use in optoelectronic devices and X-ray scintillators. This work provides an important reference for rapid synthesis of high-performance copper(I) halide hybrid phosphors and paves the way for commercial application.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3744-9
The high-value utilization of industrial wastes is critically important for environmental protection and sustainable development. In this work, amorphous NaFeP2O7 (NFPO) and NaFeP2O7/rGO (NFPO/rGO) composite are synthesized via a selective chemical precipitation approach, utilizing industrial jarosite residue as the iron source. The sodium storage performance and mechanism of this amorphous NFPO/rGO composite as a novel cathode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are explored for the first time. The as-synthesized amorphous NFPO/rGO composite exhibits outstanding long-term cycling performance of 79.1 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 0.1 A g−1, while the crystalline NFPO/rGO composite does not work. Galvanostatic intermittent titration technique and in-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis demonstrate that the amorphous NFPO/rGO composite has high Na+ diffusivity and fast kinetics. In-situ X-ray diffraction analysis reveals the structure change from amorphous NaFeP2O7 to triclinic Na2FeP2O7 during the first discharge process and then evolves to a highly disordered structure in the subsequent charge/discharge cycles. The present work not only provides an avenue for the high-value utilization of jarosite residue but also offers theoretical guidance for the structural design and development of NaFeP2O7-based cathode materials for SIBs.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3746-x
The polyanionic compound Na3V2(PO4)2O2F (NVPOF) possesses a stable three-dimensional framework, high theoretical specific capacity, and favorable operating voltage, yet its sluggish Na+ diffusion kinetics and low electronic conductivity impede industrial application. This study proposes a dual regulation strategy combining carbon coating and heat treatment temperature to synergistically enhance crystallinity and electrochemical performance. NVPOF@C-400 and NVPOF@C-600 were synthesized via in-situ dopamine hydrochloride coating followed by heat treatment at 400 °C and 600 °C, respectively. Carbon coating at 600 °C significantly improved crystallinity and increased electronic conductivity by three orders of magnitude through the carbon layer's conductive network. The ~4.5 nm carbon layer effectively suppressed abnormal grain growth and secondary crystallization aggregation at high temperatures, maintaining uniform particle size of approximately 0.36 μm, which shortens Na+ diffusion pathways and prevents ion transport obstruction. Consequently, NVPOF@C-600 delivered a high discharge capacity of 102.5 mAh g−1 at 20 C and retained 96.5% capacity after 10,000 cycles. In a full-cell configuration with hard carbon (HC), NVPOF@C-600//HC achieved an impressive 89.3% capacity retention after 9,000 cycles. This work provides critical insights for practical implementation of high-performance NVPOF cathodes in sodium-ion batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3653-2
Designing photosensitizers with efficient intersystem crossing (ISC) and long-lived triplet excited states is critical for photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, conventional molecular design principles often rely on heavy-atom effects or specific donor-acceptor architectures, limiting generality. Here, we report a facile and rational strategy to convert intrinsically non-photosensitizing fluorophores into effective reactive oxygen species (ROS) generators by introducing guanidinium substituents. The modified photosensitizers exhibit prolonged triplet excited state lifetimes and considerable ROS production, in stark contrast to unmodified fluorophores which show intense fluorescence and negligible ROS generation. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry confirm the formation of stable nitrogen-centered radical cations on the guanidinium moiety, stabilized by p-π conjugation. Mechanistic studies indicate that these radicals promote ISC and prolong triplet state lifetimes. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that guanidinium-modified photosensitizers induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) and elicit potent anti-tumor immunity. This work provides a universal and facile strategy for designing organic photosensitizers through stable radical cation-containing building blocks, expanding the scope of PDT agents.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61036-5
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.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61072-4
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.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3748-9
Direct regeneration is a sustainable solution for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), yet the irregular strains induced by the irreversible FePO4 phase after cycling hinder Li+ replenishment in spent LiFePO4 cathodes. This study proposes a lattice stress modulation strategy that reduces FePO4 to Fe2P2O7, reducing unit cell volume from 271.7 to 122.6 Å3, releasing residual stress and reconstructing continuous Li+ transport channels. The phase transformation reconstructs FeO6 octahedra, lowering the migration energy barrier for ions. This synergistically weakens steric effects, facilitating Li+ replenishment and eliminating Li-Fe anti-site defects. Regenerated LiFePO4 cathodes achieve 80.2% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 2C, outperforming commercial cathodes. The work establishes fundamental principles for the pre-treatment stage of direct regeneration and provides a paradigm-shifting solution for sustainable LIB recycling.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3838-5
Air-permeable and ultrathin conductive electrodes are essential for next-generation soft electronics, including breathable wearables, on-skin devices, and bio-integrated electronics. However, conventional metallization strategies, such as sputtering and ink-printing, often suffer from severe vertical charge leakage due to the porous and ultrathin characteristics of nanofibrous networks, leading to device short-circuiting, operational failure, and limited vertical integration. Here, we present a solvent-selective dissolution-assisted transfer printing strategy to achieve surface-confined metallization of ultrathin, lightweight, and gas-permeable nanofibrous networks, enabling lateral conductivity while maintaining vertical insulation. This transfer printing process facilitates not only the rapid formation of conductive patterns on the surface of nanofibrous networks but also mechanical reinforcement through solvent evaporation-induced interlocked fiber-fiber welding. Meanwhile, the strategy preserves the high permeability of the nanofibrous networks and imparts a unique combination of surface conductivity (2 Ω cm) and vertical insulativity (10^11 Ω cm). The resulting anisotropic conductive networks enable low-voltage wearable heaters, high-sensitive pressure sensors, and ultralight temperature sensors. A pressure-temperature dual-modal sensing patch is further fabricated for intelligent grasping classification. The proposed surface-confined metallization strategy enables rapid fabrication of an anisotropic conductive network as a building block to construct air-permeable, ultrathin, and lightweight wearable electronics.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61069-4
Four-directional dual-matrix C/C composites were fabricated from PAN-based carbon fibers using a combined approach of soft-hard hybrid weaving preform molding, chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) of pyrolytic carbon (PyC), and high-pressure impregnation and carbonization of pitch-derived carbon. The ablation resistance was evaluated in a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, and the ablation behavior was investigated. The carbon rods, formed by twisting and carbonizing fiber bundles, exhibited a hexagonal cross-section, surrounded by a dense PyC 'wall' structure. The linear ablation rates after pulse I and pulse II were 0.068 mm/s and 0.113 mm/s, respectively. A cellular-like PyC layer and nanowire structures were deposited on the surface of the throat convergent section during the post-combustion cooling phase, while cracks and delamination occurred on and within the divergent section. The ablation process involved ultra-high temperatures, high-speed gas scouring, oxygen-containing thermochemical ablation, and thermal shock. This work elucidates the ablation behaviors under dual-pulse conditions and provides technical guidance for designing C/C composites for extreme environments.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202506081
Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are promising for degrading organic pollutants in water treatment. Heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO) has gained attention due to its high oxidation efficiency, strong interference resistance, and low secondary pollution. In this study, a series of trimetallic-carbon composite ozone catalysts were prepared via an organic precursor calcination method using γ-Al2O3 as support. This method enhanced catalytic activity and mechanical strength while overcoming the limitations of carbon materials (low mechanical strength) and metal-based materials (poor mass transfer). The optimized catalyst, CA-FeCoCu, comprising Fe, Co, Cu, carbon, and alumina, exhibited excellent performance in phenol degradation and real industrial wastewater treatment. Characterization revealed that the synergistic effect of trimetals and the introduction of multiple carbon types increased specific surface area and hydroxyl radical (·OH) generation. In a pilot-scale fixed-bed reactor, the CA-FeCoCu/O3 system reduced COD from 120 mg·L−1 to below 40 mg·L−1, with an O3 consumption ratio (O/C) of less than 1, effectively lowering operational costs. This work provides a new strategy for developing efficient and stable heterogeneous O3 catalysts and offers a reference for the practical application of HCO in industrial wastewater treatment.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.3724/2097-213X.2025.JFCT.0025
Endogenous alkali and alkaline earth metals (AAEMs) in biomass ash and pyrolysis temperature significantly influence the properties of pyrolysis polygeneration products. This study selected potassium (K+) and calcium (Ca2+) as representative AAEMs, added them at mass ratios of 2%, 5%, and 7% to corn stover via impregnation, and conducted fixed-bed pyrolysis at 400, 500, and 600 °C to investigate the yields and compositions of gas, liquid, and solid products. Results showed that increasing metal ion concentration significantly increased biochar yield, with Ca2+ at 7% achieving 24.96% biochar yield, while bio-oil yield generally decreased. Ca2+ strongly promoted H2 formation due to its Lewis acidity, reaching 32.49% in gas at 7% concentration, and facilitated furan enrichment to 65.88%. K+ at low concentrations favored phenolic formation, while high concentrations promoted ketones and intensified bio-oil cracking. Increasing temperature from 400 to 600 °C decreased biochar yield and increased gas yield, with high temperatures enhancing secondary cracking and reforming, significantly raising H2 and CH4 yields while suppressing oxygenates. At 600 °C, K+ catalysis increased acids to 39.41%, while Ca2+ maintained furans at 65.89%. This study demonstrates that adjusting metal ion concentration and temperature enables directional regulation of high-value bio-oil components and high-energy gases, providing a theoretical basis for optimized biomass pyrolysis utilization.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2024102303
Fluoride-containing wastewater treatment typically relies on calcium-based precipitation and flocculation, which suffer from low compliance rates and difficult valorization of fluoride-laden sludge. This study introduces a novel bismuth upconversion luminescent glass (BULG) synthesized from Bi2O3, SiO2, Yb2O3, and Er2O3, designed for efficient fluoride removal and subsequent photocatalytic application. By varying the Bi2O3:SiO2 molar ratio, a series of BULGs with superior upconversion luminescence were obtained. Under optimal conditions (Bi3+:F− molar ratio = 1:1, pH = 2), fluoride removal efficiencies exceeded 97% for all compositions, with the 0.7:0.3 Bi2O3:SiO2 formulation achieving 99.9% removal and rapid settling of the precipitate. The fluoride removal products retained upconversion luminescence and exhibited semiconductor heterojunctions, enabling complete photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin (100% within 60 min). This approach not only efficiently removes fluoride ions but also valorizes the waste into a functional photocatalyst, offering a promising strategy for fluoride-containing wastewater treatment.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202604004
Tire wear particles (TWPs) are emerging pollutants and constitute the dominant type of microplastics (MPs) in urban stormwater runoff, accounting for up to 90% of MPs in some cases. They are characterized by small size, high mobility, complex composition, and significant toxicity. Current research on TWPs remains fragmented, lacking a comprehensive understanding of their environmental behaviors and pollution control in aquatic systems. This review systematically analyzes the enrichment and vectoring roles of TWPs for coexisting pollutants, and their environmental fate, including ecotoxicological impacts, detection methodologies, release of intrinsic additives, and aggregation and sedimentation behaviors. Drawing on insights from other microplastic studies, the paper explores control technologies across the pollution pathway—source, transport, and terminal treatment—and proposes feasible management strategies. Key findings indicate that TWPs can adsorb heavy metals and organic contaminants, with adsorption capacities influenced by aging processes. Their aggregation is governed by solution chemistry, with critical coagulation concentrations varying with ionic strength and pH. The release of additives such as zinc and benzothiazoles is significant, posing ecological risks. Future research should focus on real-water aggregation mechanisms, additive release under natural conditions, long-term performance of treatment facilities like constructed wetlands under TWPs stress, enzymatic degradation pathways, and integration of AI, big data, and IoT for cost-effective detection and risk modeling. This review provides a scientific basis for developing targeted pollution control measures for TWPs in aquatic environments.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225213
Gas-liquid stirred tanks are widely used in oxidation, hydrogenation, and other chemical processes, where the gas dispersion state directly affects production efficiency. This study systematically investigated the effects of impeller type, impeller installation height, and rotational speed on gas-liquid dispersion in a stirred tank equipped with a porous tube sparger. Two typical impellers, a wide hydrofoil (WH) and a half-elliptical disk turbine (HEDT), were tested at various installation heights (L/D ratios) and gassing rates. The critical rotational speed for complete gas dispersion, agitation power consumption, and overall gas holdup were measured. Results showed that for both impellers, the critical Froude number (Fr) decreased significantly with increasing gas flow number (FlG). Under the same gassing rate, the HEDT impeller generally required a higher critical Fr and greater agitation power for complete dispersion compared to the WH impeller. Relative power demand (RPD) decreased as FlG increased, with a more pronounced decline at higher L/D ratios. At different impeller positions, the RPD of the HEDT impeller was higher than that of the WH impeller, indicating that the HEDT impeller's power was less affected by gas. Notably, the impeller installation height significantly influenced gas holdup and power consumption. When L/D = 0.75, higher gas holdup and lower power consumption were observed. This work provides crucial theoretical and data support for optimizing the design of gas-liquid stirred tanks with gas sparging, offering clear engineering value for enhancing mass transfer efficiency and energy-saving operation in chemical processes.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3470-6
Inkjet printing of two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides (TMDs) is promising for low-cost, large-scale flexible electronics, yet challenges persist due to poor crystallinity and toxic solvents. Here, we report a green ink formulation using zwitterionic cocamidopropyl betaine (CAB) as a dispersant and surfactant for liquid-phase exfoliation of single-crystalline TMDs in water and isopropanol (IPA). The dispersions contain no additives or binders, enabling direct production of stable (over one month) and concentrated (2 mg/mL) inks for MoS2, MoTe2, WS2, WSe2, and WTe2. Fully-printed MoSe2/CAB humidity sensors exhibit superior sensitivity (ΔI/I0 = 468.1) and rapid response/recovery times (27 s/0.42 s) under bending. Inkjet-printed WTe2/CAB pads on 6-μm-thick substrates demonstrate exceptional mechanical stability, with resistance variations of 1.4% under single bending and 2% after 1,000 cycles, and acquire high-quality electrocardiogram (ECG) and electromyography (EMG) signals. This strategy enables scalable fabrication of TMD-based flexible electronics, advancing industrial integration.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61117-1
Graphite-based bipolar plates (GBPs) are critical components in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), offering excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability. However, their inherent brittleness and porous structure lead to inadequate mechanical strength and high gas permeability, limiting practical application and large-scale manufacture. This review summarizes recent advances in GBP fabrication, focusing on the effects of graphite raw materials, polymer matrices, conductive and reinforcing fillers, and molding processes on GBP performance. The relationships among graphite particle size, morphology, surface characteristics, filler dispersion, interfacial bonding, resin content, and the electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, gas permeability, and corrosion resistance of GBPs are discussed. The effects of material composition, microstructure, and processing conditions on overall performance are analyzed. Trade-offs between electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, gas permeability, corrosion resistance, and processability are highlighted. Strategies for improving performance are summarized, including optimization of graphite raw materials, multiscale filler design, interfacial regulation, resin-content optimization, and improvements in molding processes.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61093-1
Advanced catalyst structures with good active site accessibility and strong metal-support interactions are crucial for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysis. A hierarchically porous Pt catalyst supported on honeycomb-like nitrogen-doped carbon (Pt/HNC-400, where 400 denotes the optimal dosage (mg) of the sacrificial SiO2 hard template used during synthesis) was fabricated by combining template-assisted pyrolysis and alcohol reduction. The fabrication involves the template-assisted pyrolysis of ZIF-67 (which provides the N-dopant through its 2-methylimidazole ligand) followed by HF etching to completely remove the SiO2, yielding a 3D interconnected porous carbon support. Compared to a commercial Pt/C, it had an exceptional ORR performance with a half-wave potential of 0.901 V (41 mV higher), a mass activity at 0.9 V that was 15.3 times higher, and significantly improved durability (a half-wave potential decay of 25 mV vs. 80 mV after 10,000 accelerated durability tests (ADTs)). Mechanistic investigations showed that this superior performance is due to the combined effects of the 3D porous structure, ultrafine Pt nanoparticles with strong metal-support interactions, and in-situ formed Co-Nx moieties from the pyrolysis of precursor ZIF-67. After 10,000 ADTs it was shown to have excellent structural integrity, retaining 87.4% of its initial electrochemically active surface area (102.7 m2 g−1). This study may assist the development of new high-performance ORR catalysts.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(25)60631-1
Methane dehydroaromatization (MDA) offers a carbon-neutral route to benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX), yet the regulatory mechanisms of Brønsted acid site (BAS) strength and spatial proximity to Mo sites remain unresolved. This study systematically tunes BAS strength via isomorphous substitution (Al, Ga, Fe, B) and Mo-BAS proximity in ZSM-5, integrating catalytic evaluations with density functional theory (DFT). Strongly acidic Al-zeolites achieve the highest methane conversion, while weakly acidic B-substituted systems exhibit optimal mono-/bifunctional synergy, outperforming moderate-acid counterparts. DFT reveals that deprotonation energy (DPE) correlates with acid strength; Al-ZSM-5 (DPE = -5.68 eV) lowers the C–H activation barrier (ΔG = 1.467 eV). Spatial proximity analysis shows that nanoscale Mo-BAS distances, achieved via ball milling, enhance methane conversion by 33% and BTX yield by 31% compared to micrometer-scale mixtures, by accelerating intermediate transport and suppressing coke. These findings establish a multi-scale framework linking acid strength, spatial confinement, and electronic modulation, providing actionable guidelines for designing next-generation MDA catalysts.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(25)60620-7
Direct coal liquefaction (DCL) diesel constitutes over 60% of DCL products, yet its cetane number (30–40) falls short of the automotive diesel standard (≥45). Rapid and accurate compositional analysis is essential for optimizing properties via component blending. Traditional gas chromatography offers high accuracy but is unsuitable for online industrial monitoring. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy enables rapid, non-destructive analysis, but spectral interpretation is complex. This study integrates NIR spectroscopy with machine learning (ML) to construct a spectral-composition database for DCL diesel. Feature extraction using correlation coefficient and mutual information methods screened key wavelength variables, reducing dimensionality from ~1800 to ~200 wavelengths. Three ML models—Lasso, SVR, and XGBoost—were compared. Excluding spectral data with absorbance >1 significantly improved model accuracy, increasing test set R² from 0.85 to 0.96. After feature extraction, the optimal variable count was 177, enhancing computational efficiency. Among models, SVR-MI-0.9 (mutual information feature selection) achieved the best performance, with training and test set R² values exceeding 0.98, enabling precise prediction of paraffin, naphthene, and aromatic contents. This research provides a robust methodology for intelligent online quality monitoring. An intelligent NIR spectroscopy data analysis software was independently developed based on the established model. Compared with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography, the software reduced analysis time by over 98%, with absolute prediction error below 0.2%. Thus, rapid analysis of DCL diesel components was successfully realized.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025091205
This study analyzes the spatiotemporal variation characteristics and driving mechanisms of PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, O3, and CO in the Kuytun-Dushanzi-Wusu (Kui-Du-Wu) region of Xinjiang, based on monitoring data from 2018 to 2024. Results indicate that urban sites (e.g., Kuytun Laoganju Station) are influenced by traffic emissions, leading to elevated PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations. Dushanzi District, with petrochemical industry emissions, exhibits notable SO2 and O3 pollution. Agricultural areas (e.g., Kuytun Huaxin Tomato Company) show significant PM10 and CO levels affected by dust and diesel machinery. Over the study period, PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and CO concentrations generally declined at annual rates of 1.5–4.0 μg·m−3·a−1, reflecting the effectiveness of coal substitution, industrial upgrades, and vehicle emission controls. Conversely, O3 concentrations increased consistently at rates of 1.3–3.2 μg·m−3·a−1, highlighting shortcomings in volatile organic compound (VOCs) control. Seasonal patterns show PM and CO peaking in winter due to heating combustion and temperature inversions, and reaching minima in summer due to enhanced diffusion and precipitation. O3 peaks in summer driven by photochemical reactions, contrasting with NO2 winter highs from heating and industrial activities. The findings underscore the need for coordinated control of VOCs and NOx, optimized dust management, and differentiated emission controls for industrial, traffic, and agricultural sources.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3734-7
Asymmetric catalysis, which directs a reaction preferentially toward one enantiomer over its non-superimposable mirror image, is crucial for synthesizing chiral molecules with defined stereochemistry. Such selectivity is indispensable in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced materials, where opposite enantiomers often display markedly different properties and functions. Conventional asymmetric catalysis primarily relies on molecular catalysts, yet these often suffer from stability, recovery, and reaction scope, while chiral inorganic catalysts have recently gained attention as robust alternatives capable of tolerating demanding conditions and offer new routes to stereocontrol. In this review, we propose a mechanism-based classification of chiral inorganic catalysts into six categories: chiral ligand-induced catalysis, spin-polarized catalysis through the chiral-induced spin selectivity effect, photoinduced asymmetric catalysis, chiral confinement-driven catalysis, nanozyme-like catalysis, and chiral lattice-induced catalysis. This review shifts the focus from material type to mechanistic origin, enabling a clearer connection between chirality and catalytic function. We suggest that mechanistic understanding will support the rational design of efficient, selective, and long-lasting chiral inorganic catalysts, and open new directions in asymmetric catalysis.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3829-7
Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) is pivotal for advanced photonic applications, yet achieving concurrent high emission efficiency and large dissymmetry factors remains challenging. Here, we report a chiral reticular chemistry strategy to construct homochiral porous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as efficient CPL-active materials. By co-assembling enantiopure R/S-binol with achiral luminescent ligands, three pairs of enantiomeric pillar-layered MOFs were synthesized. These frameworks exhibit significantly amplified CPL responses, with |g_lum| values enhanced by up to two orders of magnitude compared to free ligands, reaching levels comparable to state-of-the-art chiral assemblies, while maintaining high photoluminescence efficiencies (Φ_PL up to 67%). Mechanistic investigations reveal that CPL originates primarily from the global chirality of the hierarchical frameworks rather than the intrinsic chirality of the precursors. This work establishes a robust design principle for porous CPL-active materials, offering new insights into chirality transfer and opening avenues to integrate strong luminescence with stable chirality in extended frameworks.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3786-8
Conventional cancer diagnostic techniques, such as tissue sampling and microscopy, are invasive and prone to misdiagnosis, driving the need for non-invasive, precise alternatives. Chiral biophotonics, exploiting circularly polarized light (CPL), offers unique polarization-selective interactions with biological tissues, enabling higher imaging contrast and molecular-level discrimination. However, current CPL detection technologies are passive and single-mode, lacking dynamic tunability and parallel processing capabilities. Meanwhile, AI-assisted diagnostics rely on separated sensing and computing units, suffering from poor integration and transmission inefficiency. Here, we report a near-infrared (NIR) chiral organic synaptic photodiode with electrically tunable dual-mode operation, enabling simultaneous CPL detection and neuromorphic processing. Under negative bias, the device operates as a highly sensitive CPL detector for chiroptical signal acquisition. Under positive bias, it exhibits history-dependent synaptic behavior with photocurrent dissymmetry factor (g_ph) dynamically tunable up to -0.06. By integrating this device into an optical convolutional neural network (OCNN), we achieved intelligent cancer detection with CPL-based imaging. Experimental results demonstrate that CPL detection accuracy reaches 83%, approaching the theoretical 87%, significantly outperforming natural light detection at 65%. The device enhances image contrast and feature extraction, laying a foundation for intelligent, adaptive diagnostic systems.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3798-x
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colorectal mucosa, where conventional enema therapies suffer from poor retention and limited inflammation modulation. Here, we report a highly fluid probiotic-containing enema solution (s-BSA-Fe+EcN) integrating bovine serum albumin (BSA), Fe2+, and probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN). The solution's high fluidity enables comprehensive coverage of irregular colorectal mucosa. Upon encountering reactive oxygen species (ROS)-rich inflamed lesions, Fe2+ mediates H2O2 scavenging and hydroxyl radical generation, triggering BSA crosslinking and in situ gelation into a conformal hydrogel (h-BSA-Fe+EcN). This targeted adhesion mitigates oxidative damage to host tissues and preserves probiotic viability. In a porcine model, endoscopic imaging confirmed inflammation-targeted gelation in vivo. In a dextran sulfate sodium-induced mouse colitis model, h-BSA-Fe+EcN demonstrated excellent therapeutic efficacy, reducing disease activity index and restoring colonic architecture. This strategy addresses the dual challenges of fluid perfusion and rapid ROS-responsive gelation, offering an advanced transanal treatment for UC.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3814-2
Micro-structured surfaces have attracted increasing attention due to their great potential applications. However, it is still a challenge to continuously fabricate micro-structured surfaces based on thermoplastics by a facile, low-cost, and environmentally-friendly method. Herein, with the help of the extrusion molding method and an elaborately designed mold, micro-grooved fiber (MGF) based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is continuously prepared. Theoretically, infinitely long MGFs with feature sizes down to a few microns can be efficiently fabricated because of the continuous fabrication characteristic of the melt extrusion method. Interestingly, left- and right-handed micro-grooves with different helix angles can be produced by applying twisting at the die exit, and the macroscopically MGF springs can be further fabricated via a self-designed three-dimensional helical enwind device. By regulating wettability, MGF can achieve liquid self-transport on predefined paths. In addition, MGF fabric exhibits rapid evaporation behavior, whose evaporation rate is about 4 times higher than that of the Smooth fiber (SMF) fabric and 2 times higher than that of the most popular commercial quick-drying fabric (i.e., Cool-max fabric). This work proposes a facile and environmentally-friendly method for continuously preparing low-cost and flexible MGF, opening a new pathway to develop fiber-based microfluidic systems following the concept of "functionalized processing for thermoplastics".
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202509047
To reveal the dynamic characteristics of ecosystem carbon flux and its response to meteorological factors, this study employed the Biome-BGC model to simulate gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) of vegetation in Beijing for historical (2001–2014) and future (2051–2070) periods under SSP126 and SSP585 scenarios, using multi-source data including regional meteorology, vegetation type, and soil texture. The Mann-Kendall (M-K) test and Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis were applied to examine spatiotemporal patterns and carbon use efficiency (CUE). Results indicate that Biome-BGC accurately reproduces historical carbon flux characteristics. Temporally, annual mean GPP and NPP exhibited fluctuating upward trends, ranging from 584 to 777 g C m−2 a−1 and 238 to 388 g C m−2 a−1, respectively. Spatially, GPP and NPP displayed both same-phase and opposite-phase distribution patterns. Annual mean temperature was the dominant factor influencing GPP and NPP trends, followed by solar radiation and precipitation. Under future scenarios, both GPP and NPP are projected to increase, with SSP585 showing greater enhancement. By 2070, GPP is expected to rise by 171 and 376 g C m−2 a−1 under SSP126 and SSP585, respectively, while NPP increases by 71.8 and 137 g C m−2 a−1. The spatial distribution of GPP and NPP exhibits a 'low-center, high-periphery' pattern, with multi-year means of 969 and 425 g C m−2 a−1. Future CUE is approximately 0.45, indicating substantial carbon sequestration potential of Beijing's vegetation under climate change.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202509124
To reveal the spatiotemporal evolution and driving mechanisms of water quality in the Hanjiang River Basin, this study utilized monthly water quality monitoring data from 54 sections from January 2021 to April 2024. Methods including single-factor index, comprehensive water quality index (WQI), principal component analysis (PCA), and optimal parameters-based geographical detector (OPGD) were employed. Results indicated significant spatiotemporal differences, with total nitrogen (TN), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and permanganate index (CODMn) as major pollutants, TN being the most critical. Temporally, agricultural non-point source organic pollution dominated in wet season, while comprehensive organic pollution with industrial point source characteristics prevailed in dry season. Spatially, water quality deteriorated along the main stream, with tributary downstream areas showing severe pollution, forming a pattern of 'mountainous areas good, plains poor'. OPGD revealed combined effects of natural conditions and human activities, proposing a 'zonal control and targeted treatment' strategy.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(26)60649-4
To achieve efficient conversion of lignin-derived phenolic compounds into high-value hydrocarbon fuels, a series of NiCo bimetallic catalysts with N-doped biochar and Al2O3 composite supports (NiCo/NC-Al2O3) were designed and synthesized. Comprehensive characterizations (XRD, TEM, XPS, H2-TPD) revealed the superior catalytic activity in the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of lignin-derived phenolic compounds. The optimized Ni8Co2/NC-Al2O3 catalyst exhibited good metal dispersion and excellent hydrogen dissociation adsorption capacity. Under mild reaction conditions (240°C, 1 MPa H2, 4 h), it achieved complete conversion of guaiacol and 99.9% selectivity to cyclohexane, significantly outperforming monometallic Ni10/NC-Al2O3 and Co10/NC-Al2O3 catalysts. Comparative studies indicated a synergistic effect between Ni and Co, where the introduction of Co effectively promoted aromatic ring hydrogenation and C−O bond cleavage. The catalyst maintained high activity after four reuse cycles, demonstrating outstanding structural stability. This study elucidates the regulatory mechanism of the Ni-Co synergistic effect on catalytic performance, providing new insights for the development of efficient non-noble metal HDO catalysts.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(26)60654-8
The declining costs of renewable energy are progressively improving the economic viability of employing electrochemical techniques for carbon dioxide capture. Electrochemical carbon capture (ECC) technology utilizes electrical energy to drive electrode reactions, enabling the selective separation of CO2. The vigorous development of ECC powered by renewable energy offers a promising alternative route to conventional carbon capture methods, overcoming limitations associated with thermally driven capture and release cycles. This approach provides a promising alternative route that is more efficient, flexible, scalable, low-energy-consuming and low-polluting for traditional carbon capture technologies. This review begins by introducing established, large-scale carbon capture technologies, such as pre-combustion capture, post-combustion capture, oxy-fuel combustion, adsorption, membrane separation and the calcium looping process. It then transitions to several rapidly developing ECC technologies, including electrochemically mediated amine regeneration (EMAR), pH-swing-mediated systems, and methods involving redox-active molecules. The pH-swing systems are further categorized into bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED), proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET), and membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI). For each method, the underlying principles, technological advancements, advantages, as well as current problems and challenges, are systematically elucidated. It is anticipated that with the widespread deployment of green electricity and persistent innovation in electrochemical materials, ECC technology will emerge as a highly efficient and low-carbon strategy, contributing significantly to the global goal of achieving carbon neutrality.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025030403
Microplastics (MPs) act as vectors for co-migrating antibiotics and heavy metals, forming complex pollution systems with potential joint toxicity. However, the differential adsorption behaviors and underlying mechanisms of MPs toward organic versus inorganic pollutants remain insufficiently understood. This study selected polypropylene (PP) microplastics, a major component of agricultural plastic films, and investigated the adsorption of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and Cr(VI) onto aged PP under varying environmental conditions. Results demonstrated that aging increased the maximum adsorption capacity by 2–3 times for both pollutants. Notably, aged PP exhibited approximately 30 times higher adsorption capacity for SMX than for Cr(VI). Characterization revealed that aging introduced oxygen-containing functional groups (e.g., carbonyl) on the MP surface, enhancing adsorption. Mechanistic analysis indicated that hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions dominated SMX adsorption, while Cr(VI) adsorption was primarily governed by electrostatic interactions and pore-filling. The stronger intermolecular forces for SMX compared to reversible pore-filling for Cr(VI) explained the observed differences. Increasing pH induced electrostatic repulsion, reducing adsorption of both pollutants. High concentrations of Na+ and Mg2+ caused charge shielding, potentially enhancing Cr(VI) adsorption but inhibiting SMX adsorption due to competition for active sites. The presence of organic matter (humic acid) had negligible effects on Cr(VI) adsorption but reduced SMX adsorption, likely due to complexation. These findings elucidate distinct molecular-level pathways for organic versus inorganic pollutant adsorption on aged MPs, highlighting the roles of hydrogen bonding and pore-filling in driving differential behaviors.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025022502
The design of stable and efficient O3 catalysts is critical for advancing heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO) in industrial wastewater treatment. In this study, various iron-based bimetallic oxides were synthesized, and Fe-Co bimetallic oxide (FeCo-O) was identified as the optimal catalyst through degradation experiments and structural characterization. FeCo-O exhibits a single spinel structure with abundant metal valence states and synergistic effects between Fe and Co. Compared to conventional O3 oxidation, the FeCo-O/O3 system enhanced organic pollutant degradation by 2–3 times, demonstrating broad applicability under neutral or weakly acidic/alkaline conditions. Characterization revealed that FeCo-O promotes O3 activation via enhanced inter-metal electron transfer on the catalyst surface, increasing the generation of highly oxidative free radicals (·OH, ·O2−) and thereby improving pollutant degradation efficiency. In treating real industrial wastewater, the FeCo-O/O3 system achieved excellent COD removal, indicating its potential for both pre-treatment and advanced treatment applications. This study provides theoretical and practical guidance for designing efficient catalytic ozonation catalysts.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202606008
Resin-enhanced electrosorption for water treatment significantly improves ion adsorption efficiency and selectivity through synergistic effects, making it a research hotspot in the water treatment field. This technology provides an innovative solution to the bottlenecks of kinetic lag and insufficient selectivity by modulating electrode-solution interface behavior in multiple dimensions. Current technological advances include the following: a simple integration method enables desalination efficiency to exceed 92.3%; resin-coated composite electrodes eliminate the co-ion effect and achieve a 42% increase in total salt adsorption capacity; resin-derived porous carbon electrodes with tunable pore structures possess three to five times the adsorption capacity of commercially available activated carbon; and by enhancing solution convection and electrophoretic convection, the resin-filling strategy achieves a high desalination rate of (670 ± 20) mg/(L·h). Studies have demonstrated that different material combinations can achieve targeted optimization of adsorption performance based on specific water quality characteristics. Future research directions may focus on: developing intelligent resin materials with electromagnetic responsiveness; constructing a multi-scale structural design theory for resin-electrode systems; and establishing a cross-scale model integrating electrochemistry, fluid dynamics, and interface science for comprehensive analysis. In particular, in-depth studies are needed on the dynamic behavior of resin-based flow electrodes under electric/magnetic field regulation, as well as the precise construction of catalytic sites on the resin surface. This review aims to promote the widespread application and efficient practice of this technology in water treatment, providing a theoretical foundation and scientific basis for the future development of high-efficiency, selective, and stable electrosorption technologies.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3963-5
Metal additive manufacturing (MAM) enables integrated one-piece fabrication of parts, high material utilization efficiency, and unparalleled design freedom. However, problems such as low production efficiency, difficulties in ensuring quality stability and defect control limit the large-scale industrial application of AM. In-situ active modulation for AM enables dynamic regulation of parts during the fabrication process, thereby enhancing the quality of the final fabricated parts without introducing extra processing steps. In-situ active regulation enables direct intervention during defect nucleation, providing better effectiveness than post-printing repairs while avoiding performance degradation risks associated with post-processing. Based on the difference of core factors directly affected during regulation, in-situ active regulation is categorized into the following. (1) Process and path parameter optimization, where regulation directly impacts manufacturing-related procedural rules. It is the simplest method of control and the preferred approach, with widespread attention focused on its effects on microstructure and mechanical properties. (2) Laser beam shaping, where regulation directly influences the energy carrier morphology. To address issues such as edge over-melting and localized energy deficiency caused by non-uniform energy distribution, laser beam shaping should be employed. (3) Additional physical field modulation achieved by superimposing supplementary physical fields. When optimal process and path parameters still fail to obtain the desired microstructure and mechanical properties, additional physical field control may be considered. Meanwhile, this work summarized the effects of different additional physical fields on the mechanical properties of various metallic base materials. The future trends of in-situ modulation in additive manufacturing are also discussed.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3880-8
Formaldehyde oxidation reaction (FOR) demonstrates significant potential in energy conversion and chemical synthesis, yet developing catalysts for efficient operation at high current densities remains a challenge. Herein, we fabricated a Cu/Cu2O heterostructure nanowire catalyst on copper foam (Cu/Cu2O@CF) via interface engineering and investigated its FOR performance. Electrochemical tests show that Cu/Cu2O@CF exhibits excellent activity: it achieves 100 mA cm−2 at an ultra-low potential of −0.05 V (vs. RHE), outperforming most reported catalysts. Notably, this catalyst overcomes the deactivation limitation of conventional Cu-based catalysts above 0.5 V, maintaining a current density of 735 mA cm−2 at 0.6 V with excellent stability during long-term electrolysis. SCN−-induced Cu0 poisoning experiments confirm that Cu/Cu2O@CF retains a Cu/Cu2O mixed structure at 0.6 V, where Cu0-Cu+ synergy dominates its high activity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal two key advantages of this structure: it weakens OH− adsorption to avoid active site occupation, and reduces C–H bond cleavage barriers while promoting H* combination into H2. Product analysis shows Faradaic efficiencies for formate and H2 production are both ~100%. When coupled with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the system's hydrogen production energy consumption is as low as 0.57 kWh m−3 H2, much lower than traditional water electrolysis. This work elucidates the regulatory mechanism of interface engineering on the FOR performance of Cu-based catalysts, expands the application of Cu-based heterostructures in high-current FOR, and guides the development of industrial-grade electrocatalysts.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3862-x
Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is indispensable for next-generation electronics and quantum technologies, yet controlled synthesis of isotopically engineered hBN with macroscopic scalability and atomic-level precision remains challenging. Here, we present a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method using elemental boron (B) and nitrogen (N) precursors to achieve wafer-scale growth and precise isotopic control of hBN films. High-quality hBN films are synthesized on Cu substrates via optimized B evaporation and N2 plasma activation. The growth mechanism involves an oxygen-mediated pathway for B transport and a layer-by-layer (Frank-van der Merwe) mode for multilayer formation. By employing isotopically enriched B powders (10B and 11B) and N2 gases (14N2 and 15N2), we demonstrate tunable isotopic compositions with phonon mode shifts quantitatively matching harmonic oscillator predictions. Furthermore, we realize unprecedented in-plane h10BN-h11BN heterostructures through dynamic B source switching during growth. This PECVD strategy establishes a transformative synthesis platform merging industrial-scale production capacity with atomic-scale isotopic precision, enabling new opportunities to engineer thermal transport, optical response, and quantum coherence in two-dimensional materials.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.3724/2097-213X.2025.JFCT.0037
Alumina microspheres with a lamellar-assembled flower-like morphology were synthesized via a urea-assisted hydrothermal method and used as supports to prepare Pd/Al2O3-M catalysts by incipient wetness impregnation. The catalytic performance was evaluated in the selective hydrogenation of isoprene and the hydrogenation of 2-ethylanthraquinone for hydrogen peroxide production, and compared with a commercial alumina-supported Pd catalyst (Pd/Al2O3). Characterization revealed that the flower-like structure, composed of stacked nanosheets, promoted high Pd dispersion and enhanced metal-support interaction, leading to a higher surface Pd content and more abundant active sites. Under 60 °C and 1 MPa H2, Pd/Al2O3-M achieved 95.2% conversion of isoprene with 98.3% total selectivity to isoamylenes, and exhibited good stability over 24 h. In anthraquinone hydrogenation, it reached a hydrogenation efficiency of 15.8 g/L, a 27.4% improvement over Pd/Al2O3 (12.4 g/L). The study demonstrates that modulating carrier morphology is an effective strategy to simultaneously enhance activity, selectivity, and stability of Pd catalysts, offering a promising approach for designing efficient hydrogenation catalysts.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025031901
The rapid expansion of the nuclear power industry has increased the demand for effective nuclear wastewater treatment, making the efficient removal of radioactive iodine isotopes (e.g., 131I, 129I) from aqueous environments a critical challenge. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), a class of crystalline porous materials characterized by high specific surface area, tunable pore structures, and exceptional stability, exhibit significant potential for capturing radioactive iodine from water. This review systematically examines the adsorption mechanisms of iodine by COF materials, including electrostatic interactions, charge transfer, hydrogen bonding, and secondary mechanisms such as metal coordination, ion exchange, and van der Waals forces. The effects of COF pore structures on iodine removal efficacy are discussed with a focus on pore size and functional group modifications. Key research trends and prevailing challenges in the application of COFs for aqueous iodine capture are analyzed, including the need for selective adsorption in complex wastewater matrices and the scalability of COF synthesis. The review concludes with a perspective on future research directions, emphasizing the design of novel COFs with tailored pore chemistry and the development of cost-effective, regenerable adsorbents for practical deployment in nuclear wastewater treatment.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2026030202
High nitrogen (N) inputs, low N use efficiency, and substantial greenhouse gas emissions constrain sustainable double-cropping rice production in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. To evaluate whether humic acid urea (HAU) can reconcile yield stability with N reduction and carbon mitigation, a field experiment was conducted in a double-cropping rice system. Five treatments were established: conventional urea at the recommended N rate (U), HAU at the recommended N rate (HAU), conventional urea with a 20% reduction in N input (U-20), HAU with a 20% reduction in N input (HAU-20), and a no-N control (CK). Rice yield, N uptake and utilization, and the full life-cycle carbon footprint were quantified. Results showed that HAU significantly increased double-cropping rice yield by 6.46% (early rice) and 8.76% (late rice) compared to U (P < 0.05). HAU-20 maintained yield equivalent to U, while U-20 significantly reduced yield. HAU-20 significantly improved nitrogen fertilizer apparent utilization rate, agronomic efficiency, and partial factor productivity. Specifically, apparent utilization rate increased by 9.24 percentage points (early rice) and 7.80 percentage points (late rice); agronomic efficiency increased by 18.51% and 26.69%, and partial factor productivity by 22.79% and 25.58% for early and late rice, respectively (P < 0.05). Life-cycle carbon footprint was significantly reduced by 26.25% (early rice) and 40.38% (late rice) under HAU-20 compared to U, with per-unit product carbon footprint reduced by 0.22 t CO2-eq·t−1 and 0.86 t CO2-eq·t−1, respectively. The reduction was primarily attributed to decreased CH4 and N2O emissions: early rice CH4 and N2O cumulative emissions decreased by 28.92% and 44.34%, and late rice by 44.46% and 63.85% (P < 0.05). In conclusion, HAU with 20% N reduction sustains yield, enhances N use efficiency, and significantly lowers carbon footprint, offering a viable path for green and low-carbon double-cropping rice production.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202607010
The impact of low concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) on anaerobic fermentation of waste activated sludge (WAS) remains poorly understood. This study applied three PFOS levels (0.5, 1.0, and 4.5 μg/g TSS) to systematically evaluate effects on organic matter solubilization and nitrogen/phosphorus transformations. Monitoring of soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD), soluble protein, polysaccharides, NH4+-N, PO43--P, and three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix (3D-EEM) fluorescence revealed that PFOS significantly enhanced release of SCOD, protein, and polysaccharides. At 45 °C after 14 days with 4.5 μg/g TSS, SCOD peaked approximately 28% higher than control, indicating increased biodegradable organic matter accumulation. NH4+-N concentrations rose overall with fluctuations, while PO43--P release was inhibited, suggesting interference with nutrient transformation pathways. 3D-EEM analysis showed strengthened signals of aromatic proteins and microbial by-products, confirming matrix solubilization. These findings demonstrate a dual effect of low-level PFOS: initial promotion of organic matter release followed by potential inhibition of nutrient transformation. This study provides data support for understanding PFOS environmental behavior in anaerobic digestion and informs sludge resource utilization and risk assessment of emerging contaminants.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202607025
The Holocene alluvial-diluvial stratum of the Quaternary is characterized by high soil hydraulic conductivity and intense surface water-groundwater interaction, which leads to rapid and extensive migration of contaminants from landfills. To investigate the contaminant characteristics of a municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill in such strata, a case study was conducted at a landfill in southwestern China. Methods including the Nemerow pollution index and the potential ecological risk index were employed to systematically analyze the contamination of groundwater and soil, as well as the spatial distribution of organic matter and heavy metals. The results showed that the groundwater was severely contaminated (PI > 3). The maximum exceedance multiples for total bacterial count, ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), and total coliforms relative to the standard limits were 36, 9.5, and 8, respectively. The composition of the contaminants in groundwater was highly consistent with the characteristics of landfill leachate. For the soil, the concentrations of six heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Cd, Ni, Hg, and As) were all below the Class II screening values of the standard GB 36600—2018. Both the Nemerow pollution index (PI < 0.7) and the potential ecological risk index (RI < 150) indicated that the soil environment was safe. Regarding soil dissolved organic matter (DOM), humic-like substances (22.9% to 34.9%) and fulvic-like substances (22.4% to 27.5%) were the dominant components, and their fluorescence intensities exhibited an exponential decay trend with increasing soil depth. The speciation of Cu, Pb, As, Hg, and Ni was dominated by the residual fraction (52.33% to 90.32%). However, over 70% of Cd existed in active forms (exchangeable + Fe/Mn oxide-bound), suggesting a high migration risk. The horizontal distribution of heavy metals showed regional specificity, with high-value areas mainly concentrated in the screening waste and soil stacking areas. Vertically, Cu and Cd exhibited surface enrichment, while As, Hg, Pb, and Ni were enriched in the groundwater fluctuation zone. These findings indicate that groundwater in alluvial-diluvial strata is highly susceptible to leachate contamination, while soil heavy metal contamination is not significant, with low levels in the aquifer but a tendency to accumulate at the water-soil interface. It is recommended that during landfill remediation, attention be paid to anti-seepage measures in waste excavation and stacking areas, as well as the interception and remediation of the groundwater fluctuation zone, to prevent secondary contamination of soil and groundwater.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3990-6
Sustainable bio-sourced functional materials are pivotal for advancing wastewater treatment technologies. This study reports a lignin-based carbon nanofiber (CNF) scaffold engineered with a Bi2WO6 (BWO) and ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) Z-scheme heterojunction via coaxial electrospinning and hydrothermal synthesis. The resulting all-component photocatalytic nanomembrane exhibits superior mechanical robustness under wet conditions, with a Young's modulus of 20.38 MPa and toughness of 2.48 kJ/m3. Stabilization kinetics are accelerated 10-fold (1°C/min), yielding significant energy savings. Using methylene blue (MB) as a model pollutant, the CNFs@BWO/ZIS membrane achieves 94.4% degradation efficiency (k = 0.01664 min−1) after 120 min of solar irradiation, maintaining excellent recyclability over five successive cycles. Systematic mechanistic studies elucidate the Z-scheme charge-transfer pathway, which optimizes interfacial photoexcited carrier separation and reduces energy loss. This work demonstrates a sustainable biomass-derived photocatalytic system with high mechanical integrity and catalytic performance, offering a viable route for efficient wastewater treatment and contributing to carbon neutrality goals.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3922-2
Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to syngas (CO and H2) is pivotal for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis and carbon neutrality, yet suffers from rapid charge carrier recombination. Here, we report a solvent-induced defect engineering strategy to fabricate nitrogen vacancy (Nv)-modified Fe3O4 (Fe3O4-Nv-12h). Under visible light (λ ≥ 420 nm), Fe3O4-Nv-12h achieves a total syngas production rate of 43.55 mmol g−1 h−1 with a near 1:1 CO/H2 ratio, representing an 805.2-fold enhancement over pristine Fe3O4 and surpassing state-of-the-art systems. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirm that Nv introduction modulates the electronic structure, acting as electron traps to suppress recombination and enhance charge transport. In situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identifies *COOH and *CO as key intermediates for CO formation. This work establishes an effective nitrogen vacancy modification strategy for efficient photocatalytic CO2 conversion to syngas, offering new avenues for high-performance catalyst design.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4011-7
Biomass-derived room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) carbon dots (CDs) hold great promise for anti-counterfeiting and information encryption. However, achieving solid-state matrix-free long-lived CDs with time-dependent phosphorescence colors (TDPC) remains challenging due to aggregation-induced quenching. Here, solid-state matrix-free RTP phosphorus-doped CDs (P-CDs) are developed via one-step hydrothermal treatment of feather powder and phytic acid. The resulting P-CDs powder exhibits bright blue fluorescence under UV illumination and unprecedented TDPC shifting from yellow to green after UV removal, with afterglow lasting 12 s (average lifetime 1.15 s). Enhanced RTP is attributed to increased triplet-state excitons via spin-orbit coupling induced by P-doping. A dual-mode luminescent ink formulated by combining P-CDs with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is successfully applied to commercial A4 paper, showing pronounced TDPC (light-yellow to green) with improved RTP lifetime (1.31 s) after ceasing UV irradiation. The P-CDs/PVA ink demonstrates excellent anti-counterfeiting and information encryption capabilities, outstanding luminescent durability, and broad practicability on cellulosic substrates including fabric and paper. These findings provide a strategy for exploiting matrix-free solid-state RTP P-CDs with distinctive TDPC properties and offer a sustainable route to converting feather wastes into high-value materials.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202511055
To systematically investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of hydrodynamics and water quality under cascaded hydropower development in the upper Heihe River, a MIKE21-based water environment model was constructed for the mountainous reach. The model simulated the dynamic changes of total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) from January to August 2023. Calibration and validation against field data showed good performance: the hydrodynamic model achieved a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.89 and a mean relative error (MRE) of 11.3%; the water quality model achieved an average R2 of 0.86 and an average MRE of 14.21%. Hydrodynamic simulations revealed average flow velocities of 1.78, 0.72, and 0.36 m·s−1 during wet, normal, and dry periods, respectively. Natural river sections exhibited high velocities up to 4.3 m·s−1, while reservoir sections had near-stagnant flow due to hydraulic structures. Water quality simulations indicated that TN and NH3-N concentrations were higher in dry and normal periods, whereas TP was higher in the wet period. Spatially, concentrations in reservoir sections exceeded those in natural sections: natural sections had TP, TN, and NH3-N concentrations of 0.07–0.10, 0.25–0.50, and 0.025–0.250 mg·L−1, respectively, while reservoir sections had 0.12–0.17, 0.60–0.80, and 0.10–0.45 mg·L−1. These findings provide scientific references for water environment management in the Heihe River and similar inland river basins.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202512025
Persulfate (PS) is a common oxidant in in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) for groundwater organic contamination, but its vertical concentration stratification may lead to inefficient remediation of light non-aqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs). To investigate the vertical stratification characteristics of PS in porous aquifers and its impact on LNAPLs remediation, static water column experiments and flowing water sand tank experiments were conducted. The migration behavior of PS under non-slow-release and slow-release conditions was compared, with Br− as a reference tracer and benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) as LNAPLs contaminants. Results showed that in static water columns, Br− exhibited weak vertical migration, short migration distance, and a low decay rate (0.009 d−1), consistent with a stable tracer. In contrast, PS showed strong vertical migration, with concentrations increasing with depth; under slow-release conditions, the concentration difference between the top and bottom of the column could reach two orders of magnitude. Br− migration was dominated by molecular diffusion (effective diffusion coefficient 2.2×10−9 m2·s−1), while PS migration was driven by both diffusion and density. Under slow-release conditions, the average PS decay rate was 0.072 d−1, slightly higher than the non-slow-release rate (0.059 d−1). In both column and sand tank experiments, BTX exhibited a distinct shallow-layer distribution, contrasting with PS. When the aquifer thickness is large, PS stratification limits its contact with LNAPLs contaminants, increasing remediation cost and difficulty. These findings provide theoretical reference for PS-based ISCO remediation of LNAPLs in porous aquifers.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025041904
Non-fentanyl opioids, a subclass of new synthetic opioids (NSOs), have emerged as the fastest-growing category of new psychoactive substances (NPS) globally, driven by regulatory tightening on fentanyl analogs. Their structural diversity, rapid in vivo metabolism, and multiple metabolic pathways complicate detection in biological matrices, posing significant challenges for forensic toxicology and environmental monitoring. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) remains the gold standard for trace-level quantification due to its high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. This review systematically examines the classification, toxicological profiles, and metabolic routes of non-fentanyl opioids, including AH-7921, MT-45, U-47700, brorphine, and nitazenes. It critically evaluates sample preparation techniques—solid-phase extraction (SPE), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), and protein precipitation (PPT)—highlighting their efficiency, recovery rates, and matrix effects. Furthermore, it synthesizes recent advances in LC-MS methodologies, including high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), with emphasis on multiplex detection capabilities, limits of detection (LODs) reaching sub-ng/mL levels, and validation parameters. The review underscores the necessity for continuous analytical innovation to keep pace with emerging NSOs and provides a technical framework for accurate identification in forensic and environmental contexts.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025042703
This study investigated phosphorus (P) exchange at the sediment-water interface and its microbial driving mechanisms in aquaculture ponds of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). Using diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT), labile P concentrations in the upper sediment were significantly higher than in overlying water from late July to mid-August and in October, indicating sediment acts as a P source during these periods. The duration of aquaculture was a key factor; P diffusion flux declined from late July to mid-August and further decreased by October. Analyses of labile Fe, P-Fe correlations, and bacterial community composition and function suggested that dissimilatory Fe(III) reduction mediated by Fe-reducing bacteria and chemical Fe(III) reduction driven by sulfate-reducing bacteria metabolites were important mechanisms for P release. Additionally, bacterial-driven organic P mineralization and inorganic P dissolution contributed. The results indicate a high risk of P release from sediment to overlying water from late July to mid-August, potentially significantly affecting water P concentrations. Therefore, controlling sediment P release during this period is crucial.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025042504
This study investigated the effect of co-aging with common cations/anions and humic acid (HA) on the combined use of Vallisneria natans (VN) and lanthanum-modified bentonite (LMB) for controlling phosphorus (P) release from sediment. Results showed that co-aging significantly reduced the phosphate adsorption capacity of LMB, with the maximum unit adsorption capacity decreasing by 33.8% compared to the unaged material. Under the combined application of VN and unaged LMB, P in sediment could still be released into pore water via dissimilatory iron(III) reduction mediated by iron-reducing bacteria and chemical reduction of iron(III) induced by sulfate-reducing bacteria metabolites, subsequently migrating to overlying water. However, the combined treatment effectively inhibited P release, achieving an average reduction efficiency of 57.1% for dissolved reactive phosphorus (SRP) in overlying water and 74.0% for labile P in sediment (measured by DGT) at an LMB dosage of 89 g·m−2. Co-aging with common ions and HA diminished the P control efficiency of the combined treatment, primarily due to reduced phosphate adsorption capacity of LMB. Therefore, mitigating the negative effects of co-aging is crucial for enhancing the long-term P control performance of the VN-LMB combined technology.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202608013
Eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms threaten aquatic ecosystems and drinking water safety globally. This study evaluated the efficacy of a compound algicide (PQGA-126, PAC, and red soil) combined with submerged plants (Vallisneria natans and Hydrilla verticillata) for suppressing blooms and restoring eutrophic water. Indoor static experiments used algae-laden water from Nanhu Lake, Gongqingcheng, Jiangxi. Six treatments were established: control, V. natans alone, H. verticillata alone, algicide alone, algicide + V. natans, and algicide + H. verticillata. Results demonstrated that combined treatments significantly reduced total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), and turbidity, markedly lowering eutrophication within a short period. The combined approach outperformed single-plant treatments, with algicide + V. natans achieving the greatest reduction in the comprehensive trophic state index. Additionally, the algicide significantly enhanced V. natans growth rate and H. verticillata catalase (CAT) activity, indicating species-specific physiological responses. These findings suggest that integrating compound algicide with submerged plants, particularly V. natans, offers a promising strategy for rapid and effective eutrophic water remediation.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4063-2
Quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) are emerging as a leader in next-generation display technology. In principle, the efficiency of QLEDs is highly reliant on the radiative recombination rate of injected electrons and holes in the QD emissive layer. Within a solitary light-emitting cycle, a pre-negative-charged QD bursts into a fleeting sparkle upon encountering a hole, much like a lighted piston within a roaring engine. More pistons bring higher horsepower. The challenge of achieving highly efficient QLED lies in how to increase the number of pre-negatively charged QDs. To address these limitations, we developed a ZnO@ZnMgO core-shell nanoparticle (NP)-based electron transport layer (ETL). This design synergistically combines the high conductivity of ZnO core and the low defect density of the ZnMgO shell. Measured by electron-excited transient absorption, the average electron population (<N_e>) in the emissive layer for ZnO@ZnMgO and ZnMgO-based QLEDs was 0.61 and 0.33 at 4 V, respectively, which greatly increases the carrier recombination efficiency. As a result, green QLEDs achieve a peak EQE of 30.66%, maximum luminance of 1,615,039.85 cd/m2, and a low turn-on voltage of approximately 2 V. The T95 operational lifetime exceeded 29,000 h at 1,000 cd/m2. Currently, all parameters are at the top level within the QLED region.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4032-x
This study introduces a dual-compatibility third component as an interfacial modifier to precisely regulate the active layer morphology of bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (BHJ-OSCs). This approach successfully suppresses excessive phase separation, significantly enhancing the performance of thick-film devices. The interface-styling strategy enhances donor–acceptor interactions, optimizes vertical phase separation morphology, extends exciton diffusion length, improves exciton dissociation efficiency, facilitates efficient charge transport, and effectively suppresses trap-assisted recombination. The ternary device based on PM6:PCN3:PY-IT achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.41%, which was much higher than that of the PM6:PY-IT binary system (18.67%). The device maintains excellent performance at an active layer thickness of 200 nm, achieving a high PCE of 18.25%. This study demonstrates the significance of using dually compatible molecules for interface modification in all-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs), providing theoretical guidance for the fabrication of high-performance thick-film devices.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3974-1
MAB-phase-derived compounds exhibit promising electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption properties due to their unique layered structure and desirable physicochemical characteristics. Among them, Cr2AlB2 is particularly attractive owing to its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. However, conventional synthesis of Cr2AlB2 requires inert gas protection to prevent oxidation, significantly increasing production costs and limiting its application in EMW absorption. To overcome this bottleneck, we report the successful synthesis of high-purity Cr2AlB2 in ambient air using the molten salt shielded synthesis (MS3) method. This approach not only isolates the material from oxygen interference but also reduces the synthesis temperature, offering a cost-effective and scalable route. The as-synthesized Cr2AlB2 exhibits outstanding EMW absorption performance: a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of -42.10 dB at 12.6 GHz and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) of 3.44 GHz at a thickness of 1.9 mm. This work not only facilitates the large-scale production of Cr2AlB2 but also provides critical insights into its practical application as a high-performance EMW absorber.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4018-6
The pursuit of advanced wear-resistant materials for cryogenic applications is often hindered by a fundamental trade-off between enhancing strength and damage tolerance. CoCrNi-based medium-entropy alloys (MEAs), while excellent in cryogenic toughness, suffer from this very limitation. Although second-phase reinforcement boosts strength, the strain incompatibility between phases inevitably triggers cracking, which is severely exacerbated at low temperatures. This work introduces a novel microstructural design strategy based on regulated partial recrystallization to overcome this long-standing challenge. By tailoring the thermomechanical processing of a (CoCrNi)90Mo10 MEA, we engineered a unique architecture where a fully recrystallized FCC phase is homogeneously embedded within a continuous skeleton of a hard, non-recrystallized σ phase. The alloy with this optimized microstructure achieved a remarkably low wear rate at 113 K that is less than half of its as-cast and fully recrystallized counterparts. The experimental and modeling results indicate the underlying synergy: the σ skeleton provides robust structural support and distributes stress deeply, while the recrystallized FCC phase, with its high density of grain boundaries and annealing twins, acts as a compliant strain-accommodating medium, effectively suppressing interfacial cracking. This combined 'skeleton effect' and 'recrystallization effect' not only delivers exceptional cryogenic wear resistance but also offers a practical strategy for designing high-performance, crack-resistant dual-phase composites for extreme environments.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4017-y
Lattice distortion via entropy engineering can significantly optimize thermoelectric performance by intensifying phonon scattering. However, excessive lattice distortion in high-entropy materials inevitably hinders carrier transport, limiting the wide-temperature average ZT (ZTave). To enhance the wide-temperature thermoelectric performance of low-cost PbS-based compounds, this work introduces moderate lattice distortion by controlling entropy around 1.0R (R is the gas constant) to balance phonon and carrier transport, alleviating restrictions on carrier mobility. Substantial Se and Te alloying in PbS induces rock-salt lattice distortion, effectively impeding phonon propagation, thus suppressing lattice thermal conductivity (κlat) from 2.41 W m−1 K−1 in PbS to 0.66 W m−1 K−1 in PbS0.5Se0.35Te0.15 at 300 K. Additionally, Cu interstitials are introduced into the lattice-distorted PbS0.5Se0.35Te0.15 to further optimize carrier density and weighted carrier mobility (μW), leading to significant improvement in μW/κlat parameter at 300–773 K. Finally, a room-temperature ZT of 0.53 and a maximum ZT of 1.44 are obtained in PbS0.5Se0.35Te0.15-1%Cu sample, contributing to an impressive ZTave of 1.08 at 300–773 K and a maximum power generation efficiency (ηmax) of 7.5%. The results outperform previously reported cost-effective PbS-based compounds and highlight the importance of lattice distortion regulation in enhancing wide-temperature thermoelectric performance.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4056-1
Nanoparticle-based therapeutics have been intensively explored for tumor treatment. However, developing convenient and specific strategies that do not rely on exogenous energy-guided activation remains challenging. Herein, an ion-exchange-driven chemodynamic therapy is proposed based on the TME K+-mediated cation exchangeability of layered ferrous silicates (LFSs). LFSs were prepared by a facile "in situ 3D-to-2D structural transformation" strategy through valence bond transition from SiO–H–OSi to Fe–O, providing extensive convenience compared to conventional exfoliation methods. The structure-activity relationship and mechanism between surrounding TME ions and the cation exchange behavior of LFSs were revealed by both experimental investigation of the cation-exchange process and DFT calculations of the adsorption hydration behavior. As a result, the interlayered Fe ions were selectively and preferentially exchanged by TME K+ rather than surrounding TME Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, or Cl−, thereafter activating specific Fenton reaction together with TME H+, H2O2, and glutathione, demonstrating highly precise catalytic therapeutic efficacy both in vitro and in vivo. This study proposes an original tumor-specific therapy modality with high precision and safety through taking advantage of ionic exchangeability of layered silicate, and provides enlightenment to reverse the TME K+ disorder.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4031-6
Organic fluorophores operating in the second near-infrared (NIR-II, 1000–1700 nm) window are highly attractive for cancer phototheranostics. Yet, the advancement of aza-BODIPY-based NIR-II dyes remains challenging due to their limited spectral tunability and diminished fluorescence quantum yields (FLQY) under physiological conditions. Herein, we propose a rational donor-acceptor (D-A) molecular engineering strategy to construct an aza-BODIPY fluorophore, TPACN, featuring intramolecular charge transfer (ICT)-enhanced NIR-II emission and balanced photothermal performance. By introducing electron-rich triphenylamine (TPA) donors and peripheral cyano (–CN) acceptors, the optimized D-A coupling significantly strengthened the ICT effect, leading to broadened NIR absorption, a markedly red-shifted fluorescence peak at 1086 nm, and an exceptional fluorescence quantum yield of 1.55% in dichloromethane (DCM). When encapsulated in F127, TPACN nanoparticles (TPACN NPs) maintained a high aqueous FLQY of 0.20%, accompanied by a notable photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) of 39% under 808 nm irradiation. The sterically twisted TPA units effectively alleviated aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) and fine-tuned the excited-state energy dissipation pathways, realizing a synergistic balance between radiative (fluorescence) and non-radiative (heat) relaxation. Benefiting from these optimized photophysical properties, TPACN NPs achieved high-resolution NIR-I photoacoustic and NIR-II fluorescence dual-modal imaging, enabling accurate tumor visualization and efficient photothermal ablation in vivo. This work introduces a general design paradigm that exploits ICT modulation and steric engineering to overcome the intrinsic fluorescence bottleneck of aza-BODIPY systems, offering new molecular insights for the advancement of high-performance NIR-II dyes for precision phototheranostics.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4143-9
High-Ni (Ni ≥ 0.9) layered cathodes are being developed to endure high-voltage operations above 4.5 V to boost energy density. However, they face exacerbated chemo-mechanical and electrochemical degradation under high-voltage operation, primarily due to excessive lattice strain and phase distortion during cycling. Here, we engineer a high-Ni, Co-free cathode featuring a multicomponent complex doping-modulated bulk structure, coupled with surface modification via a multifunctional atomic layer deposition-coated LiAlO2 layer. Such a unique framework achieved by surface-to-bulk integrated modification can not only greatly prevent lattice stress-induced mechanical degradation but also effectively mitigate the accumulation of by-products due to surface side-reactions. Moreover, the LiAlO2 nanoshell with exceptional ion conductivity markedly enhances the sur-/interfacial Li-ion migration kinetics, thus rendering low electron/ion-diffusion resistance. The developed cathode breaks through existing voltage constraints without compromising on performance, achieving an exceptional balance between capacity and cycle stability during operation at 4.8 V. Notably, the pouch-type cells utilizing graphite and Li metal anodes demonstrate excellent cyclability under demanding conditions, even operating at high charging cut-off voltages of 4.5 and 4.6 V, respectively.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-4129-y
Therapeutic biosynthesis is a promising strategy for precision cancer therapy, yet achieving controlled synthesis of abiotic materials within tumors remains challenging. Here, we report a “dual lock-and-key” system for tumor-specific intracellular synthesis. The precursor, termed “dual-lock,” is activated by two endogenously overexpressed enzymes—azoreductase (AzoR) and nitroreductase (NTR)—acting as “dual keys” in target cancer cells. This activation triggers a condensation reaction that produces fibrous mesh covalent organic polymers (Fm-COPs) in situ. Synthesized Fm-COPs effectively disrupt the cytoskeleton, inhibiting cell migration and invasion while inducing apoptosis. In vivo studies demonstrate that this strategy achieves specific tumor enrichment and deep penetration, leading to significant tumor growth inhibition (tumor inhibition rate >70%) without systemic toxicity, as evidenced by stable body weights and normal histopathology. The dual enzyme-responsive mechanism ensures high selectivity, and the small-molecule precursors facilitate efficient tumor penetration. This work presents a next-generation approach for high-precision cancer therapy, offering a biocompatible and autonomous strategy for intracellular synthesis.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4147-9
Fiber-shaped zinc-air batteries (FZABs) with aqueous electrolytes combine intrinsic safety, high energy density (1086 Wh kg−1), and environmental compatibility, making them attractive for wearable applications. However, free water in the electrolyte induces severe anode degradation while being a critical reactant for cathode redox, presenting a dilemma between anode stability and cathode functionality. The semi-open structure of FZABs allows airborne water to permeate and migrate to the anode, causing interfacial instability, while high surface area accelerates solvent evaporation, leading to increased internal resistance and salt crystallization. Consequently, typical cycle life is limited to <50 h. To overcome these challenges, we report a polymer electrolyte that captures atmospheric water as a solvent through the semi-open structure, achieved by introducing acetamide (AA), identified via unsupervised clustering algorithms, into the poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene)/zinc trifluoromethanesulfonate (PVDF-HFP/Zn(OTf)2) system. AA incorporation preserves solvent-retention capability while reconstructing the Zn2+ coordination structure, promoting salt dissociation and polymer-segment mobility. Low adsorption energy of AA on zinc surfaces suppresses parasitic reactions from ambient moisture, and preferential adsorption across zinc crystal planes directs Zn2+ deposition along the (002) face, leading to uniform plating morphology. The exogenous aqueous polymer electrolyte exhibits superior mechanical properties, enabling stable output even after compression by a 1.7-t vehicle. As proof-of-concept, FZABs integrated with fiber solar cells and sensors in clothing enabled real-time health monitoring and sustainable energy utilization, demonstrating promising practical applications.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3548-9
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is constrained by the absence of tumor selectivity in conventional photosensitizers (PSs), which produces phototoxicity in normal tissues and risks activation by ambient light. Covalent conjugation of PSs to targeting peptides improves accumulation but does not suppress off-target activation. This work reports B-HCPP-RGD, a single-molecule PS that integrates αVβ3 integrin targeting with dual responsiveness to H2O2 and cathepsin B. The hypocrellin-derived type I PS HCEA is masked by a 4-(bromomethyl)phenylboronic acid pinacol ester H2O2-responsive group and conjugated to cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (cRGD) through a cathepsin B-cleavable Gln-Val dipeptide linker. ROS generation in solution is effectively suppressed until both H2O2 and cathepsin B are present, at which point HCEA is released. In vitro, B-HCPP-RGD shows negligible phototoxicity toward normal cells and pronounced phototoxicity toward tumor cells, including under hypoxic conditions. In vivo, the conjugate actively targets tumor tissue and achieves a high tumor inhibition rate with favorable biosafety. The results establish a modular design for dual-responsive, tumor-targeted PSs that improves the precision and safety of PDT.