SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4371-6
The sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) necessitates platinum-based catalysts, but their high cost and scarcity drive the search for platinum-group metal-free (PGM-free) alternatives. Fe−N−C catalysts with atomically dispersed Fe−N4 sites are promising, yet their practical performance is limited by buried active sites and poor mass transport. Here, a crumpled, multi-scale porous Fe−N−C catalyst (Fe−N−PCG) is synthesized via spray pyrolysis coupled with high-temperature metal etching. The crumpled morphology, formed by capillary compression during rapid solvent evaporation, and in-plane mesopores from Fe nanoparticle etching, synergistically enhance site accessibility and mass transport. Fe−N−PCG achieves a site density (SD) of 2.74×10^19 sites g−1 and Fe utilization (UFe) of 51.7%. As a gas diffusion electrode, it delivers a mass transport overpotential (ηmt) of 67 mV at 800 mA cm−2. In zinc-air batteries, Fe−N−PCG exhibits a peak power density of 296.1 mW cm−2 at 500 mA cm−2, outperforming Pt/C (241 mW cm−2 at 438 mA cm−2). At 50 mA cm−2, it delivers a discharge voltage of 1.19 V and a specific capacity of 815 mAh g−1, surpassing Pt/C (1.13 V, 715 mAh g−1). These results demonstrate that morphology and porosity engineering can concurrently optimize intrinsic activity, site utilization, and mass transport, offering a rational design strategy for high-performance PGM-free catalysts.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4358-y
Oxygen electrocatalysis underpins the viability of proton-exchange-membrane water electrolyzers and rechargeable Zn–air batteries, yet commercial deployment remains constrained by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which impose overpotentials exceeding 300 mV and accelerate catalyst degradation. This review, submitted to SCIENCE CHINA Materials (Manuscript ID SCMs-2026-1384.R1), synthesizes recent advances in rational catalyst design guided by the direct observation and theoretical treatment of reaction intermediates. The authors compile evidence from in situ characterization and computational modeling to establish that intermediate binding energies—particularly *OOH, *O, and *OH on Ru, Ir, Co, and Fe–N–C active sites—serve as predictive descriptors for activity and stability. Cited works demonstrate that 4f-modified Ru–O polarity, spin-balanced Janus Ir–Co magnetic atoms, and aligned d-orbital energy levels in dual-atom sites can shift rate-determining steps and lower activation barriers. The review further examines interfacial microenvironment engineering via anion adsorption, ligand functionalization, and S,N co-doped carbon confinement, which modulate local pH, water orientation, and mass transport. Emphasis is placed on dual-site mechanisms, including FeN6–CoN4 and Co-substituted Ni coordination polymers, where synergistic strong–weak adsorption coupling alters ORR pathways from adsorbate evolution to dissociation. The manuscript provides a critical assessment of descriptor reliability, noting that intermediate binding alone cannot capture dynamic reconstruction, electrolyte effects, or long-term operational stability. By integrating in situ spectroscopy with descriptor-based design, the review offers a framework for translating mechanistic insight into durable, cost-effective oxygen electrocatalysts for industrial electrolysis and metal–air batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4477-7
The rapid demand for high-energy-density lithium batteries necessitates advanced solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) to overcome the safety and performance limitations of conventional liquid counterparts. Macrocyclic compounds, with their well-defined cavities, programmable binding sites, and tunable self-assembly, have emerged as powerful molecular regulators for designing next-generation SSEs. This review examines recent advancements in macrocyclic compound-based SSEs by categorizing their functions into four fundamental supramolecular regulation paradigms: cation-centered regulation (e.g., crown ethers), anion-centered regulation (e.g., calixarenes and calixpyrroles), channel-dominated transport (e.g., cyclodextrins), and hybrid regulation (e.g., cucurbiturils). We elucidate how these macrocycles precisely control ion coordination, modulate migration dynamics, and reshape interfacial chemistry, leading to enhanced ionic conductivity, improved Li+ transference numbers, suppressed lithium dendrite growth, and superior interfacial stability. While each paradigm offers distinct advantages, the most promising SSEs often leverage synergistic combinations of these strategies. Finally, we highlight the remaining challenges, including synthetic complexity and multi-objective performance trade-offs, and propose future research directions for developing highly efficient and durable macrocycle-based solid-state lithium batteries.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4138-5
Electrocoagulation (EC) has emerged as a promising electrochemical technology for wastewater treatment, offering distinct advantages over conventional chemical coagulation and membrane processes. This review systematically summarizes recent advancements in EC, focusing on the underlying mechanisms, key operating parameters, and diverse technical applications. The EC process involves three stages: electrolytic oxidation and in-situ coagulant formation, destabilization of contaminants, and floc formation. Unlike chemical coagulation, EC requires no external chemical additives, and process control is achieved by adjusting current density, voltage, or electrode materials, enabling adaptation to varying wastewater qualities. The review highlights the influence of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on EC efficiency, as clarified by Luo et al. (Water Research, 2025). Furthermore, it discusses reactor design innovations, including continuous-flow and cascade-type configurations, and the role of current waveforms in mitigating electrode passivation. The integration of EC with membrane bioreactors and forward osmosis is also examined, demonstrating enhanced treatment performance and fouling mitigation. Key challenges, such as energy consumption and electrode scaling, are addressed, along with future research directions. This comprehensive analysis provides a critical framework for optimizing EC systems and scaling them for industrial wastewater treatment, emphasizing the need for holistic reactor design and process integration to achieve sustainable water reuse.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4250-0
Shape memory polymer (SMP)-based transfer printing offers a promising route for heterogeneous integration of flexible electronics, yet non-contact release reliability remains a critical bottleneck. This study systematically investigates the influence of pickup heating modes—localized versus global—on the release yield and energy-delivery mechanisms through combined experiments and finite element simulations. The localized heating mode concentrates strain energy at the interface, enabling controlled chip ejection with high yield, whereas global heating dissipates energy, leading to release failure. Quantitative analysis reveals that localized heating achieves a release yield of 100% under optimized conditions, compared to near-zero for global heating. The ejection velocity under localized heating is higher, which may induce chip bouncing on the receiver substrate, affecting transfer accuracy; however, this can be mitigated by adjusting release gap and laser parameters. The findings establish a theoretical framework for energy pathway design, providing guidelines for achieving high-yield, accurate non-contact release in laser-induced transfer printing. This work advances the practical application of SMP-based transfer printing for micro-LED displays and flexible electronics, addressing a key manufacturing bottleneck.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3615-1
Stretchable electronics are pivotal for bio-integrated devices, soft robotics, and wearables, yet their development is constrained by single-layer architectures that limit integration density and by mechanical mismatch between rigid components and soft substrates, which curtails service life. Here, we introduce a LEGO-like modular assembly strategy to construct multilayer three-dimensional (3D) stretchable electronics. Electronic components (ECs) and self-healing polyurethane (SPU) substrates patterned with liquid metal (LM) circuits serve as the modular blocks. This design simplifies fabrication and markedly enhances 3D integration density. The combination of LM circuits and self-healing elastic substrates enables devices to withstand diverse deformations and to autonomously heal after mechanical damage. Notably, the devices can undergo multiple recycling and reuse cycles without significant performance loss. This methodology offers a new paradigm for advanced flexible electronics, addressing critical bottlenecks in integration density, mechanical robustness, and sustainability.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3553-7
Gesture interaction has emerged as a highly effective interface for intelligent human-computer interaction, attributed to its intuitive interaction modality and multi-dimensional control capabilities. However, traditional gesture interaction devices often depend on predefined encoding rules, which substantially limit interaction efficiency and degrade user experience. This study introduces an innovative intelligent finger ring interaction system based on a triboelectric nanogenerator utilizing PDMS/SrTiO3 composite thin film (PS-TENG). The system maps freehand writing gestures directly to textual information input, thereby eliminating the need for complex gesture encoding schemes and offering a user-friendly, low-learning-curve input method. By integrating a deep learning model, the system achieves recognition accuracies of 98.21% for English letters, 96.87% for Arabic numerals, and 96.44% for Chinese characters. Furthermore, it supports secure and encrypted data transmission and enables wireless interaction for gaming control. These findings indicate that the intelligent finger ring interaction system possesses significant potential for practical applications in information input and wireless control.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3686-6
Fused silica (SiO2) exhibits exceptional thermal stability and dielectric properties, making it an attractive material for aerospace and military applications. However, its relatively poor mechanical performance has limited its widespread practical utilization. This study proposed an innovative approach to fabricate SiO2-hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) composite ceramics via spark plasma sintering (SPS), leveraging the high-temperature phase transformation of cubic boron nitride (cBN) to introduce randomly oriented hBN as a reinforcing phase within the SiO2 matrix. The randomly oriented hBN nanoplates allow cracks to propagate along stronger grain boundaries, rather than along weaker interlayers of hBN, significantly improving the overall strength and fracture toughness of the composite. The maximum flexural strength and fracture toughness achieved are 183.4 MPa and 2.06 MPa m1/2 respectively, which are 3.6 times and 4 times that of fused SiO2. Concurrently, the composites exhibit low dielectric constants (ε = 3.58–3.69) and dielectric losses (tan δ < 0.0087) at 1 MHz. This work successfully enhanced the mechanical performance of fused SiO2 while preserving its excellent dielectric characteristics, opening new possibilities for its potential applications in advanced structural and functional fields.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3689-9
Converting body heat into electricity presents an appealing route for sustainably powering wearable electronics; however, conventional thermoelectric materials face significant drawbacks, including high ionic concentrations, toxicity, and limited thermoelectric efficiency. Here, we report an ionic thermoelectric hydrogel designed through precise supramolecular chemistry, utilizing dual molecular interactions: host-guest complexation of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) with I3− ions and hydrogen bonding between polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer chains and I3−. This molecularly tailored approach markedly amplifies thermoelectric performance, achieving a high thermopower of 2.21 mV/K and a tenfold enhancement in peak power output at an exceptionally low iodine concentration (10 mmol/L I− + 2.5 mmol/L I3−). The hydrogel maintains excellent biocompatibility and mechanical robustness, suitable for direct skin contact. Demonstrated applications include flexible thermoelectric devices generating nearly 100 mV from body heat and sensor arrays capable of motion and spatial temperature sensing. These results underscore the substantial potential of supramolecularly designed ionic thermoelectric hydrogels for wearable energy harvesting, personalized healthcare monitoring, and advanced human-computer interfaces.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2024112804
The rapid dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in aquatic environments poses serious threats to public health and environmental safety under the 'One Health' framework. Nanoplastics (NPs), as co-occurring pollutants, can exacerbate ARG risks by promoting horizontal gene transfer (HGT), yet the influence of different functional groups on extracellular ARG (eARG) transformation remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of carboxy-modified polystyrene NPs (PS-COOH) and amino-functionalized polystyrene NPs (PS-NH2) compared to unmodified polystyrene NPs (PS) on the transformation of the extracellular resistance plasmid IE-V1955 (carrying an ampicillin resistance gene) into Escherichia coli DH5α. Results showed that PS-COOH exposure promoted plasmid transformation similarly to PS, with effects increasing over 0.1–20 mg·L−1. Low concentrations (0.1–0.5 mg·L−1) of PS-NH2 also enhanced transformation, with stronger effects than PS-COOH at equal doses, whereas high concentrations (1–20 mg·L−1) inhibited it. Mechanistically, PS-COOH (0.1–20 mg·L−1) and low PS-NH2 induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased cell membrane permeability, elevated the protein-to-polysaccharide ratio in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and promoted biofilm formation, thereby facilitating transformation. High PS-NH2 concentrations caused excessive ROS leading to cell lysis and formed aggregates with plasmids larger than membrane pores, blocking uptake. These findings provide a theoretical basis for assessing the combined environmental health risks of NPs and ARGs.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2024122402
Carbamazepine (CBZ), a typical emerging contaminant, poses significant environmental and health risks due to its frequent detection, high toxicity, and resistance to conventional degradation. This study synthesized a composite material (PH-BC3-600) via high-temperature pyrolysis of mining waste pyrite and discarded Polygonatum kingianum dregs biochar. The composite was employed to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for CBZ degradation. Results demonstrated that biochar incorporation provided pyrite with more active sites, achieving 88.19% removal of 2.5 mg·L−1 CBZ within 5 minutes, with excellent resistance to Cl−, NO3−, and humic acid. Quenching experiments confirmed the involvement of ·OH, SO4·−, 1O2, and e− in the degradation process. The biochar increased the content of highly reductive sulfur species (S2−, S2−2, Sn2−) in PH-BC3-600, facilitating the reduction of Fe(III) to Fe(II) and thereby enhancing PMS activation. Additionally, PH-BC3-600 exhibited lower iron leaching compared to traditional pyrite-based materials, overcoming a key drawback of conventional catalysts. This study highlights the promising potential of PH-BC3-600 for activating PMS in the treatment of emerging contaminants in water.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225184
Thermal power units have long dominated China's energy structure due to the low cost of coal and their role in ensuring grid stability. However, under the dual pressures of climate change and national carbon peaking/neutrality goals, the environmental impact of their 'three wastes' has become critical, necessitating energy-saving retrofits. This review systematically examines mainstream energy-saving technologies for thermal power units, including boiler combustion optimization, heating surface cleaning, turbine flow path upgrades, waste heat recovery and cascade utilization, and cold-end system optimization. Using coal consumption rate as the core economic index, the study integrates case studies and operational data from typical domestic and international units to evaluate the latest progress, practical effects, advantages, and limitations of each technology. Results indicate that these technologies significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution. For instance, boiler combustion optimization based on support vector machines and neural networks enhances thermal efficiency and reduces NOx emissions. Turbine flow path modifications, from full three-dimensional CFD optimization to advanced blades and combined steam seals, yield notable gains in cylinder efficiency and heat rate reduction. Low-temperature economizers reduce coal consumption and auxiliary power/water use in dust removal and desulfurization systems. Heat pump applications include absorption, compression, and hybrid types. In cold-end optimization, data-driven predictive maintenance and real-time performance tuning of condensers achieve nearly 50% energy savings in circulating water pumps and an average coal consumption reduction of 2-3 g/(kW·h). Despite these advances, gaps remain in multi-objective optimization robustness, intelligent diagnosis, and advanced materials. Future research should focus on deep reinforcement learning for adaptive control, sensor networks for real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance, and high-temperature corrosion-resistant materials for heat exchangers, while balancing initial investment and maintenance costs.
The Chinese Journal of Process Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12034/j.issn.1009-606X.225221
The proliferation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in portable electronics and electric vehicles has generated a pressing need for sustainable recycling of spent batteries. Conventional pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical routes suffer from low metal recovery efficiencies or require additional precipitants. This study introduces a clean and efficient process for recovering lithium (Li) and cobalt (Co) from spent LiCoO2 cathode materials using a choline chloride-oxalic acid-water (ChCl-OA-H2O) deep eutectic solvent (DES). The method exploits selective precipitation of Co as cobalt oxalate dihydrate (CoC2O4·2H2O) followed by water-content-regulated recovery of Li as lithium oxalate (Li2C2O4) via evaporation crystallization, eliminating the need for external precipitants. Under optimized conditions (molar ratio 1:1:8, solid-liquid ratio 100 g/L, 90 °C, 6.5 h), the leaching efficiency of Li reached 99.4%, with recovery efficiencies of 88.3% for Li and 97.8% for Co. The DES system demonstrated robust cycling stability, maintaining Li and Co recoveries of 78.1% and 92.8% after six regeneration cycles. This work provides a low-pollution, economically viable pathway for LIB recycling, contributing to resource sustainability and offering significant industrial potential.
New Carbon Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61113-4
Porous pyrolytic carbon (PPyC) serves as the buffer layer in TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel particles, providing storage for fission gases, preventing damage to outer layers, and absorbing stresses caused by fuel-kernel swelling. However, the changes of PPyC micro- and meso-structure at high temperatures remain insufficiently understood. In this study, PPyC fabricated by chemical vapor deposition was heat-treated from 1200 to 1600 °C and characterized across atomic-to-mesoscopic scales. Results show that the structure changes with temperature with a transition at approximately 1400 °C. Below 1400 °C, a decrease in Raman ID/IG ratio, narrowing of the graphite diffraction peak, and increased sp2 hybridization indicate progressive ordering associated with defect redistribution. Concurrent decreases in true density and mesopore volume, together with increased closed porosity, are consistent with partial conversion of open pores into closed pores. Above 1400 °C, increased ID/IG ratio, broadening of the diffraction peak near the rhombohedral graphite (101) reflection, and transition regions between crystalline and amorphous material observed by TEM indicate increasing structural disorder. Meanwhile, initially distinct PPyC particle boundaries blur and merge into broad, plate-like domains. Subsequent decrease in closed porosity and increase in mesopore surface area are consistent with partial connection of closed pores to the open-pore network. This work shows that intrinsic coupling between atomic-scale structural change and mesoscale pore connectivity provides a basis for assessing high-temperature structural stability of PPyC in TRISO fuel particles.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202507081
Coal chemical waste salt, a solid residue from evaporative crystallization of high-salinity wastewater, poses significant environmental risks and challenges for resource utilization due to its complex composition. This study systematically analyzes its composition and environmental hazards, highlighting its typical "mixed salt" nature and the potential threats of organic pollutants and heavy metals to soil, water, and ecosystems. It reviews mainstream treatment pathways, including organic degradation, inorganic impurity removal, and salt separation, with a focus on the resource utilization of sodium chloride and sodium sulfate and their industrial prospects. The current pollution control technical specifications and product quality standards are examined, comparing the scope and technical points of relevant standards such as the "Technical Specification for Pollution Control of Chemical Waste Salt." Finally, countermeasures are proposed to address challenges including difficult treatment of mixed salts, insufficient resource utilization incentives, and incomplete standard systems, emphasizing technological innovation, policy guidance, and standard improvement.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202508053
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in industrial soils pose significant risks due to their hydrophobicity and low bioavailability, limiting the efficacy of bioremediation. This study investigated the enhancement of an in-situ electrokinetic-biological barrier (EK-BB) system for PAH-contaminated soil using biosurfactants. Three biosurfactants—rhamnolipid (RL), alkyl polyglycoside (APG), and saponin (SAP)—were applied individually and in combinations at 10× critical micelle concentration (CMC), and the optimal RL+APG mixture was further tested at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10× CMC. Results showed that biosurfactant application improved soil electrical current, moisture retention, and PAH removal. Combined surfactants outperformed single ones, with the 10× CMC RL+APG treatment (Exp IV) achieving the highest average current intensity and moisture content, 1.31 and 1.12 times that of the control (CK), respectively, and a PAH removal of 106.02 mg·kg⁻¹. Biosurfactants also promoted bacterial growth in both contaminated soil and the biobarrier layer; the 10× CMC RL+APG treatment increased bacterial counts by 6.24-fold and 44.8%, respectively. However, excessive surfactant concentrations led to PAH accumulation in the biobarrier and clean soil. The 5× CMC RL+APG treatment provided optimal balance, maximizing PAH removal while maintaining barrier effectiveness. These findings confirm that appropriate biosurfactant concentrations can enhance EK-BB remediation, offering technical support for PAH-contaminated site remediation and safe reuse.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(26)60644-5
Lignin, as the sole renewable source of aromatic compounds, holds significant potential for producing green aviation fuel-range arenes via hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). In this study, a series of nitrogen-doped carbon-supported FeMoS/NC bimetallic catalysts were synthesized via a hydrothermal method. The HDO performance was evaluated using 4-ethylguaiacol as a model compound at 340 °C under 3 MPa H2. The unmodified MoS2/NC catalyst achieved a deoxygenation degree of 83.4%, whereas the Fe-modified catalyst with an optimal Fe/Mo molar ratio of 0.3 (Fe0.3MoS/NC) attained complete deoxygenation (100%) with an arenes selectivity of 78.6%. Beyond this optimal ratio, the deoxygenation degree inversely correlated with the Fe/Mo molar ratio. Characterization via XRD, TEM, BET, and XPS revealed that Fe incorporation enhanced the uniform dispersion of MoS2 on the NC support, increased surface acidity, and raised the concentration of sulfur vacancies, thereby promoting adsorption of oxygen-containing compounds. The HDO pathway over Fe0.3MoS/NC primarily proceeded via direct deoxygenation. When applied to real lignin under identical conditions (340 °C, 3 MPa H2, 12 h), the catalyst yielded 65.5% green hydrocarbons, with the C8–C16 fraction accounting for 54.4% of total hydrocarbons and an aromatic selectivity of 63.4% within this fraction. These results demonstrate that Fe0.3MoS/NC is a viable catalyst for selective conversion of lignin into green arenes suitable for sustainable aviation fuel applications.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(25)60612-8
Coal gasification fine slag (CGFS) is a solid waste generated in large quantities during coal gasification, containing residual carbon and inorganic ash rich in SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, Fe2O3, and MgO. The carbon-rich components (CGFS-H) of CGFS, typically comprising 20–50% residual carbon, present both environmental challenges and opportunities for resource recovery. This study systematically investigates the selective leaching behavior of Fe3+, Al3+, and Ca2+ from CGFS-H using three organic acid extractants: citric acid, tartaric acid, and tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (IDS-4Na). The results demonstrate distinct selectivity: IDS-4Na exhibits the highest leaching yield and selectivity for Fe3+, achieving a single leaching yield of 41.2% while suppressing Ca2+ and Al3+ leaching to below 4%, with a selectivity ratio of Fe3+ to Al3+ and Ca2+ of 10.73. Tartaric acid effectively leaches both Fe3+ and Al3+, with single yields of 38.7% and 33.5%, respectively, while Ca2+ leaching remains below 5%, yielding a selectivity of Fe3+ and Al3+ relative to Ca2+ of 14.73. Citric acid preferentially leaches Ca2+, achieving a single yield of 71.5%, but also leaches Fe3+ and Al3+ at 35.2% and 39.1%, respectively, resulting in a low selectivity ratio of Ca2+ to Fe3+ and Al3+ of 0.96. Based on these selective affinities, a green stepwise separation method was developed using sequential leaching with IDS-4Na, tartaric acid, and citric acid. Under optimal conditions, cumulative leaching yields of 79.8% for Fe3+, 65.08% for Al3+, and 78.6% for Ca2+ were achieved. XRD, XRF, and SEM analyses elucidate the complexation mechanisms, indicating that the synergistic effects of selective coordination between structurally diverse organic acids and metal ions drive the process. This advancement provides a critical foundation for developing Ca/Fe/Al hydrotalcite materials using CGFS-H as a sustainable feedstock, promoting resource-efficient utilization of coal gasification fine slag.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(25)60619-0
Under the context of global energy transition and carbon neutrality, controlling nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from biomass combustion is of great significance, and the development of high-efficiency low-temperature catalysts has become a current research focus. In this study, Nb was used to dope and modify the Mn7-Cu3/BCN catalyst to construct the Mn7-Cu3-Nbx/BCN system. The doping amount was optimized through selective catalytic reduction (SCR) activity tests. The reaction mechanism was explored by combining in situ DRIFTS and density functional theory (DFT) simulations. Experimental findings revealed that the catalyst doped with 0.05% Nb achieved the optimal performance, sustaining a NO conversion efficiency of ≥94% within the temperature window of 150−275 °C while demonstrating improved resistance to alkali metal K poisoning. Mechanistic analyses showed that at low temperatures, the catalyst facilitated the SCR reaction via both the Eley-Rideal (E-R) and Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) pathways, with the synergistic interaction between multiple active sites driving the efficient conversion of NH3 and NO. DFT calculations further confirmed that both pathways had the characteristics of low reaction energy barriers and significant exothermicity, ensuring the high activity and feasibility of the low-temperature reaction. The findings provided foundational theoretical support for the design of Nb-doped Mn-Cu-supported catalysts and the exploration of the underlying working mechanisms.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3741-3
Functional motifs are essential microscopic units that govern the second harmonic generation (SHG) response in nonlinear optical (NLO) materials. While nonmetal-centered motifs have been extensively studied, metal-centered motifs with outstanding comprehensive performance remain scarce. Here, we report the successful synthesis of the first seven-coordinated indium oxy-chloride and oxy-bromide polyhedra, InO6X (X = Cl, Br), by leveraging the chelating and structure-directing properties of SeO3 groups. The InO6Br polyhedra exhibit the highest polarization anisotropy and hyperpolarizability among all reported indium oxy-chloride and oxy-bromide groups. Consequently, the first non-centrosymmetric halogenated indium selenites, In2(OH)(SeO3)2Cl (ISOC) and In2(OH)(SeO3)2Br (ISOB), were obtained. Both compounds demonstrate strong SHG intensity exceeding six times that of KDP (potassium dihydrogen phosphate) and wide band gaps greater than 4.0 eV, a combination rarely observed in inorganic selenites. This work presents a viable strategy for developing new NLO functional motifs and offers valuable insights for designing novel SHG materials with enhanced performance.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202509067
Marine litter poses a significant threat to coastal ecosystems globally, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its multi-compartment distribution and driving mechanisms for effective management. This study investigated the occurrence, composition, and sources of beach, sea surface, and seafloor litter in the northeastern Daya Bay, a semi-enclosed bay, during August–October 2024. Sampling included 11 beach transects, 6 surface transects, and 25 seafloor transects. Results showed that the mean density of large and very large beach litter was 4.41×10^5 items·km−2, while medium beach litter reached 5.39×10^6 items·km−2. Surface litter densities were 5.82×10^2 and 9.90×10^3 items·km−2 for large/very large and medium fractions, respectively. Seafloor litter averaged 5.20×10^3 items·km−2. Plastics dominated all compartments, accounting for 74.0% (beach), 96.0% (surface), and 78.8% (seafloor) of total litter. Source apportionment using NOWPAP methodology indicated that beach and surface litter primarily originated from coastal recreational activities, whereas seafloor litter was mainly derived from shipping and fishing. Beach quality assessment revealed that 63.6% of beaches were moderately clean or better (grade II–IV), and 90.9% were moderately safe or better (grade I–III). Hotspots included tourism beaches, tidal gyre areas, coral reef zones, and fishing grounds. The study underscores the need for targeted management, including improved waste collection on tourist beaches, dynamic cleaning protocols, and port reception facilities for fishing waste.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2025030501
Coastal areas serve as critical ecological interfaces for the migration of terrestrial microplastics (MPs) into the ocean, and characterizing their pollution is essential for integrated coastal management. This study investigated the occurrence, sources, and ecological risks of MPs in surface waters of nearshore areas and river estuaries around Hainan Island, a typical tropical tourist island. MPs abundance ranged from 316.67 to 1300 n·m−3 in seawater and from 400 to 5416.67 n·m−3 in river water. In seawater, the dominant polymer was polyethylene terephthalate, with fibers being the predominant shape, size class 500–1000 μm, and white/transparent color. In river water, polypropylene-ethylene copolymer dominated, also as fibers, but with size class 100–500 μm and white/transparent color. Seawater MP abundance showed a significant positive correlation with tourist numbers, and distribution across functional areas followed: tourism areas > natural areas > aquaculture areas > residential areas. Multiple correspondence analysis identified household plastic waste, laundry wastewater, aquaculture, and fishery products as primary sources of seawater MPs. Principal component analysis indicated homologous characteristics between seawater and river MPs, suggesting rivers are a major pathway for terrestrial MP transport to coastal zones. Ecological risk assessment revealed low pollution loads, with potential ecological risks moderate for seawater and medium-low for river water. Notably, 15% of seawater sampling sites exhibited polymer risk level Ⅳ, primarily driven by polyacrylonitrile's high biological toxicity. These findings provide a scientific basis for developing MP pollution control strategies in Hainan Island.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(26)60660-3
Catalytic oxidation is a pivotal technology for the valorization of light hydrocarbons, with oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) and epoxidation using molecular oxygen attracting significant interest due to high atom economy and environmental friendliness. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the oxidative dehydrogenation of light alkanes (ethane, propane) and aerobic epoxidation of light olefins (ethylene, propylene). For rational catalyst design, it elaborates on performance regulation strategies for metal oxide catalysts such as MoVNbTeOx mixed oxides, NiO-based, and V-based systems, as well as carbon/boron-based non-metal catalysts in alkane ODH, and silver- and copper-based catalysts in alkene epoxidation. Strategies include regulating the oxidation state of active sites, exploiting strong metal-support interactions, engineering particle size and crystal facets, and promoter modification. At the mechanistic level, combining density functional theory calculations with in situ characterization, the review examines C–H bond activation and alkene desorption pathways in ODH, and oxygen insertion routes and competing side reactions in epoxidation. Special attention is given to the dynamic evolution of electrophilic and nucleophilic oxygen species and their decisive role in selectivity. Persistent challenges include suppressing over-oxidation and overcoming the conversion–selectivity trade-off. Future directions propose precise design of active centers, development of inherently safer processes, and in-depth analysis of complex reaction networks, supporting the green transition of the chemical industry.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3864-4
Organic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials, particularly those emitting in the near-infrared (NIR) region, hold great promise for bioimaging due to their deep-tissue penetration and minimal autofluorescence interference. However, achieving efficient NIR RTP with long lifetimes remains challenging due to inefficient triplet exciton utilization. Herein, we propose a dark triplet state activation strategy to achieve efficient NIR RTP by leveraging host–guest energy transfer. Using benzophenone derivatives (BP, OBP, MBP, PBP) as rigid host matrices with high intersystem crossing (ISC) efficiency and an NIR fluorophore (MPTCF) as the guest, we achieve efficient Dexter-type triplet-triplet energy transfer (TTET) that converts non-emissive host triplets into guest-centered NIR phosphorescence. Systematic optimization of the host–guest system has shown that PBP/MPTCF exhibits exceptional performance, including long phosphorescence centered at 705 nm, an ultralong phosphorescence lifetime (210.3 ms), and high ISC efficiency (44.4%). When fabricated into nanoparticles (NPs), PBP/MPTCF exhibits superior performance, featuring prolonged phosphorescence signals (>120 s), deep tissue penetration capability (>2 mm), and excellent biocompatibility (cell viability >95% at 300 μM). In addition, this system enables high-contrast subcutaneous imaging with excellent dispersibility and stable in vivo imaging capability. More importantly, PBP/MPTCF NPs demonstrate precise lymph node mapping through time-gated phosphorescence imaging and efficient tumor visualization within 4 h post-injection with a high tumor-to-liver ratio of 2.8. The successful activation of dark triplet states through this host–guest approach provides a general design principle for developing high-performance NIR RTP materials, while the demonstrated biomedical applications highlight their significant potential for advanced bioimaging and precision diagnostics.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-025-3894-9
Photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) using water and O2 offers an economical, environmentally friendly, and sustainable route for H2O2 synthesis. However, current photocatalytic systems suffer from poor charge carrier transport, narrow light absorption, and insufficient active sites, leading to unsatisfactory H2O2 production efficiency. In this study, a CoS/ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) composite was constructed by in-situ growing CoS nanoclusters on ZIS via a solvothermal method for photocatalytic H2O2 production. The integration of CoS with ZIS broadened the light absorption spectrum. The optimized CoS/ZIS-3 composite exhibited an exceptional H2O2 production rate of 2693.39 μmol g−1 h−1 under visible light in isopropanol, surpassing pristine ZIS and CoS by factors of 6.54 and 18.08, respectively. The S-scheme heterojunction and built-in electric field synergistically enhanced the separation and transportation of photogenerated charge carriers, thereby improving photocatalytic efficiency. The H2O2 synthesis mechanism involves dual-channel oxygen reduction and water oxidation reactions mediated by CoS/ZIS. The produced H2O2 effectively degraded organic pollutants and inhibited the growth of E. coli. This study presents a promising green strategy for enhancing ZIS-based photocatalysts through constructing S-scheme heterojunctions for efficient H2O2 synthesis.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202510034
Phosphonate wastewater, characterized by stable C–P bonds, poses significant environmental risks due to its resistance to degradation and potential to contribute to eutrophication. This study developed a chloride-enhanced Fe(II)/PMS/H2O2 system for the oxidative degradation of 2-phosphonobutane-1,2,4-tricarboxylic acid (PBTC) and simultaneous recovery of phosphorus as iron phosphate (FePO4). Under optimal conditions (0.1 mmol/L PBTC, 1.0 mmol/L Fe(II), 0.5 mmol/L PMS, 0.5 mmol/L H2O2, 10 mmol/L NaCl, initial pH 3.0, 60 min), total phosphorus (TP) removal reached 100%, with phosphorus nearly completely recovered as FePO4 precipitate. Increasing NaCl concentration and temperature enhanced TP removal, while pH significantly influenced removal efficiency and product speciation; acidic conditions (pH < 4.3) favored FePO4 precipitation. Coexisting Ca2+ and Mg2+ had negligible effects, whereas HCO3− and humic acid (HA) inhibited TP removal in a concentration-dependent manner. Radical quenching and electron spin resonance (ESR) analyses identified hydroxyl radicals (•OH), ferryl ion (Fe(IV)=O), sulfate radicals (SO4•−), and chlorine radicals (Cl•) as primary reactive species, with •OH playing a dominant role. Chloride introduction promoted the generation of multiple reactive species, and Cl• and its derivative Cl2•− directly attacked the C–P bond and phosphonate group, facilitating phosphorus release as PO43− and subsequent FePO4 formation. The system's feasibility was validated using actual industrial circulating cooling water. This study provides a novel approach for phosphonate wastewater treatment and phosphorus recovery.
Chinese Journal of Environmental Engineering•2026•DOI: 10.12030/j.cjee.202511020
With the increasing number of oil pipelines crossing rivers, the potential risks of oil leakage and surface spreading to river ecosystems and water environments are becoming more severe. Scenario-based simulation of oil spill diffusion is a prerequisite for effective interception point placement and leakage risk prevention. Numerous factors influence oil spill diffusion, including environmental conditions, river hydrology, and accessibility of emergency resources. This study integrates these factors and multiple dynamic processes to design eight typical scenarios for oil spill diffusion simulation, considering emergency resource locations, river hydrological regimes, and leakage modes. A case study is conducted on an oil pipeline crossing a river in northwest China. Results indicate that the diffusion distance and affected area are primarily controlled by water conditions and emergency resource accessibility. In emergency management, the efficiency of maintenance and repair resources during high-water months should be prioritized. Mechanistically, external forces such as hydraulic and wind forces have a greater influence on diffusion distance, surpassing internal forces like gravity, viscosity, and surface tension within a short time. For river crossings near emergency resources, internal force effects should be considered in oil spill diffusion simulations. When emergency resource arrival times are long, the diffusion distance based on Fay's theory is relatively small and can be neglected in engineering practice. This study provides a computational basis and methodological reference for risk assessment and emergency response to potential oil spills from pipelines crossing rivers, enhancing the scientific and effective nature of risk prevention and emergency handling.
Environmental Chemistry•2026•DOI: 10.7524/j.issn.0254-6108.2026020207
Although the production and use of hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) have been completely banned in China since December 2021, historical production activities may still leave high-concentration residual contamination in localized areas. This study investigated a typical legacy site of historical HBCDs production in eastern China. Surface and core soil samples were systematically collected both inside and outside the former plant area to characterize the occurrence, spatial distribution, and environmental burden of HBCDs, and to evaluate associated human health risks. Results showed that HBCD concentrations in soils outside the plant area ranged from below detection limit to 6.90×10² ng·g⁻¹ dw, while those inside the plant area were substantially higher, reaching up to 1.18×10⁶ ng·g⁻¹ dw. γ-HBCD was the dominant isomer; however, its relative abundance was lower than that reported in commercial HBCD mixtures and in previous studies conducted near production facilities. Outside the plant, HBCDs concentrations in soil generally decreased with increasing distance from the site, yet remained detectable at a distance of approximately 10 km (15.2 ng·g⁻¹ dw). Within the plant area, HBCDs concentrations in soil cores decreased with depth, declining from 1.08×10⁴–1.18×10⁶ ng·g⁻¹ dw in surface soils to 1.05–93.5 ng·g⁻¹ dw at depths of about 4 m. Analysis of the relative cumulative environmental burden indicated that although HBCDs loads were highest in the near-source area, they gradually accumulated over a broader spatial scale. Approximately 23.7%, 40.1%, 60.0%, and 87.1% of the total estimated burden accumulated within 2 km, 2.81 km, 4 km, and 6 km from the site, respectively. Health risk assessment indicated that oral ingestion of soil was the primary exposure pathway for different populations. Localized high-contamination zones within the plant area contributed significantly to non-carcinogenic risks, while overall risks for children outside the plant area were at acceptable levels.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202608007
The Minjiang River Basin, subjected to combined pollution from domestic, agricultural, and industrial sources, has become a typical sensitive area for studying the environmental behavior of emerging contaminants such as antibiotics. This study conducted a cross-year comparative analysis of the composition and concentrations of antibiotics in water samples from nine sampling sites during the dry season in November 2022 and 2024. The findings revealed: 1) After the implementation of the "National Action Plan for Reducing Antimicrobial Use in Livestock", the detection concentrations of tetracycline antibiotics (TCs) decreased (e.g., doxycycline concentrations dropped from 7.75 ng/L to undetectable levels), and the mixed risk quotient (MRQ) across the entire basin transitioned from medium to low risk. However, lincomycin (up to 4.6 ng/L), clarithromycin (1.3 ng/L), and florfenicol (0.6 ng/L) have emerged, indicating an increasing hidden ecological risk from substitution. 2) High-concentration antibiotic zones transferred from urban residential areas in 2022 to intensive aquaculture zones and upstream reservoir areas in 2024. The reduction in dry-season water flow intensified pollutant accumulation, synergistically enhancing the effects of tidal drag. Additionally, the conversion of agricultural land to aquaculture ponds led to increased use of alternative drugs (e.g., sulfamethazine), while policy interventions mitigated the exacerbation of urban antibiotic pollution by construction land. This study elucidates the migration patterns of antibiotic pollution under the synergistic effects of policy regulation and natural processes, emphasizing the need to address hidden risks of substitute drugs and the driving role of land-use changes, providing scientific basis for watershed-scale risk assessment and precise management of emerging pollutants.
Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology•2026•DOI: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202608025
To evaluate heavy metal contamination and human health risks in desert lakes, this study analyzed concentrations of seven heavy metals (Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, As) in Hongjiannao Lake, Northern Shaanxi, from 2013 to 2024. The absolute principal component score-multiple linear regression (APCS-MLR) model quantitatively apportioned pollution sources, and a health risk assessment model evaluated non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks. Results showed average concentrations of the seven metals did not exceed background values, but 28.57% of sampling points exceeded background for As, with a maximum exceedance factor of 1.92. Total average concentration decreased from 112.51 μg/L (2013–2016) to 58.80 μg/L (2017–2024), attributed to the 2016 closure of small coal mines and ecological restoration around the 4A scenic area. Source apportionment identified four sources: industrial (35.44%), agricultural (24.67%), natural (23.65%), and traffic (16.23%), indicating industrial dominance. Non-carcinogenic risks were negligible, but carcinogenic risks exceeded the alert value (1×10⁻⁴), with adults at higher risk than children. Oral ingestion was the primary exposure pathway. As and Cd were key control elements, with exceedance rates of 100% and 16.67%, respectively. These findings provide a theoretical basis for health risk prevention and environmental management.
Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5813(26)60717-7
Alkali lignin, a high-volume byproduct from pulp and paper manufacturing and biomass refining, is a promising feedstock for aromatic hydrocarbon production in liquid fuels due to its high energy density and abundant aromatic moieties. However, its highly cross-linked polymeric structure hinders efficient valorization. This work investigates catalytic conversion of alkali lignin into bio-oil under in situ H2 supply from formic acid. A series of Ni-Mo/h-BN bimetallic catalysts with varied metal ratios were synthesized by impregnation and characterized by XPS, XRD, and other techniques. The effects of reaction parameters on H2 production via aqueous-phase reforming (APR) of formic acid were evaluated. Optimal H2 yield was achieved at a formic acid-to-water molar ratio of 1:10 and a Ni/Mo atomic ratio of 3:1. H2 yield increased monotonically with temperature from 220 to 280 °C, reaching a maximum of 38.48 mmol. Subsequently, influences of reaction temperature and residence time on bio-oil production were examined. The highest heavy bio-oil yield (18.93%) and maximum relative content of aromatic hydrocarbons (13.81%) were both achieved at 280 °C. Prolonged reaction time reduced heavy bio-oil yield and aromatic hydrocarbon abundance while favoring furan derivatives. This work demonstrates good synergy between in situ hydrogen generation from formic acid and lignin hydrogenation in the temperature range 240–280 °C.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4132-y
Manganese-iron-based mixed polyanionic cathodes are promising for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) due to high energy density and operating voltage, but suffer from Jahn-Teller distortion of Mn3+ that degrades cycling stability. Here, a structural modulation strategy via Mg2+ doping is reported. Electrochemically inert Mg2+ forms stronger chemical bonds, adjusts lattice parameters, and suppresses Jahn-Teller distortion, enhancing structural stability. Mg2+ also widens sodium-ion diffusion channels, improving diffusion kinetics. Additionally, an in-situ three-dimensional carbon nanotube (CNT) conductive network boosts electronic conductivity. The resulting NFMPP-Mg@CNTs cathode delivers a discharge capacity of 126 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C (near theoretical 129 mAh g−1), retains 80% capacity after 3000 cycles at 0.5 C, and achieves an energy density of 401 Wh kg−1, among the highest reported for mixed phosphate systems. Ex-situ XPS and first-principles calculations confirm that Mg2+ resists geometric distortion by enhancing lattice stability and widening Na+ diffusion pathways (migration barrier reduced from 0.566 to 0.398 eV). This work provides a viable route for high-energy, long-life SIB cathodes suitable for large-scale energy storage.
SCIENCE CHINA Materials•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40843-026-4135-3
Sodium-ion batteries (NIBs) are increasingly recognized as a promising technology for large-scale energy storage and heavy-duty electric vehicles, owing to the global abundance and cost-effectiveness of sodium resources. While gravimetric energy density has been the focus of battery research, the burgeoning demand for compact energy storage in space-constrained applications has shifted priorities toward volumetric energy density. In this context, alloy-based anodes—particularly metallic tin (Sn)—offer a compelling theoretical capacity (847 mAh g−1) and a high tap density that far exceeds that of conventional hard carbon. However, the commercialization of micrometre-sized Sn has been chronically hindered by two intrinsic material limitations: the “cold welding” effect during manufacturing, caused by its extreme Mohs softness (1.5), leading to agglomeration of the electrode material, and the rapid structural pulverization resulting from massive volume expansion (~420%) during sodiation/desodiation cycles, causing the electrode particles to lose electrochemical activity and resulting in capacity fading. Conventional mitigation strategies, such as nanostructuring and addition of high weight-percentage carbon additives, often sacrifice initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), volumetric capacity, and material scalability. Addressing the fundamental challenge of how to maintain stable electrical connectivity and structural integrity in micrometre-scale alloy particles without compromising the energy density of the entire electrode represents a significant research endeavor. Recently, Hu’s group introduced single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as a conductive cross-linker, termed “9226-SWCNT”, configured as (92 wt% Sn, 2 wt% SWCNTs, and 6 wt% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) binder). This specific ratio creates a robust three-dimensional cross-linked network. Unlike zero-dimensional carbon black (acetylene black), the high-aspect-ratio SWCNTs act as a flexible “nano-bandage” that wraps around the micrometre-scale Sn particles. This transforms the electrical connectivity from inefficient point contact to stable “face-to-face” contact. This network offers a dual benefit: the SWCNTs serve as a mechanical barrier that prevents Sn particles from cold welding during the mixing process, and they function as an elastic scaffold that maintains electrical continuity despite the drastic volume fluctuations of the Sn particles. When the conventional acetylene black-based electrodes fail rapidly, the 9226-SWCNT system demonstrates 87.6% capacity retention after 6000 cycles at 2 A g−1, proving that the mechanical architecture of the conductive network is as vital as its electronic properties. The Sn electrode transforms into a three-dimensional porous coral-like structure upon sodiation, which facilitates Na+ diffusion and buffers the mechanical stress induced by volume expansion. The authors compared the effects of different proportions of SWCNTs. To characterize the resulting morphological evolution, they introduced topological analysis and machine learning (ML), using the first Betti number (β1) as a metric to quantify the coral-like structure by counting the closed loops within the sodiated Sn anode. The 9226-SWCNT electrode maintains a significantly higher β1 value during cycling compared to the 9046-SWCNT (4 wt% SWCNT) sample. This reveals that a higher content of conductive additive (4% vs. 2%) actually results in fewer structural pores; that is, an excessive amount of SWCNTs hinders the topological evolution of Sn and consequently impedes its sodiation process. The authors further explain this through the “exposure effect”: initially, Sn particles are “embedded” and shielded by the SWCNT-CMC network. If the network is too dense, it restricts the necessary morphological transformation, underscoring the critical balance between conductive additive content and electrochemical performance.