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Showing 35 of 35 peer-reviewed papers with full Graphical Abstracts.

Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 1 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61075-X• Jan 15, 2026

Electrospinning of FeNiCo/carbon nanofibers: a new paradigm for lightweight microwave absorbers

Authors: YUAN Wenpei, QU Lin, WANG Yajing, LIU Pengyu, ZHANG Yanlan, WANG Yongzhen

The proliferation of electronic devices has intensified electromagnetic radiation pollution, necessitating advanced microwave absorption materials. This study presents the electrospinning fabrication of FeNiCo/carbon nanofiber (FeNiCo/CNF) composites with exceptional microwave absorption properties. The FeNiCo/CNFs achieved a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −55.5 dB at 14.24 GHz with an ultrathin matching thickness of only 1.6 mm. Microstructural analysis and electromagnetic parameter testing revealed that the superior absorption stems from the synergistic interaction between the carbon nanofiber network and FeNiCo alloy nanoparticles, which promotes multiple reflections and efficient energy dissipation. The precise control of coercivity and permeability via systematic modulation of magnetic metal composition enabled enhanced impedance matching and optimized magnetic-dielectric synergy. Furthermore, radar cross-section (RCS) simulations confirmed the material's capability to significantly reduce RCS values across a wide angular range, validating its potential for stealth technology applications. This work introduces a cost-effective and sustainable approach for developing ultralight, high-performance microwave absorbers, addressing the limitations of conventional materials such as high density and poor stability.

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Electrospinning of FeNiCo/carbon nanofibers: a new paradigm for lightweight microwave absorbers

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 1 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61029-8• Jan 15, 2026

Electrochemical Exfoliation of Carbon Paper for Binder-Free Cathodes in Zinc-Ion Supercapacitors

Authors: Iqra Ashraf, Awais Ahmad, Ibrahim A. Shaaban, Tensangmu Lama Tamang, Muhammad Sufyan Javed, Haosen Fan, Li Fang

Zinc-ion supercapacitors (ZISCs) are promising energy storage devices due to their low cost, high safety, and minimal environmental impact. However, their low energy density and poor cycling performance hinder practical application. This study presents a simple electrochemical exfoliation method to reconstruct the surface of carbon paper, introducing oxygen functional groups that enhance pseudocapacitance. The resulting binder-free electrode (EECP) exhibits a large surface area and rapid charge transfer, leading to a dominant capacitive-type charge storage mechanism with 78.8% capacitive contribution at 10 mV/s. The EECP electrode delivers a maximum specific capacitance of 252.5 F/g at 1 A/g and retains 81.7% of its capacitance after 10,000 cycles. A full ZISC device, assembled with EECP as the cathode, Zn as the anode, and 1 mol L−1 ZnSO4 aqueous electrolyte, achieves a capacitance of 186.22 F/g at 1 A/g, a capacitance retention of 97.01% after 10,000 cycles, and an energy density of 46.6 Wh/kg at a power density of 500.4 W/kg. These results demonstrate that EECP is a promising cathode material for high-rate, next-generation zinc-ion supercapacitors.

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Electrochemical Exfoliation of Carbon Paper for Binder-Free Cathodes in Zinc-Ion Supercapacitors

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 1 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61012-2• Jan 15, 2026

Increasing the Strength of Carbon Nanotube Fibers and Their Use as a Polishing Medium

Authors: XUE Zhiping, LU Jing, HUANG Hui

We report a method for increasing the mechanical strength of carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers while enabling the uniform adhesion of cerium oxide (CeO2) abrasive particles to them using polyethyleneimine (PEI). Results show that 5% of PEI increases the tensile strength of CNT fibers by approximately 175%. CeO2 particles were uniformly deposited on the reinforced CNT fibers by electrophoretic deposition. A flexible polishing tool was fabricated by weaving the CeO2-CNT fibers into a non-woven fabric substrate. When used to polish potassium dihydrogen phosphate crystals, the tool reduced the surface roughness from 200 to 7.6 nm within 10 min. This approach has potential use for the development of new precision processing tools.

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Increasing the Strength of Carbon Nanotube Fibers and Their Use as a Polishing Medium

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 1 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61033-X• Jan 15, 2026

Engineered mesoporous carbon spheres with tailored pore structures for improved photothermal-chemotherapy

Authors: LIU Pengxiang, DU Juan, CHEN Aibing, HOU Senlin

Carbon-based materials have gained significant attention in anticancer treatment due to their exceptional biocompatibility, yet critical challenges persist in establishing definitive correlations between their porous structures and functional performance. We report the use of a silica template to guide pore formation in the design of mesoporous carbon spheres (mC) with tailored pore structures for improved combined photothermal-chemotherapy. The mesopore size of mC was adjusted by kinetic control of resin polymerization and silica hydrolysis. Structural characterization showed that 4.4 nm mesopores enabled an exceptional gemcitabine loading of 228 mg g−1 and a sustained pH/thermal dual-responsive release with >70% drug release under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Finite element analysis demonstrated pore size-dependent heat transfer dynamics, with the improved mC achieving a superior photothermal conversion efficiency of 62% by a combination of N-doping and defect engineering. In vitro evaluations confirmed outstanding biocompatibility with >95% cell viability at 200 μg mL−1 and potent tumor suppression in pancreatic and biliary cancer models with an ~5% cell viability at 25 μg mL−1 where combined therapy showed a 3.7-fold increased cytotoxicity over monotherapy. The improved structure of mC facilitated cascade therapeutic effects with enhanced tumor permeability derived from NIR-triggered hyperthermia and prolonged therapeutic exposure due to pH-responsive drug release. This pore engineering strategy establishes a structure-function process for next-generation theranostic platforms, addressing the critical limitations of conventional pancreatic and biliary cancer therapies through spatiotemporal control of multimodal treatment.

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Engineered mesoporous carbon spheres with tailored pore structures for improved photothermal-chemotherapy

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 1 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61034-1• Jan 15, 2026

Comparative Studies on Nanocarbon-Modified Carbon Paper Electrodes for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Performance in Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

Authors: Jaeho Jo, Jaeeon Chang, Doohwan Lee

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are a promising technology for large-scale energy storage due to their scalability, safety, long cycling life, and decoupled power and energy capacities. However, the slow redox kinetics of vanadium species on conventional carbon electrodes limits their performance. This study investigates the deposition of carbon black (CB), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and electrochemically exfoliated graphene (Exf-Gr) onto thermally-activated carbon paper (ACP) via spray coating to enhance electrode electrocatalytic activity. Modified electrodes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and surface area analysis. Electrochemical properties were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and single-cell VRFB testing. Among the modified electrodes, Exf-Gr/ACP exhibited the best performance, achieving a 2.9-fold reduction in charge transfer resistance compared to pristine ACP and delivering 2.5 times the discharge capacity in single-cell tests. This improvement is attributed to Exf-Gr's high surface area, favorable catalytic activity, and excellent dispersion on the ACP substrate. Surface modification with electrochemically exfoliated graphene is a highly effective strategy for improving electrode performance in VRFB systems, with significant implications for large-scale energy storage.

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Comparative Studies on Nanocarbon-Modified Carbon Paper Electrodes for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Performance in Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61065-7• Jan 15, 2026

Carbon nanotube-based materials as capacitive deionization electrodes

Authors: WANG Xiaomei

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

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Carbon nanotube-based materials as capacitive deionization electrodes

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61071-2• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: LIU Shuyuan, TIAN Zhen, WANG Yanzhong, ZHOU Rui, ZHENG Zhichao

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61070-0• Jan 15, 2026

Recent advances in the characterization and applications of biochar and hydrochar

Authors: Bruna Rijo, Ana Paula Soares Dias

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

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Recent advances in the characterization and applications of biochar and hydrochar

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(25)61036-5• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: ZHANG Yuanyuan, MAI Jianbin, CHEN Wei, ZHANG Wenlong, LIU Jing, LIAO Huaping, AN Junwei, WANG Jionghui, HUANG Dongmei, LV Wei, DU Hongda, KANG Feiyu

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.

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61068-2• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Su Yanxia, Zhang Xiuhai, Qiu Yuqian, Ban Miaohan, Zhang Jinbo, Li Chong, Xu Fei, Wang Hongqiang

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61074-8• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Habtamu F Etefa, Francis B. Dejene

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61066-9• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Huang Fei, Wu Peikun, Wang Chang, Zhang Min, Wang Zhongliao, Liu Qiangchun, Kong Xiangkai

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61073-6• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Rakesh Reghunath, Dileep P, Mehar Al Minnath, Unnikrishnan T G, Soney C George, Nandakumar Kalarikkal, Murali K P, Jinu Paul

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61072-4• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Man Xiaoge, Huang Xinli, Min Xinyue, Yan Yijie, Shi Yuanchang, Li Tao, Wang Chengxiang, Zhang Zhiwei, Yin Longwei, Wang Rutao

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.

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 2 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61067-0• Jan 15, 2026

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

Authors: Li Fuhu, You Jing, Zhang Qianyu, Zhang Ye, Rong Junfeng

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

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

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 3 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61069-4• Jan 15, 2026

Discontinuous ablation behavior of four-directional dual-matrix C/C composites under dual-pulse solid rocket motors

Authors: Wei Lianfeng, Wang Running, Zhang Jiaping, Li Kezhi, Cui Hong

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.

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Discontinuous ablation behavior of four-directional dual-matrix C/C composites under dual-pulse solid rocket motors

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61091-8• Jan 15, 2026

A review of carbon-based quantum dots for interfacial photocatalysis

Authors: Huang Jian, Ke Baoyi, Hu Huawen

Carbon-based quantum dots (C-QDs) have attracted growing attention in photocatalysis because of their tunable surface chemistry, unique electronic structure, and ability to regulate interfacial charge transfer. In recent years, their role has moved beyond that of simple light absorbers or general performance enhancers, and they are increasingly regarded as engineered interfacial components that can control charge separation, reaction-site microenvironments, and product selectivity. However, the broad claim that C-QDs improve photocatalytic performance often lacks clear mechanistic validation, which limits the ability to compare and reproduce reported studies. Recent advances in C-QD-based photocatalysis are reviewed with particular attention to the experimental evidence supporting their proposed roles and mechanisms. Three roles are considered: (a) electron sinks or charge reservoirs, (b) interfacial bridges or charge-transfer conduits, and (c) adsorption or microenvironment modulators. The evidence needed to support these assignments is then discussed, including measurements of band energetics and carrier dynamics, characterization of interfacial coupling, identification of reaction intermediates under working conditions, isotope-labeling experiments, and carbon balance analysis. Representative applications in hydrogen evolution, CO2 photoreduction, and pollutant degradation/photo-enhanced advanced oxidation processes are also analyzed to clarify how C-QD roles should be matched with reaction-specific metrics. Finally, the review identifies several recurring problems that hinder mechanistic interpretation and comparison between studies: C-QDs are often assigned different functions without sufficient evidence; Z-scheme and S-scheme labels are sometimes used without directly verifying the proposed charge-transfer pathways; reaction intermediates and catalyst behavior are not always examined under actual reaction conditions; and photocatalytic performance is reported using inconsistent metrics and test conditions. This review aims to provide practical guidance for building reliable structure–function relationships and for designing next-generation C-QD-based photocatalysts with clearer mechanisms, stronger reproducibility, and greater application potential.

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A review of carbon-based quantum dots for interfacial photocatalysis

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61097-9• Jan 15, 2026

Progress in the Preparation of Silicon/Carbon Composites for Use as Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Authors: ZHANG Lei, PENG Yuhua, ZHAO Liping, LUO Yu

Silicon/carbon (Si/C) composites are promising anode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because they mitigate the severe volume expansion and poor electrical conductivity of pure silicon anodes. This review systematically summarizes the state-of-the-art preparation methods for Si/C composites, including ball milling, spray drying, electrostatic spinning, and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Structural engineering strategies, such as carbon precursor coating, silicon-precursor-based wet chemistry, and silicon surface modification, are critically assessed for their effectiveness in enhancing electrical conductivity, buffering volume changes, and improving overall electrochemical performance. The review highlights that while Si offers a theoretical capacity of 4200 mAh g−1, far exceeding graphite's 372 mAh g−1, its practical application is hindered by capacity fading and low initial coulombic efficiency. The integration of carbon matrices not only provides mechanical flexibility but also facilitates electron transport. Key performance metrics from recent studies, including specific capacities exceeding 1000 mAh g−1 and improved cycling stability over hundreds of cycles, are discussed. The review also addresses the challenges of scalable production and cost-effectiveness, emphasizing the need for optimized precursor selection and processing parameters. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on the rational design of hierarchical structures and the development of novel binders to further enhance the long-term durability of Si/C anodes. This comprehensive overview serves as a valuable resource for researchers and engineers aiming to advance the commercialization of high-energy-density LIBs.

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Progress in the Preparation of Silicon/Carbon Composites for Use as Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61094-3• Jan 15, 2026

Progress in Iodine Host Materials for Aqueous Zinc-Iodine Batteries: From Physical Confinement, Chemical Adsorption to Electrocatalysis

Authors: DONG Tianyi, SHI Huifa, ZHANG Fan, DONG Chunwei, ZHU Xiaoyang, LAN Hongbo, HUANG Zhenghong

Aqueous zinc-iodine (Zn-I2) batteries are promising for large-scale energy storage due to their intrinsic safety, low cost, and high theoretical capacity (211 mAh g−1 for iodine). However, their practical application is hindered by the poor electronic conductivity of iodine, sluggish redox kinetics, and the shuttle effect of polyiodides. This review systematically analyzes the reaction mechanisms of iodine cathodes, including two-electron (I−/I2) and multi-electron (I−/I2/I+ and I−/I2/I+/IO3−) pathways, and identifies key bottlenecks. It then comprehensively summarizes recent advances in iodine host materials, categorized into three strategies: physical confinement, chemical adsorption, and electrocatalysis. Representative host materials such as porous carbons, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs), polymers, MXenes, and Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) are discussed, with emphasis on the structure–performance relationships. The review highlights that heteroatom doping (e.g., nitrogen) enhances chemical adsorption of iodine species, while single-atom catalysts (e.g., Co, Zn) provide electrocatalytic sites that accelerate conversion kinetics. Finally, future research directions are proposed, including exploration of multi-electron systems, mechanistic elucidation of iodine conversion, development of advanced host materials, and optimization of zinc anodes, to accelerate the commercialization of Zn-I2 batteries.

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Progress in Iodine Host Materials for Aqueous Zinc-Iodine Batteries: From Physical Confinement, Chemical Adsorption to Electrocatalysis

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61117-1• Jan 15, 2026

Progress on graphite-based bipolar plates for use in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Authors: Wang Dengke, Lu Wei, Yang Peiyong, Chai Maorong

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.

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Progress on graphite-based bipolar plates for use in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61107-9• Jan 15, 2026

CVD Graphene on Iron, Iron Alloys, and Nanoparticles: A Review of Its Growth, Characterization, Applications, and Challenges

Authors: Suriya Narayanan Ramasubramanian, Justina Teye, Hema Ramsurn

Graphene's exceptional electrical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties render it promising for electronics, energy storage, protective coatings, catalysis, and environmental remediation. However, large-scale adoption is hindered by high synthesis costs, process complexities, and integration issues. Among production methods, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on metals is the most scalable, with copper widely used due to its low carbon solubility and excellent monolayer control. Yet, Cu substrates are costly ($8–10/kg), transfer steps introduce defects, and the resulting graphene is poorly matched to structural components. Iron-based substrates offer an attractive alternative, providing much lower material cost, direct compatibility with steel infrastructure, reduced growth temperatures, and intrinsic functionalities such as magnetism and catalytic activity, enabling new applications. This review analyzes graphene growth on pure iron, iron alloys, and iron-based nanoparticles, focusing on growth mechanisms, substrate engineering, and characterization approaches tailored to challenges like carbide formation. Applications including corrosion-resistant coatings, electronics, energy storage, catalysis, water treatment, and electromagnetic shielding are considered. Despite the limitation of high carbon solubility, iron can be exploited for controlled multilayer formation useful for barrier and energy applications, while alloying and process control enable tunable monolayer or few-layer films, making iron-based CVD graphene a versatile, cost-effective platform.

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CVD Graphene on Iron, Iron Alloys, and Nanoparticles: A Review of Its Growth, Characterization, Applications, and Challenges

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61109-2• Jan 15, 2026

Changing the carbon framework to produce low-expansion silicon-carbon composites for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Authors: Ye Lin, Huang Qiang, Peng Gongchang, Tian Guilei, Bai Hongyou, Zhou Xiaoqing, Wang Junkuo

Silicon-carbon (Si/C) composites are promising high-capacity anode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries, but their commercialization is hindered by severe volume expansion during cycling. We report a chemical vapor deposition method using the pyrolysis of silane, in which ultrafine nano-Si enters a porous carbon framework to produce kilogram-scale Si/C composites. The carbon framework with abundant micropores (~1.9 nm) confines the amorphous silicon and accommodates the volume changes of nano-Si during both lithiation and de-lithiation. The resulting Si/C composites have a 56.76% Si content and have a specific capacity of 2179 mAh g–1, a high initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) of 93.5%, and a low specific surface area (1.32 m2 g–1). In addition to the nanoconfinement effect, the median particle size (D50, 7.3-13.0 μm) of the carbon framework was shown to control the mechanical strength, coating uniformity and Li+ transport. A D50 of 8.2 μm endows the Si/C composites with outstanding comprehensive properties. They have an excellent rate performance with a 97.0% retention at 3 C relative to 0.1 C, show only minor variations in ICE difference at 60 ℃/-20 ℃ compared with room temperature, and have a low expansion of 35.8% from the delithiated to the lithiated state. The composite was then mixed with graphite to prepare the anode, which was then paired with an NCM523 cathode to assemble pouch cells. The pouch cell retained 87.46% of its initial capacity after 1000 cycles at 1 C. Because of the low expansion of the electrode, the material avoids structural degradation during cycling and thus has an excellent long-term stability.

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Changing the carbon framework to produce low-expansion silicon-carbon composites for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61100-6• Jan 15, 2026

Spore-derived porous carbon with tailored heteroatom doping for anode of sodium-ion capacitors

Authors: Wang Yiming, Qiu Kerou, Yu Haidong, Hou Zhiqiang, Chen Haotian, Cheng Jiahao, Zhang Yabin, Zhu Jinliang, Zou Bingsuo

Sodium-ion capacitors (SICs) are attractive for low-cost and safe energy storage, but their practical development is limited by sluggish Na+ storage kinetics and structural instability of anodes. Control of both bulk structure and surface chemistry can address these limitations. We report a heteroatom-rich porous carbon (HRPC) derived from spores via hydrothermal pretreatment, low-temperature carbonization, and acid-mediated functionalization. The optimized GLSHC-HNO3 anode exhibits hierarchical porosity and multi-element co-doping, enabling rapid ion/electron transport, improved electrolyte wettability, and abundant Na+ adsorption sites. Density functional theory calculations reveal distinct contributions of different heteroatom configurations to sodium adsorption. The HRPC anode delivers an ultrahigh reversible capacity of 446.1 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1, retains 237.3 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1, and shows excellent cycling stability. A full SIC with a polyaniline-derived porous carbon cathode achieves an energy density of 114.4 Wh kg−1 at 290 W kg−1, 43.1 Wh kg−1 at 1450 W kg−1, and a maximum power density of 5800 W kg−1, with 84.3% capacity retention after 5000 cycles and nearly 100% Coulombic efficiency. This work establishes a scalable, sustainable route for converting biomass into high-value carbon anodes, providing a new pathway for high-performance sodium-ion energy storage.

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Spore-derived porous carbon with tailored heteroatom doping for anode of sodium-ion capacitors

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61113-4• Jan 15, 2026

Revealing Abnormal Micro- and Meso-Structure Evolution Mechanism of Porous Pyrolytic Carbon in TRISO Coated Fuel Particles under High-Temperature Treatment

Authors: Lei Jinhong, Yang Xu, Cheng Xing, Yang Hui, Zhang Kaihong, Yu Hao, Liu Xiaoxue, Zhao Hongsheng, Liu Bing

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.

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Revealing Abnormal Micro- and Meso-Structure Evolution Mechanism of Porous Pyrolytic Carbon in TRISO Coated Fuel Particles under High-Temperature Treatment

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61101-8• Jan 15, 2026

Single-atom iron catalysts on defect-rich nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets for efficient phenol degradation via peroxydisulfate activation

Authors: WANG Ruixue, QIU Zihan, ZHANG Runmeng, LENG Changyu, WANG Xuzhen, QIU Jieshan

Phenolic compounds are typical refractory organic pollutants in coal chemical coking wastewater, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health. Conventional treatment methods are inefficient, necessitating advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). Here, we report a low-cost Fe/N–C catalyst synthesized from coal-tar pitch, a common by-product of the coal chemical industry, via a self-assembly and pyrolysis strategy using graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) as a template and nitrogen source, with dicyandiamide as an auxiliary nitrogen source and FeCl3·6H2O as the iron precursor. The resulting nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets possess abundant defects (sp3-C/sp2-C = 0.66) and atomically dispersed iron species. The Fe/N–C catalyst exhibits outstanding catalytic activity for peroxydisulfate (PDS) activation, achieving over 98% phenol degradation within 30 minutes and a 60% total organic carbon (TOC) removal rate. Mechanistic studies, including radical quenching and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments, reveal that both radical and non-radical pathways contribute to phenol degradation, with singlet oxygen (1O2) as the primary reactive oxygen species. Electrochemical analyses demonstrate that atomically dispersed Fe sites significantly enhance interfacial electron transfer. Post-reaction characterization indicates the consumption of pyrrolic-N, C=O, and carbon defects as active sites, while graphitic-N and Fe–N structures remain stable, confirming the catalyst's stability. This work provides an economical route to convert coal-tar pitch into high-performance catalytic materials for efficient water treatment, embodying the circular economy concept of waste-to-resource utilization.

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Single-atom iron catalysts on defect-rich nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets for efficient phenol degradation via peroxydisulfate activation

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61093-1• Jan 15, 2026

A platinum catalyst with hierarchical porosity supported on a honeycomb-like nitrogen-doped carbon for excellent oxygen reduction reaction performance

Authors: Fu Dongju, Chen Zerui, Hu Zhao, Wang Nan, Xun Jinghui, Zhang Lunqiao, Lin Zexi, Liu Weifeng, Yu Xiao, Liu Xuguang

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.

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A platinum catalyst with hierarchical porosity supported on a honeycomb-like nitrogen-doped carbon for excellent oxygen reduction reaction performance

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61103-1• Jan 15, 2026

A Bidirectionally Frozen Carbon Aerogel Reinforced by Tetrapod ZnO Bridges for High-Performance Pressure Sensing

Authors: Wang Yichen, Suo Fang, Ben Yihang, Guo Rui, Yao Yongtao, Liu Zhenbo

Flexible pressure sensors that simultaneously achieve high sensitivity, mechanical strength, and long-term stability remain challenging, particularly for biomass-derived carbon aerogels that are intrinsically brittle and prone to structural collapse. Here, we report a bidirectionally frozen carbon aerogel reinforced with tetrapod ZnO whiskers (T-ZnOWs) for high-performance pressure sensing. The aerogel is composed of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets (NCs), and T-ZnOWs, which are reorganized into a mechanically stable, parallel lamellar structure via bidirectional freezing. T-ZnOWs act as rigid interlayer pillars, bridging adjacent carbon lamellae to form a 'layer-support' structure that enables efficient directional stress transfer, suppresses interlayer slippage, and promotes cooperative deformation. The nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets introduce defect-rich conductive paths, enhancing piezoresistive response. Due to modulus mismatch between the supports and carbon layers, applied stress concentrates at layer/support interfaces, generating localized high-stress regions that amplify electrical signal changes. The aerogel is infiltrated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to form a conformal elastic encapsulating layer, improving durability. The resulting sensor exhibits a high gauge factor of 34.4, an ultrahigh sensitivity of 248.41 kPa−1 over a broad pressure range (0–19 kPa), fast response (24 ms) and recovery (69 ms) times, and stable operation over 5000 loading–unloading cycles. The sensor reliably detects physiological signals and joint motions, demonstrating potential for wearable and intelligent sensing applications. This work provides a strategy to improve the mechanical reliability and sensing performance of biomass-derived carbon aerogels.

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A Bidirectionally Frozen Carbon Aerogel Reinforced by Tetrapod ZnO Bridges for High-Performance Pressure Sensing

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61108-0• Jan 15, 2026

A Cu/Cu2O@C Composite Catalyst Derived from Wood-Chips for the Efficient One-Pot Oxidation of Cyclohexane to Adipic Acid

Authors: WANG Sheng, CHEN Zhijia, WANG Xiao, YUAN Chunhua, LI Songbo, YANG Huimin

Adipic acid is a key monomer for nylon-6,6 and nylon-6, yet its industrial production via nitric acid oxidation of KA oil suffers from high energy consumption and N2O emissions. This study reports a green catalytic system for one-pot oxidation of cyclohexane to adipic acid using a Cu/Cu2O@C composite catalyst derived from wood chips. During pyrolysis, wood chips serve as both carbon support precursor and in-situ reducing agent, converting Cu2+ into Cu/Cu2O active species. The abundant defects in biomass carbon form strong coordination interactions with copper, regulating the electronic distribution of active sites and enhancing catalytic performance. Under optimized conditions (100 °C, 12 h), the Cu/[email protected] catalyst achieves a cyclohexane conversion of 19.36% and an adipic acid selectivity of 73.28%. Mechanistic studies reveal that the electronic interaction between the carbon support and copper species strengthens adsorption of cyclohexanone, promoting selective formation of adipic acid. The reaction follows a free radical chain mechanism involving hydroxyl and alkyl radicals. This work provides a viable strategy for developing eco-friendly, low-cost, and high-efficiency catalytic materials for industrial adipic acid synthesis.

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A Cu/Cu2O@C Composite Catalyst Derived from Wood-Chips for the Efficient One-Pot Oxidation of Cyclohexane to Adipic Acid

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61102-X• Jan 15, 2026

Improving the porous carbon matrix to suppress the formation of surface silicon for improved cycling stability

Authors: Yang Fei, Huang Qiang, Yi Zonglin, Ye Lin, Xie Lijing, Chen Jingpeng, Su Fangyuan

Silicon-carbon composites prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) are promising anode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. However, the influence of the pore structure of the porous carbon (PC) carrier on silicon deposition behavior, and the impact of surface silicon on cycling stability, remain unclear. This study systematically investigates these effects using nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Porous carbons with varying pore architectures were synthesized by adjusting KOH activator ratios. Results show that increased micropore volume facilitates higher silicon mass loading, but also elevates the content of surface floating silicon due to greater silane exposure. Moderately increasing mesopores in high-microporosity carbon promotes deeper silicon deposition, reducing surface floating silicon. Excessive surface floating silicon hinders lithium-ion diffusion kinetics, leading to accumulation of active lithium, accelerated SEI growth, and electrode degradation. Electrochemical testing reveals that the optimized silicon-carbon composite maintains a high specific capacity of 693.1 mAh/g after 150 cycles at 0.5 C (900 mA/g). This work provides new insights into the development and failure mechanisms of CVD-derived silicon-carbon composite anodes, emphasizing the critical role of pore structure in mitigating surface silicon and enhancing cycling stability.

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Improving the porous carbon matrix to suppress the formation of surface silicon for improved cycling stability

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61112-2• Jan 15, 2026

Hierarchically porous fibrous carbon containing Fe3O4 particles and doped with both N and S derived from polypyrrole modified lignosulphonate-bacterial cellulose for use in high performance supercapacitors

Authors: Kummara Madhusudana Rao, Sung Soo Han

The design of heteroatom-doped porous carbon materials integrated with metal oxide nanostructures has emerged as an efficient approach for improving the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors. A green and cost-effective method is reported for the fabrication of a hierarchical porous carbon composite from bacterial cellulose (BC), lignosulfonic acid (LS), and polypyrrole (PPy). LS serves as both an anchoring agent and a soft molecular template, directing the oxidative polymerization and uniform deposition of PPy onto the BC nanofibers in the presence of FeCl3 as the oxidizing agent. Subsequent carbonization under a nitrogen atmosphere results in the formation of an N/S co-doped carbon framework decorated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles, denoted C-BCLP. For comparison, a control composite consisting of BC and PPy without LS was carbonized to produce C-BCP. X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles and the preservation of the fibrous carbon structure. Electron microscopy shows that C-BCLP has a highly porous and conductive network with a homogeneous distribution of C, O, N, S, and Fe elements. Because of the combined effects of hierarchical porosity, heteroatom doping, and Fe3O4 incorporation, the C-BCLP electrode has high specific capacitances of 338.3 F g–1 at 1 A g–1 and 191.6 F g–1 at 10 A g–1. In addition, it has excellent cycling stability, retaining 99.1% of its initial capacitance after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles, outperforming the C-BCP electrode. The work suggests a promising way to develop next-generation high-performance supercapacitors.

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Hierarchically porous fibrous carbon containing Fe3O4 particles and doped with both N and S derived from polypyrrole modified lignosulphonate-bacterial cellulose for use in high performance supercapacitors

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61098-0• Jan 15, 2026

Tuning porosity and capacitance of laser-assisted grown graphene by controlled thermal annealing

Authors: Nikolaos Samartzis, Natalia Kantouni, Elli Bellou, Paraskevas Dimitropoulos, Labrini Sygellou, Athanassios Chrissanthopoulos, Spyros N. Yannopoulos

Laser-assisted grown graphene electrodes are promising for electrochemical energy storage, but their performance is limited by poorly controlled pore networks. This study demonstrates that a simple thermal post-treatment effectively tunes porosity and surface chemistry, significantly enhancing capacitive performance. Systematic variation of annealing temperature, dwell time, and atmosphere (air vs. inert) revealed that mild annealing in air up to 500 °C reduces oxygen-containing functionalities and increases the sp2/sp3 carbon ratio. Critically, specific surface area increased from 110 to 498 m² g⁻¹, with a broader pore-size distribution. These structural and chemical changes correlate with an almost order-of-magnitude increase in capacitance compared to untreated electrodes. The optimal condition—400 °C in air for 6 h—yielded electrodes retaining 92% of capacitance at a 25-fold current increase and 99% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles. Density functional theory (DFT) simulations support a buckling–unknotting mechanism, where metastable interlayer sp3 or C–O–C linkages relax into lower-energy, untied bilayer configurations, reopening pores. This laser-based fabrication combined with thermal annealing offers a scalable, chemical-free route to high-performance graphene electrodes, avoiding wet-chemical activation. The established structure–property relationships provide clear guidance for optimizing related porous carbon architectures.

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Tuning porosity and capacitance of laser-assisted grown graphene by controlled thermal annealing

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61106-7• Jan 15, 2026

Stabilization of Sulfur Species in Coal-Derived Hard Carbon via Micropore Confinement and Chemical Bonding for Enhanced Sodium Storage

Authors: Zhu Hong, Cui Yu, Han Qi, Li Cunhe, Zhou Rui, Chi Xiaoyu, Shen Yanfeng, Wang Meijun, Guo Chunli, Chang Liping

Hard carbon anodes for sodium-ion batteries suffer from limited capacity, low initial Coulombic efficiency, and poor long-term cycling stability. To address these issues, we report a dual-stabilization strategy that combines micropore confinement and chemical bonding to control sulfur species in coal-derived hard carbon. Bituminous coal, with its naturally condensed aromatic framework, serves as the carbon precursor. A two-step thermal process first constructs a microporous carbon framework, followed by gas-phase sulfidation to introduce sulfur. The sulfur is confined within micropores and forms stable covalent C–S bonds with the carbon matrix, providing synergistic physical–chemical stabilization. This suppresses sulfur migration, prevents interfacial side reactions, and introduces additional redox-active sites. The optimized sample (HC-10) delivers a high reversible capacity of 450 mAh/g after 800 cycles at a current density of 1 A/g, with excellent rate capability and cycling stability. Mechanistic analysis reveals that the stabilized sulfur species reversibly participate in sodium-ion storage and improve interfacial kinetics. This work provides an effective strategy for stabilizing sulfur in coal-derived carbon materials and offers insights into the design of high-performance anodes for sodium-ion batteries.

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Stabilization of Sulfur Species in Coal-Derived Hard Carbon via Micropore Confinement and Chemical Bonding for Enhanced Sodium Storage

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61104-3• Jan 15, 2026

Fluorination Regulates Heat Generation in Ah-Level Lithium/Fluorinated Carbon Pouch Cells

Authors: Xia Xixian, Li Yu, Sun Lidong, Peng Cong, Kong Lingchen, Wang Yong, Feng Wei

Lithium/fluorinated carbon (Li/CFx) batteries are among the most promising high-energy-density primary batteries, yet substantial heat generation during discharge poses safety concerns, particularly for high-mass-loaded pouch cells. This study systematically investigates the effects of fluorination temperature on the structure and kinetics of fluorinated porous carbon (FPC) cathodes and on heat generation in Ah-level Li/FPC pouch cells. FPC samples with varying degrees of fluorination were synthesized by adjusting fluorination temperature, which influenced not only the F/C ratio but also the C–F bonding configuration, pore structure, and electronic transport capability. Pouch cells employing more highly fluorinated cathodes generated the most heat during discharge, with heat generation exhibiting clear stage dependence, predominantly in the 0–20% depth of discharge (DOD) range. Post-discharge structural characterization and kinetic analysis revealed that highly fluorinated FPC cathodes (FPC-250) undergo more concentrated LiF accumulation, leading to higher charge-transfer resistance, stronger polarization, lower Li+ diffusivity, and higher nucleation overpotential. These factors collectively intensify early-stage heat generation. The study establishes a correlation between fluorination temperature and cathode structure, discharge-product evolution, discharge kinetics, and heat generation, demonstrating that regulating fluorination temperature is an effective strategy for improving the thermal safety of Li/CFx batteries.

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Fluorination Regulates Heat Generation in Ah-Level Lithium/Fluorinated Carbon Pouch Cells

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61116-X• Jan 15, 2026

A Standardized Dataset of Linear Sweep Voltammetry Curves for the Acidic Oxygen Reduction Reaction on Carbon-Supported Catalysts in Sulfuric Acid Medium

Authors: Zeng Zifeng, Zhao Zhenxin, Wang Meiling, Wang Xiaomin

A standardized dataset of linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) curves is presented for evaluating the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of carbon-supported catalysts in acidic media. All electrochemical tests were conducted in O2-saturated 0.5 mol L−1 H2SO4 at controlled rotation speeds using a rotating disk electrode. The dataset comprises 120 validated entries from both non-precious metal (MNC) and platinum-based (Pt-MC) catalysts, including original LSV curves and extracted performance parameters such as onset potential, half-wave potential, and limiting current densities at different rotation speeds. Data processing involved potential conversion to the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) scale, background subtraction, outlier removal, and reproducibility checks with defined quality control thresholds (relative standard deviation ≤2% for E1/2 and ≤5% for limiting current). The standardized collection serves as a reliable benchmark for catalyst performance comparison, supports kinetic and mass transport analysis, and provides a structured data source for machine learning applications in electrocatalysis. The dataset is openly available via Science Data Bank, with a DOI, and is intended as a dynamic resource for the ORR electrocatalysis community.

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A Standardized Dataset of Linear Sweep Voltammetry Curves for the Acidic Oxygen Reduction Reaction on Carbon-Supported Catalysts in Sulfuric Acid Medium

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Original ResearchVol. 41, Issue 4 • pp. 100-112DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(26)61099-2• Jan 15, 2026

A molecular dataset for the shear deformation of thermoplastic structural materials

Authors: Gao Yuzhao, Li Chaochao, Zhang Rui, Ma Yuanyuan, Lu Kuan

The first molecular dynamics (MD) simulation dataset is reported for the interfacial shear behavior of carbon fiber/thermoplastic composites (CFRTPs), aimed at overcoming the critical interfacial problem that limits their high-end applications such as aerospace and new energy vehicles. The study features two key advances. First, we use the newly developed CHONSi-2024 reactive force field (ReaxFF), which provides high-precision parameters specifically for CFRTP interfacial systems. Second, the atomic models are constructed based on experimental characterization data and rigorously validated across multiple parameters, including shear modulus, yield behavior, stress-strain curves, and fracture morphology, ensuring quantitative agreement with experimental results. This dataset provides a complete record of the simulations, encompassing atomic trajectories, local structural changes, interfacial stress-strain responses, and system thermodynamic behaviors. These data offer direct atomic-scale insights into the interfacial strengthening mechanisms. The generated trajectories are compatible with mainstream software for visualization and analysis. Moreover, the dataset constitutes a high-quality resource for developing machine learning force fields, building structure-property relationships, and enabling the predictive modeling and high-throughput screening of composite interfaces. This dataset is anticipated to advance the fundamental understanding of composite interfaces and facilitate the rational design of high-performance CFRTPs.

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A molecular dataset for the shear deformation of thermoplastic structural materials

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