Carbon Neutralization最新文献

To unveil the charge storage mechanisms and interface properties of electrode materials is very challenging for Na-ion storage. In this work, we report that the novel layered perovskite Bi₂TiO₄F₂@reduced graphene oxides (BTOF@rGO) serves as a promising anode for Na-ion storage in an ether-based electrolyte, which exhibits much better electrochemical performance than in an ester-based electrolyte. Interestingly, BTOF@rGO possesses a prominent specific capacity of 458.3–102 mAh g⁻¹/0.02–1 A g⁻¹ and a high initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) of 70.3%. Cross-sectional morphology and depth profile surface chemistry indicate not only a denser reactive interfacial layer but also a superior solid electrolyte interface film containing a higher proportion of inorganic components, which accelerates Na⁺ migration and is an essential factor for the improvement of ICE and other electrochemical properties. Electrochemical tests and ex situ measurements demonstrate the triple hybridization Na-ion storage mechanism of conversion, alloying, and intercalation for BTOF@rGO in the ether-based electrolyte. Furthermore, the Na-ion batteries assembled with the BTOF@rGO anode and the commercial Na₃V₂(PO₄)₂F₃@C cathode exhibit remarkable energy densities and power densities. Overall, the work shows deep insights on developing advanced electrode materials for efficient Na-ion storage.

Two-dimensional materials exhibit significant potential and wide-ranging application prospects owing to their remarkable tunability, pronounced quantum confinement effects, and notable surface sensitivity. The switching, optoelectronics, and gas-sensitive properties of the new carbon material poly-cyclooctatetraene framework (PCF)-graphene were systematically studied using density functional theory combined with the nonequilibrium Green's function method. First, the diode device based on PCF-graphene monolayer exhibited an impressive switching ratio of 10⁶, demonstrating excellent diode characteristics. Moreover, in the investigation of the pin junction utilizing monolayer PCF-graphene, it is noteworthy that significant photocurrent responses were observed in both the zigzag and armchair directions, specifically within the visible and ultraviolet regions. Finally, gas sensors employing monolayer and bilayer PCF-graphene demonstrate significant chemical adsorption capabilities for NO and NO₂. Notably, the maximum gas sensitivity for NO is achieved in monolayer PCF-graphene, reaching 322% at a bias voltage of 1.0 V. Meanwhile, for bilayer PCF-graphene-based gas sensor, the maximum gas sensitivity reaches 52% at a bias voltage of 0.4 V. In addition, the study also examined the influence of various environmental conditions, specifically H₂O, O, and OH, on the system under investigation. The obtained results emphasize the multifunctional properties of PCF-graphene, exhibiting significant potential for various applications, including switching devices, optoelectronic devices, and gas sensors.

Aqueous rechargeable zinc–iodine batteries have gained traction as a promising solution due to their suitable theoretical energy density, cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and safety features. However, challenges such as the polyiodide shuttle effect, low iodine cathode conductivity, zinc anode dendritic growth, and the requirement for efficient separators and electrolytes hinder their commercial prospects. Hence, this review highlights recent progress in refining the core optimization strategies of zinc–iodine batteries, focusing on enhancements to the cathode, anode, separator, and electrolyte. Cathode improvements involve the addition of inorganic, organic, and hybrid materials to counteract the shuttle effect and boost redox kinetics, where these functional materials also are applied in anode modifications to curb dendritic growth and enhance cycling stability. Meanwhile, cell separator design approaches that effectively block polyiodide shuttle while promoting uniform zinc deposition are also discussed, while electrolyte innovations target zinc corrosion and polyiodide dissolution. Ultimately, the review aims to map out a strategy for developing zinc–iodine batteries that are efficient, safe, and economical, aligning with the demands of contemporary energy storage.

Front cover image: By serving as conductive binders, active material hosts, current collectors, and even as components of separators and interlayers, MXenes have demonstrated their adaptability and multifunctionality in different battery chemistries. Their ability to mitigate issues like dendrite growth, shuttle effects, and poor mechanical stability have significant implications for extending battery lifespan, increasing energy density, and ensuring operational safety.

Back cover image: Currently, developing advanced energy storage and conversion systems is of great significance. In the review, the strategies for realizing high-performance anode-free rechargeable batteries enabled by interfacial regulation engineering are summarized, mainly including designing of current collector, introducing of surface coating layers, modification of electrolyte, separators engineering and cathode materials regulation.

Inside front cover image: The image is related to the recycling of chicken feathers, aiming to state the energy and environmental applications of materials derived from chicken feathers. In this image, the applications, such as battery, catalysis and architectural field, surround a chicken feather, demonstrating the application potential of chicken feather waste. Besides, the clear water and beautiful environment indicate the effectiveness of recycled chicken feathers in energy and environmental fields.

Photoelectrically coupling water splitting at high current density is a promising approach for the acquisition of green hydrogen energy. However, it places significant demands on the photo/electrocatalysts. Herein, rare earth elements doping NiMoO₄-based phosphorus/sulfide heterostructure nanorod arrays (RE-NiMo-PS@NF [RE = Y, Er, La, and Sc]) are obtained for solar-enhanced electrocatalytic water splitting at high current densities. The results of the experiment and density-functional theory studies illustrate that the Y element as a dopant not only makes the NiMoP₂/NiMo₃S₄/NiMoO₄ heterostructure exhibit excellent solar-enhanced electrocatalytic activity (hydrogen evolution reaction [HER]: η₁₀₀₀ = 211 mV, oxygen evolution reaction [OER]: η₁₀₀₀ = 367 mV) but also optimizes the heterostructure interfacial electron density distributions and HER free energy. In addition, Y-NiMo-PS@NF achieves 18.64% solar-to-hydrogen efficiency. This study not only provides a new way to synthesize heterostructure electrocatalysts but also inspires the application of solar enhancement strategies for high current density water splitting.

Photocatalysis is an environmentally friendly technology for the utilizations of solar energy and has garnered significant attention in both scientific and industrial sectors. Developing cost-effective semiconductive materials is the core issue in photocatalysis. Bismuth-based metal-organic frameworks (Bi-MOFs) have emerged as attractive candidates in various photocatalytic applications, and Bi-MOFs derivatives further expand and consolidate their promising potential in the realm of photocatalysis. Various modification strategies including in-situ tailoring or external doping, as well as meticulous design and selection of metal nodes and organic linkers allow for fine control over the surface multifunctionality in Bi-MOF-based and derived photocatalytic composites with adjustable energy band structures and enhanced photocatalytic performance. In this review, the recent progress in the synthesis of diverse Bi-MOFs-based materials, Bi-MOFs derivatives, and their Bi-containing semiconductive composites were systemically analyzed and reviewed. The state-of-the-art research progresses in the applications of Bi-MOFs and derivatives, as well as composites in photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production, photodegradation of organic pollutants, and photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction are comprehensively summarized. The relationships between structures, properties, and photocatalytic performance of Bi-based semiconductive composites are discussed in detail. In addition, the perspectives and future challenges on Bi-MOFs-based and derived materials for photocatalytic applications are also offered.

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) have been hailed as a promising hydrogen energy technology due to high energy conversion efficiency, zero carbon emission and the potential independence on scare and expensive noble metal electrocatalysts. A variety of platinum group metal (PGM)-free catalysts has been developed with superior catalytic performance to noble metal benchmarks toward cathodic oxygen reduction reactions (ORR). However, PGM electrocatalysts still dominate the anodic catalyst research because the kinetics of hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) are two or three orders of magnitude slower than in that acidic media. Therefore, it is urgently desirable to improve noble metal utilization efficiency and/or develop high-performance PGM-free electrocatalysts for HOR, thus promoting the real-world implementation of AEMFCs. In this review, the current research progress of electrocatalysts for HOR in alkaline media is summarized. We start with the discussion on the current HOR reaction mechanisms and existing controversies. Then, methodologies to improve the HOR performance are reviewed. Following these principles, the recently developed HOR electrocatalysts including PGM and PGM-free HOR electrocatalysts in alkaline media are systematically introduced. Finally, we put forward the challenges and prospects in the field of HOR catalysis.

Li metal batteries have been widely expected to break the energy-density limits of current Li-ion batteries, showing impressive prospects for the next-generation electrochemical energy storage system. Although much progress has been achieved in stabilizing the Li metal anode, the current Li electrode still lacks efficiency and safety. Moreover, a practical Li metal battery requires a thickness-controllable Li electrode to maximally balance the energy density and stability. However, due to the stickiness and fragile nature of Li metal, manufacturing Li ingot into thin electrodes from conventional approaches has historically remained challenging, limiting the sufficient utilization of energy density in Li metal batteries. Aiming at the practical application of Li metal anode, the current issues and their initiation mechanism are comprehensively summarized from the stability and processability perspectives. Recent advances in robust and ultra-thin Li metal anode are outlined from methodology innovation to provide an overall insight. Finally, challenges and prospective developments regarding this burgeoning field are critically discussed to afford future outlooks. With the development of advanced processing and modification technology, we are optimistic that a truly great leap will be achieved in the foreseeable future toward the industrial application of Li metal batteries.