Pub Date : 2025-05-27DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100886
Jiawang You , Wenxiang Wang , Xiaohuan Li , Yushi Xu , Jinjin He , Han Mao , Zheng Wei , Lianfeng Sun , Xiaoqing Chen , Yong Jun Li , Zheng Liu , Hang Wei , Mei Xue
With the rapid advancement of technology and the exponential growth of big data, the demand for high-performance memory devices intensifies. Non-volatile memories based on van der Waals materials garner significant attention due to their superior data retention and long-term storage capabilities. However, current floating-gate (FG) memories typically exhibit a memory window of less than 60 %, which limits data storage stability and device lifespan. Therefore, developing non-volatile FG memories with larger memory windows is crucial for modern digital technologies. In this work, we fabricate a non-volatile FG memory device based on a rhenium disulfide (ReS2)/hexagonal boron nitride (hBN)/multilayer graphene (MLG) heterostructure, ReS2 serves as the channel material, hBN acts as the tunneling dielectric, and multilayer graphene functions as the floating gate. Due to the high carrier mobility of ReS2 and the excellent charge storage and release capabilities of graphene, the device demonstrates a high on/off ratio (106) and outstanding long-term data retention (>1000 s). It also exhibits low programming current and the potential for multi-level storage applications. Most notably, the device achieves a significant memory window of 85.5 %, enabling enhanced charge storage capacity and improved stability. This performance is attributed to the effective charge injection and retention enabled by Fowler–Nordheim tunneling through the hBN tunneling barrier These exceptional properties support the realization of efficient and stable data storage, which paves the way for developing next-generation memory technologies.
{"title":"Ultra-large memory window for non-volatile memory based on ReS2/hBN/Multilayer Graphene heterojunction","authors":"Jiawang You , Wenxiang Wang , Xiaohuan Li , Yushi Xu , Jinjin He , Han Mao , Zheng Wei , Lianfeng Sun , Xiaoqing Chen , Yong Jun Li , Zheng Liu , Hang Wei , Mei Xue","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100886","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100886","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>With the rapid advancement of technology and the exponential growth of big data, the demand for high-performance memory devices intensifies. Non-volatile memories based on van der Waals materials garner significant attention due to their superior data retention and long-term storage capabilities. However, current floating-gate (FG) memories typically exhibit a memory window of less than 60 %, which limits data storage stability and device lifespan. Therefore, developing non-volatile FG memories with larger memory windows is crucial for modern digital technologies. In this work, we fabricate a non-volatile FG memory device based on a rhenium disulfide (ReS<sub>2</sub>)/hexagonal boron nitride (hBN)/multilayer graphene (MLG) heterostructure, ReS<sub>2</sub> serves as the channel material, hBN acts as the tunneling dielectric, and multilayer graphene functions as the floating gate. Due to the high carrier mobility of ReS<sub>2</sub> and the excellent charge storage and release capabilities of graphene, the device demonstrates a high on/off ratio (10<sup>6</sup>) and outstanding long-term data retention (>1000 s). It also exhibits low programming current and the potential for multi-level storage applications. Most notably, the device achieves a significant memory window of 85.5 %, enabling enhanced charge storage capacity and improved stability. This performance is attributed to the effective charge injection and retention enabled by Fowler–Nordheim tunneling through the hBN tunneling barrier These exceptional properties support the realization of efficient and stable data storage, which paves the way for developing next-generation memory technologies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100886"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144169624","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-26DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100891
Mohd. Shkir, Atif Mossad Ali
The creation of sophisticated S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts presents a pioneering approach to enhance pollutant degradation through improved charge separation and light absorption. This study introduces a novel 2D/3D BiOBr/TiO2 S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst designed to elevate the degradation efficiency of ciprofloxacin (CIP), an antibiotic contaminant, when exposed to natural sunlight. Characterization of the structure and morphology confirmed the successful integration of BiOBr nanosheets onto TiO2 nanoparticles, resulting in an optimized heterostructure. Both TiO2 and the BiOBr-modified TiO2 (BiOBr/TiO2) were synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method followed by a slow evaporation process. The BiOBr/TiO2 composite exhibited significantly enhanced visible-light absorption compared to pure TiO2, attributed to the light-absorbing properties of BiOBr and the effective formation of the S-scheme heterojunction. This configuration facilitated efficient charge separation, as demonstrated by photoluminescence (PL) quenching and decreased charge-transfer resistance observed in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analyses. The S-scheme mechanism enabled selective recombination of low-energy charge carriers while retaining high-energy electrons and holes, thus maximizing redox potential. Under sunlight irradiation, the BiOBr/TiO2 composite achieved an impressive 93 % photocatalytic degradation of CIP, significantly outperforming both standalone TiO2 and BiOBr. Trapping experiments highlighted the crucial roles of hydroxyl radicals (•OH−) and superoxide radicals (•O2−) as reactive species driving the degradation process. This research underscores the substantial potential of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts for advanced wastewater treatment applications, offering a sustainable and effective solution to environmental remediation challenges.
{"title":"Novel 2D/3D BiOBr/TiO2 S-scheme heterostructures photocatalyst fabrication for remarkable ciprofloxacin degradation under solar light","authors":"Mohd. Shkir, Atif Mossad Ali","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100891","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100891","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The creation of sophisticated S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts presents a pioneering approach to enhance pollutant degradation through improved charge separation and light absorption. This study introduces a novel 2D/3D BiOBr/TiO<sub>2</sub> S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst designed to elevate the degradation efficiency of ciprofloxacin (CIP), an antibiotic contaminant, when exposed to natural sunlight. Characterization of the structure and morphology confirmed the successful integration of BiOBr nanosheets onto TiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles, resulting in an optimized heterostructure. Both TiO<sub>2</sub> and the BiOBr-modified TiO<sub>2</sub> (BiOBr/TiO<sub>2</sub>) were synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method followed by a slow evaporation process. The BiOBr/TiO<sub>2</sub> composite exhibited significantly enhanced visible-light absorption compared to pure TiO<sub>2</sub>, attributed to the light-absorbing properties of BiOBr and the effective formation of the S-scheme heterojunction. This configuration facilitated efficient charge separation, as demonstrated by photoluminescence (PL) quenching and decreased charge-transfer resistance observed in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analyses. The S-scheme mechanism enabled selective recombination of low-energy charge carriers while retaining high-energy electrons and holes, thus maximizing redox potential. Under sunlight irradiation, the BiOBr/TiO<sub>2</sub> composite achieved an impressive 93 % photocatalytic degradation of CIP, significantly outperforming both standalone TiO<sub>2</sub> and BiOBr. Trapping experiments highlighted the crucial roles of hydroxyl radicals (•OH<sup>−</sup>) and superoxide radicals (•O<sub>2</sub><sup>−</sup>) as reactive species driving the degradation process. This research underscores the substantial potential of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts for advanced wastewater treatment applications, offering a sustainable and effective solution to environmental remediation challenges.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100891"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144169623","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hydroxyapatite (HA) exhibits multifunctionality and wide applications in biological tissues such as vertebrate bones and teeth, due to facial element substitutions and chemical modifications of active surfaces in crystal structures with various inorganic or organic additives. It is a challenge to achieve biocompatible scaffolds that combine both high strength and toughness for the repair and regeneration of bone and tooth defects. In this study, we developed ZnO-modified hydroxyapatite 3D scaffolds with microscopic directional pore structures (∼20 μm) using a directional freezing-assisted direct-ink-writing (DIW) 3D printing technique. The directional pore microstructure significantly enhanced the mechanical properties compared to the non-directional scaffolds. Moreover, both experimental and molecular dynamics simulation results demonstrated that the incorporation of ZnO nanoparticles improved the sintering process, maintaining the directional pore microstructure while significantly increasing the mechanical strength. Notably, the coated hydroxyapatite scaffolds demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity with ∼99 % antimicrobial resistance and biocompatibility with ∼89.96 % cell survival. This study presents an innovative approach for constructing directional porous hydroxyapatite scaffolds with multifunctionality and high mechanical properties, providing a promising foundation for advancements in dental restoration, implantable medical devices, and bone tissue engineering.
{"title":"3D printing of ZnO-modified hydroxyapatite scaffolds with directional pore microstructure for enhanced mechanical properties and biocompatibility","authors":"Xianglin Zhou , Wenya Zhou , Xiaolei Xie , Hongwei Chen , Mengli Li , Xu Zhen , Jing Ma , Zhiyang Lyu","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100890","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100890","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Hydroxyapatite (HA) exhibits multifunctionality and wide applications in biological tissues such as vertebrate bones and teeth, due to facial element substitutions and chemical modifications of active surfaces in crystal structures with various inorganic or organic additives. It is a challenge to achieve biocompatible scaffolds that combine both high strength and toughness for the repair and regeneration of bone and tooth defects. In this study, we developed ZnO-modified hydroxyapatite 3D scaffolds with microscopic directional pore structures (∼20 μm) using a directional freezing-assisted direct-ink-writing (DIW) 3D printing technique. The directional pore microstructure significantly enhanced the mechanical properties compared to the non-directional scaffolds. Moreover, both experimental and molecular dynamics simulation results demonstrated that the incorporation of ZnO nanoparticles improved the sintering process, maintaining the directional pore microstructure while significantly increasing the mechanical strength. Notably, the coated hydroxyapatite scaffolds demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity with ∼99 % antimicrobial resistance and biocompatibility with ∼89.96 % cell survival. This study presents an innovative approach for constructing directional porous hydroxyapatite scaffolds with multifunctionality and high mechanical properties, providing a promising foundation for advancements in dental restoration, implantable medical devices, and bone tissue engineering.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100890"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144135081","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-21DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100889
Chen Zhang, Tao Wang, Jinjue Zeng, Xuebin Wang
Potassium-ion batteries are an attractive replacement for lithium-ion batteries due to their abundance and economic viability. Nevertheless, its practical implementation is considerably obstructed by the inadequate electrochemical performance of carbonaceous anodes. A nitrogen/sulfur co-doped hard carbon (NSHC) material is synthesized via a straightforward pyrolysis process, employing phenolic resin and trithiocyanuric acid as the carbon and dopant precursors, respectively. Comprehensive structural analysis demonstrates that the dual-heteroatom co-doping effectively enlarges the interlayer distance and introduces substantial defects, both of which promote rapid potassium-ion diffusion and improve potassium-ion storage capability. Consequently, this optimized NSHC anode delivers exceptional electrochemical performance, including a capacity of 649.5 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and a capacity of 100.1 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1, outperforming that of the undoped hard carbon (HC) counterpart. This work illuminates the structure-property relationship about heteroatom-doped carbon, providing a strategic framework for advanced PIB anode design.
钾离子电池因其丰富和经济可行性而成为锂离子电池的有吸引力的替代品。然而,由于碳质阳极的电化学性能不足,其实际应用受到了很大的阻碍。以酚醛树脂和三硫氰尿酸为碳前驱体和掺杂前驱体,采用直接热解法合成了氮/硫共掺杂硬碳(NSHC)材料。综合结构分析表明,双杂原子共掺杂有效地扩大了层间距离,引入了大量缺陷,促进了钾离子的快速扩散,提高了钾离子的储存能力。因此,这种优化的NSHC阳极具有优异的电化学性能,包括在0.1 a g−1时的容量为649.5 mAh g−1,在10 a g−1时的容量为100.1 mAh g−1,优于未掺杂的硬碳(HC)阳极。这项工作阐明了杂原子掺杂碳的结构-性能关系,为先进的PIB阳极设计提供了战略框架。
{"title":"Structural engineering of N/S co-doped hard carbon anodes for enhanced potassium storage performance","authors":"Chen Zhang, Tao Wang, Jinjue Zeng, Xuebin Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100889","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100889","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Potassium-ion batteries are an attractive replacement for lithium-ion batteries due to their abundance and economic viability. Nevertheless, its practical implementation is considerably obstructed by the inadequate electrochemical performance of carbonaceous anodes. A nitrogen/sulfur co-doped hard carbon (NSHC) material is synthesized <em>via</em> a straightforward pyrolysis process, employing phenolic resin and trithiocyanuric acid as the carbon and dopant precursors, respectively. Comprehensive structural analysis demonstrates that the dual-heteroatom co-doping effectively enlarges the interlayer distance and introduces substantial defects, both of which promote rapid potassium-ion diffusion and improve potassium-ion storage capability. Consequently, this optimized NSHC anode delivers exceptional electrochemical performance, including a capacity of 649.5 mAh g<sup>−1</sup> at 0.1 A g<sup>−1</sup> and a capacity of 100.1 mAh g<sup>−1</sup> at 10 A g<sup>−1</sup>, outperforming that of the undoped hard carbon (HC) counterpart. This work illuminates the structure-property relationship about heteroatom-doped carbon, providing a strategic framework for advanced PIB anode design.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100889"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144125254","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-19DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100888
Yongfeng Bu , Yuman Li , Shihao Wang , Shengda Tang , Zhaomin Zhu , Li Pan , Hui Li , Hongyu Liang
The development of low-internal-resistance and high-stability Al current collectors suitable for supercapacitor organic electrolytes has been desired due to the highly susceptible oxidative passivation problem. Existing solution strategies mainly focus on traditional modification techniques such as carbon-based coatings and surface roughness modulation, making them significantly deficient in terms of interfacial impedance compatibility and electrochemical stability. Herein, an innovative interfacial work function matching strategy utilizing MXene (Ti3C2Tx) as a transition layer material is first reported to address these concerns. Using a simple self-assembly method, we constructed an MXene transition layer (Al@MX) on the Al surface, which reduces the equivalent series resistance by more than 80 % and effectively improves capacitance retention from 7 % for bare Al to 61 % for Al@MX after 1000 cycles, as well as remarkable cycling stability. More importantly, the solid-solid interfacial electron transport barrier between Al current collector and YP50F active carbon material is significantly reduced by 24.7 %. These experimental results fully demonstrate that the proposed strategy effectively inhibits the oxidation of the Al current collector and suppresses the decay of capacitance. The unique two-dimensional structure of MXene, combined with its excellent electrochemical stability, offers a potential solution to match the work function of interfacial materials such as between the Al current collector and the carbon active material. This insight in the internal resistance reduction lays a critical technological foundation for developing high-performance SCs, and highlights the potential of MXene in enhancing the charge transfer and storage efficiency of energy storage devices.
{"title":"Improvement of solid-solid interface compatibility and capacitance retention of carbon electrode systems by using MXene as a transition layer","authors":"Yongfeng Bu , Yuman Li , Shihao Wang , Shengda Tang , Zhaomin Zhu , Li Pan , Hui Li , Hongyu Liang","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100888","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100888","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The development of low-internal-resistance and high-stability Al current collectors suitable for supercapacitor organic electrolytes has been desired due to the highly susceptible oxidative passivation problem. Existing solution strategies mainly focus on traditional modification techniques such as carbon-based coatings and surface roughness modulation, making them significantly deficient in terms of interfacial impedance compatibility and electrochemical stability. Herein, an innovative interfacial work function matching strategy utilizing MXene (Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub>x</sub>) as a transition layer material is first reported to address these concerns. Using a simple self-assembly method, we constructed an MXene transition layer (Al@MX) on the Al surface, which reduces the equivalent series resistance by more than 80 % and effectively improves capacitance retention from 7 % for bare Al to 61 % for Al@MX after 1000 cycles, as well as remarkable cycling stability. More importantly, the solid-solid interfacial electron transport barrier between Al current collector and YP50F active carbon material is significantly reduced by 24.7 %. These experimental results fully demonstrate that the proposed strategy effectively inhibits the oxidation of the Al current collector and suppresses the decay of capacitance. The unique two-dimensional structure of MXene, combined with its excellent electrochemical stability, offers a potential solution to match the work function of interfacial materials such as between the Al current collector and the carbon active material. This insight in the internal resistance reduction lays a critical technological foundation for developing high-performance SCs, and highlights the potential of MXene in enhancing the charge transfer and storage efficiency of energy storage devices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100888"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144114860","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-17DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100887
Jiahuan Chen , Yuxin Deng , Ranran Cao , Ping Wang , Yanhua Mao , Chengxue Yi , Siqiao Zhang , Tingting Zhang , Xiang Liu
Phosphorus (P), a well-established solid solution strengthening agent, can induce significant lattice distortions in metallic systems. The movement of dislocations in metals is obstructed, leading to improved ductility and toughness. Nickel‑phosphorus coatings, such as NiP, Ni-Co-P, Ni-W-P, and Ni-P-TiO₂ composites, exhibit exceptional mechanical performance and excellent corrosion resistance. Thus, Ni-P-based coatings are widely employed in various industrial sectors, including petrochemical processing, mechanical components, and medical devices. With the advancement of emerging manufacturing technologies, growing demands for advanced surface engineering have driven the development of diverse innovative high-performance phosphorus-containing coatings. Utilizing electroless deposition and electroplating techniques, we have developed novel anodized electroplating and sol-reinforced composite electroplating approaches. Nickel‑phosphorus coatings fabricated via anodic electroplating and sol-enhanced composite electroplating techniques demonstrate exceptional mechanical properties and anti-corrosion performance. The paper presents a comprehensive review of the structure-property relationships in novel nickel‑phosphorus coatings. It also focuses on the friction and corrosion mechanisms of NiP composite coatings and outlines promising research directions for future advancement and commercialization.
{"title":"Phosphorus-containing nickel-based coatings for enhanced corrosion resistance and mechanical performance: A review","authors":"Jiahuan Chen , Yuxin Deng , Ranran Cao , Ping Wang , Yanhua Mao , Chengxue Yi , Siqiao Zhang , Tingting Zhang , Xiang Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100887","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100887","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Phosphorus (P), a well-established solid solution strengthening agent, can induce significant lattice distortions in metallic systems. The movement of dislocations in metals is obstructed, leading to improved ductility and toughness. Nickel‑phosphorus coatings, such as Ni<img>P, Ni-Co-P, Ni-W-P, and Ni-P-TiO₂ composites, exhibit exceptional mechanical performance and excellent corrosion resistance. Thus, Ni-P-based coatings are widely employed in various industrial sectors, including petrochemical processing, mechanical components, and medical devices. With the advancement of emerging manufacturing technologies, growing demands for advanced surface engineering have driven the development of diverse innovative high-performance phosphorus-containing coatings. Utilizing electroless deposition and electroplating techniques, we have developed novel anodized electroplating and sol-reinforced composite electroplating approaches. Nickel‑phosphorus coatings fabricated via anodic electroplating and sol-enhanced composite electroplating techniques demonstrate exceptional mechanical properties and anti-corrosion performance. The paper presents a comprehensive review of the structure-property relationships in novel nickel‑phosphorus coatings. It also focuses on the friction and corrosion mechanisms of Ni<img>P composite coatings and outlines promising research directions for future advancement and commercialization.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100887"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144114861","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-16DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100878
Mario Flores Salazar , Christian Mateo Frausto-Avila , Miguel Ángel Hernández-Vázquez , Victor Arellano-Arreola , Barbara A. Muñiz Martínez , Marisol Mayorga-Garay , Erik Díaz-Cervantes , Andrés De Luna Bugallo
In this study, we explore the phase-selective synthesis of MoTe₂ through alkali-chalcogen exchange in MoS₂ crystals, facilitated by two alkali compounds: NaOH and KBr. The aim is to achieve the structural transformation from 2H-MoS₂ to 2H-MoTe₂ by atomic substitution of sulfur with tellurium. Our results demonstrate that at 500 °C, NaOH induces an uneven formation of both the 1 T’ and 2H phases of MoTe₂, whereas at 750 °C, KBr promotes the exclusive and homogeneous formation of the 2H phase. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the resulting crystals. The KBr-assisted method results in a more uniform phase transition with higher crystallinity and better stability compared to the NaOH-assisted method, which also induces the formation of oxide and NaO interaction. This study proposes a reaction pathway for KBr assisted process and highlights the advantages of KBr in achieving 2H phase-pure MoTe₂ through density functional theory calculations, which could create new opportunities for research in material engineering and its use in optoelectronic devices.
{"title":"Phase-selective synthesis of 2H-MoTe₂ via alkali-chalcogen exchange","authors":"Mario Flores Salazar , Christian Mateo Frausto-Avila , Miguel Ángel Hernández-Vázquez , Victor Arellano-Arreola , Barbara A. Muñiz Martínez , Marisol Mayorga-Garay , Erik Díaz-Cervantes , Andrés De Luna Bugallo","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100878","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100878","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we explore the phase-selective synthesis of MoTe₂ through alkali-chalcogen exchange in MoS₂ crystals, facilitated by two alkali compounds: NaOH and KBr. The aim is to achieve the structural transformation from 2H-MoS₂ to 2H-MoTe₂ by atomic substitution of sulfur with tellurium. Our results demonstrate that at 500 °C, NaOH induces an uneven formation of both the 1 T’ and 2H phases of MoTe₂, whereas at 750 °C, KBr promotes the exclusive and homogeneous formation of the 2H phase. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the resulting crystals. The KBr-assisted method results in a more uniform phase transition with higher crystallinity and better stability compared to the NaOH-assisted method, which also induces the formation of oxide and Na<img>O interaction. This study proposes a reaction pathway for KBr assisted process and highlights the advantages of KBr in achieving 2H phase-pure MoTe₂ through density functional theory calculations, which could create new opportunities for research in material engineering and its use in optoelectronic devices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100878"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144107340","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-13DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100870
Yu Zhang , Wenjie Wu , Ning Yi , Rensuo Chen , Zhenhua Zhang , Xing Qiang , Zhen Shen , Li Shi , Jianyu Chen , Jin Zhao
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries hold significant promise for grid-scale energy storage due to their inherent safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility. However, their practical deployment remains hindered by persistent challenges, including uncontrolled zinc dendrite formation and non-uniform metal deposition during repeated cycling. In this study, we propose a laser-etched zinc metal anode featuring vertically aligned, uniformly distributed pores (LVAZn) to address these limitations. By systematically tuning pore dimensions and spacing within the LVA-Zn microchannels, we demonstrate precise control over zinc deposition behavior. The vertical microchannels architecture homogenizes electric field distribution, lowering localized current density and guiding zinc to deposit preferentially within the pores rather than on the electrode surface. Furthermore, a polyimide coating applied to the anode surface mitigates parasitic reactions by shielding zinc from direct electrolyte contact. Symmetrical cells incorporating the optimized LVA-Zn anode exhibit exceptional cycling stability across a broad range of current densities (0.2–5 mA cm−2), maintaining stable voltage profiles with minimal polarization (30 mV at 5 mA cm−2). When integrated with MnO2 cathodes in full-cell configurations, the system achieves a high reversible capacity of 270 mAh g−1 and retains 98 % of its initial capacity after 300 cycles at 1 A g−1. These results highlight the synergistic benefits of structural engineering and interface modification in advancing durable, high-performance zinc-based energy storage systems.
由于其固有的安全性、成本效益和环境兼容性,水性锌离子电池在电网规模储能方面具有重要的前景。然而,它们的实际应用仍然受到持续挑战的阻碍,包括在重复循环过程中不受控制的锌枝晶形成和不均匀的金属沉积。在这项研究中,我们提出了一种激光蚀刻锌金属阳极,具有垂直排列,均匀分布的孔隙(LVAZn)来解决这些限制。通过系统地调整LVA-Zn微通道内的孔隙尺寸和间距,我们证明了对锌沉积行为的精确控制。垂直微通道结构使电场分布均匀,降低了局部电流密度,并引导锌优先沉积在孔内而不是电极表面。此外,在阳极表面涂上聚酰亚胺涂层,通过屏蔽锌与电解质的直接接触,减轻了寄生反应。采用优化LVA-Zn阳极的对称电池在宽电流密度范围内(0.2-5 mA cm - 2)表现出卓越的循环稳定性,在最小极化(5 mA cm - 2时30 mV)下保持稳定的电压分布。当在全电池配置中集成MnO2阴极时,该系统实现了270 mAh g−1的高可逆容量,并且在1 a g−1下循环300次后仍保持98%的初始容量。这些结果强调了结构工程和界面修改在推进耐用、高性能锌基储能系统中的协同效益。
{"title":"Designing vertical aligned Zn microchannels for enhanced performance of Zn metal anodes","authors":"Yu Zhang , Wenjie Wu , Ning Yi , Rensuo Chen , Zhenhua Zhang , Xing Qiang , Zhen Shen , Li Shi , Jianyu Chen , Jin Zhao","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100870","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100870","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Aqueous zinc-ion batteries hold significant promise for grid-scale energy storage due to their inherent safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility. However, their practical deployment remains hindered by persistent challenges, including uncontrolled zinc dendrite formation and non-uniform metal deposition during repeated cycling. In this study, we propose a laser-etched zinc metal anode featuring vertically aligned, uniformly distributed pores (LVA<img>Zn) to address these limitations. By systematically tuning pore dimensions and spacing within the LVA-Zn microchannels, we demonstrate precise control over zinc deposition behavior. The vertical microchannels architecture homogenizes electric field distribution, lowering localized current density and guiding zinc to deposit preferentially within the pores rather than on the electrode surface. Furthermore, a polyimide coating applied to the anode surface mitigates parasitic reactions by shielding zinc from direct electrolyte contact. Symmetrical cells incorporating the optimized LVA-Zn anode exhibit exceptional cycling stability across a broad range of current densities (0.2–5 mA cm<sup>−2</sup>), maintaining stable voltage profiles with minimal polarization (30 mV at 5 mA cm<sup>−2</sup>). When integrated with MnO<sub>2</sub> cathodes in full-cell configurations, the system achieves a high reversible capacity of 270 mAh g<sup>−1</sup> and retains 98 % of its initial capacity after 300 cycles at 1 A g<sup>−1</sup>. These results highlight the synergistic benefits of structural engineering and interface modification in advancing durable, high-performance zinc-based energy storage systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100870"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144090201","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-08DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100874
Shivam Dubey, Abhay Singh Thakur, Rahul Vaish
Sustainable graphene based interdigitated capacitive sensors are gaining popularity as an alternative to sophisticated existing sensors, which often feature complex mechanical designs tailored for specific applications like touch detection, light touch detection, and liquid level sensing. This research introduces laser-induced graphene(LIG) based capacitive sensors fabricated on wooden substrates, offering an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. Utilizing the unique properties of wood and the precision of laser technology, we fabricated graphene layer on wood and optimized the fabrication parameters to achieve maximum capacitance and sensitivity. The graphene sensors demonstrated average touch sensitivity of response Δ C/C₀ of 31 % in capacitive touch sensing, showcasing their practical utility in diverse applications. These sensors serve as a proof-of-concept for sensor fabrication and operational mechanisms, intended for educational purposes due to their simple fabrication process and straightforward working principle. In the context of water level sensing, its sensitivity has been measured to be 1.8 pF per cm. These sustainable sensors not only meet the performance demands of modern applications but also contribute to reducing electronic waste and promoting biodegradable materials. This study paves the way for the development of eco-friendly and economical sensors that align with global sustainability goals. Due to its ability to detect dielectric materials, the LIG electrode graphene based IDC sensor can be integrated into various modern technologies and devices, it provides long-range sensing, be cost-effective, consume low power, and be environmentally friendly.
{"title":"Sustainable sensor technology: Laser-induced graphene based capacitive sensors on wooden substrates for touch and liquid level detection","authors":"Shivam Dubey, Abhay Singh Thakur, Rahul Vaish","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100874","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100874","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sustainable graphene based interdigitated capacitive sensors are gaining popularity as an alternative to sophisticated existing sensors, which often feature complex mechanical designs tailored for specific applications like touch detection, light touch detection, and liquid level sensing. This research introduces laser-induced graphene(LIG) based capacitive sensors fabricated on wooden substrates, offering an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. Utilizing the unique properties of wood and the precision of laser technology, we fabricated graphene layer on wood and optimized the fabrication parameters to achieve maximum capacitance and sensitivity. The graphene sensors demonstrated average touch sensitivity of response Δ C/C₀ of 31 % in capacitive touch sensing, showcasing their practical utility in diverse applications. These sensors serve as a proof-of-concept for sensor fabrication and operational mechanisms, intended for educational purposes due to their simple fabrication process and straightforward working principle. In the context of water level sensing, its sensitivity has been measured to be 1.8 pF per cm. These sustainable sensors not only meet the performance demands of modern applications but also contribute to reducing electronic waste and promoting biodegradable materials. This study paves the way for the development of eco-friendly and economical sensors that align with global sustainability goals. Due to its ability to detect dielectric materials, the LIG electrode graphene based IDC sensor can be integrated into various modern technologies and devices, it provides long-range sensing, be cost-effective, consume low power, and be environmentally friendly.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"52 ","pages":"Article 100874"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144069803","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-05-01DOI: 10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100868
Muhammad Asjad Afzal , Muhammad Zeeshan Abid , Khalid Aljohani , Bassam S. Aljohani , Khezina Rafiq , Muhammad Ashhad Afzal , Abdul Rauf , Ejaz Hussain
Reducing CO2 emission is a challenging and pressing issue that needs to be resolved immediately. Although, there have been reported many approaches to control on CO2, but most reliable solution is conversion of CO2 into valuable hydrocarbon products. In order to achieve this goal (CO2 reduction), researchers have focussed to synthesize ultrathin structured materials having unique catalytic chracteristics. However, our assessment indicated that most of the reports are unclear regarding their claim of catalytic efficiencies. Due to ambiguity in reported protocols, numerous significant concerns have been pointed out by many young researchers. This is the reason, there is huge uncertainty regarding the reported catalytic efficiencies. Current study has explored the recent and progressive research on ultrathin structured photocatalysts for CO2 reduction. This work highlights the important catalysts that have been excessively used for catalytic conversion of CO2 into useful products. For example, various kinds of ultrathin photocatalysts like 1D nanotubes, rods, wires and ribbons, 2D plates, nanosheets, and 3D architectures have been evaluated and discussed. Additionally, we have evaluated the important scientific techniques and methodologies that have been generally used to obtain better efficiencies. These approaches include structural engineering, use of dopants, role of vacancies, activity relationships, defects in crystal facets, structural alteration and developments of heterojunctions. All aforementioned approaches have been utilized to enhance CO2 reduction into its useful substitutes. This review provides a comprehensive overview for the readers working on targeted and ultrathin structured photocatalysts. Moreover, this study evaluates the significant strategies used for CO2 abatement. On the basis of assessment and evaluation, it has been concluded that current study holds promise to deliver advanced information for the readers and researchers working in similar areas and applications.
{"title":"Strategic attenuation of carbon footprint: Exploring the exciting potential of ultrathin structured photocatalysts for CO2 reduction†","authors":"Muhammad Asjad Afzal , Muhammad Zeeshan Abid , Khalid Aljohani , Bassam S. Aljohani , Khezina Rafiq , Muhammad Ashhad Afzal , Abdul Rauf , Ejaz Hussain","doi":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100868","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.flatc.2025.100868","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Reducing CO<sub>2</sub> emission is a challenging and pressing issue that needs to be resolved immediately. Although, there have been reported many approaches to control on CO<sub>2</sub>, but most reliable solution is conversion of CO<sub>2</sub> into valuable hydrocarbon products. In order to achieve this goal (CO<sub>2</sub> reduction), researchers have focussed to synthesize ultrathin structured materials having unique catalytic chracteristics. However, our assessment indicated that most of the reports are unclear regarding their claim of catalytic efficiencies. Due to ambiguity in reported protocols, numerous significant concerns have been pointed out by many young researchers. This is the reason, there is huge uncertainty regarding the reported catalytic efficiencies. Current study has explored the recent and progressive research on ultrathin structured photocatalysts for CO<sub>2</sub> reduction. This work highlights the important catalysts that have been excessively used for catalytic conversion of CO<sub>2</sub> into useful products. For example, various kinds of ultrathin photocatalysts like 1D nanotubes, rods, wires and ribbons, 2D plates, nanosheets, and 3D architectures have been evaluated and discussed. Additionally, we have evaluated the important scientific techniques and methodologies that have been generally used to obtain better efficiencies. These approaches include structural engineering, use of dopants, role of vacancies, activity relationships, defects in crystal facets, structural alteration and developments of heterojunctions. All aforementioned approaches have been utilized to enhance CO<sub>2</sub> reduction into its useful substitutes. This review provides a comprehensive overview for the readers working on targeted and ultrathin structured photocatalysts. Moreover, this study evaluates the significant strategies used for CO<sub>2</sub> abatement. On the basis of assessment and evaluation, it has been concluded that current study holds promise to deliver advanced information for the readers and researchers working in similar areas and applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":316,"journal":{"name":"FlatChem","volume":"51 ","pages":"Article 100868"},"PeriodicalIF":5.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143891132","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}