Pub Date : 2026-01-30DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100937
Chung-Wen Kuo , Ko-Shan Ho , Ruo-Yu Wang , Jeng-Kuei Chang , Yuan-Chung Lin , Pei-Rong Lu , Pei-Ying Lee , Tzi-Yi Wu
The oxygen reduction current of the cathode catalyst doped with both nitrogen and sulfur atoms is higher than that of the catalyst doped with only nitrogen atom or the catalyst doped with only sulfur atom. Nitrogen and sulfur dual-doped non-precious metal catalysts are synthesized through the pyrolysis of nitrogen- and sulfur-rich microporous polymeric precursor, specifically (poly(o-phenylenediamine-co-2-aminobenzenesulfonic acid) (P(OPD-co-SANI))). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra reveal the presence of Fe-S bonds, pyridinic-N, pyridine-N oxide, graphitic-N, Fe-N, and pyrrolic-N within the FeNSC-900 composite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms a degree of graphitization in the NSC-1000, FeNC-900, FeNC-1000, FeNSC-900, and FeNSC-1000 catalysts. Scanning electron microscopy characterization indicates that the FeNSC-900 catalysts possess porous nanostructures, facilitating access to active sites essential for high oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalytic activity. The FeNSC-900 catalyst demonstrates good electrocatalytic activity towards the ORR in KOH(aq), with an ORR half-wave potential of 0.76 V. In a single-cell test, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) utilizing the FeNSC-900 catalyst as the cathode achieves a peak power density of approximately 213.3 mW cm−2 at 60°C, suggesting that the FeNSC-900 catalyst is a promising alternative to platinum-based catalysts in anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) applications.
{"title":"Calcined Fe(III)-chelated poly(o-phenylenediamine-co-2-aminobenzenesulfonic acid) as cathode catalyst for anion-exchange membrane fuel cells","authors":"Chung-Wen Kuo , Ko-Shan Ho , Ruo-Yu Wang , Jeng-Kuei Chang , Yuan-Chung Lin , Pei-Rong Lu , Pei-Ying Lee , Tzi-Yi Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100937","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100937","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The oxygen reduction current of the cathode catalyst doped with both nitrogen and sulfur atoms is higher than that of the catalyst doped with only nitrogen atom or the catalyst doped with only sulfur atom. Nitrogen and sulfur dual-doped non-precious metal catalysts are synthesized through the pyrolysis of nitrogen- and sulfur-rich microporous polymeric precursor, specifically (poly(o-phenylenediamine-<em>co</em>-2-aminobenzenesulfonic acid) (P(OPD-<em>co</em>-SANI))). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra reveal the presence of Fe-S bonds, pyridinic-N, pyridine-N oxide, graphitic-N, Fe-N, and pyrrolic-N within the FeNSC-900 composite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms a degree of graphitization in the NSC-1000, FeNC-900, FeNC-1000, FeNSC-900, and FeNSC-1000 catalysts. Scanning electron microscopy characterization indicates that the FeNSC-900 catalysts possess porous nanostructures, facilitating access to active sites essential for high oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalytic activity. The FeNSC-900 catalyst demonstrates good electrocatalytic activity towards the ORR in KOH<sub>(aq)</sub>, with an ORR half-wave potential of 0.76 V. In a single-cell test, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) utilizing the FeNSC-900 catalyst as the cathode achieves a peak power density of approximately 213.3 mW cm<sup>−2</sup> at 60°C, suggesting that the FeNSC-900 catalyst is a promising alternative to platinum-based catalysts in anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100937"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078944","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-29DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100939
Emilia Prandini , Bruno Torre , Emanuele Bosurgi , Andrew G.P. Maloney , Chiaramaria Stani , Giovanni Birarda , Lisa Vaccari , Enzo Mario Di Fabrizio , Emmanuele Parisi , Elena Simone
The different facets of crystalline particles expose specific functional groups depending on their structure and morphology, thus, influencing surface properties of the resulting materials. As particle surface properties impact product performance, safety, and manufacturing efficiency, it is important to understand how crystal structure influences facet-specific surface properties. In this work, we focused on the effect of crystal structure and morphology on properties such as roughness, mechanical strength, and chemical features. Quercetin-dimethylformamide (QDMF), a solvated form of quercetin, was selected as a single-crystal model compound. By combining computational approaches with experimental validation, we developed a standardized procedure to correlate crystal structure packing and specific surface features. Experimental data collected using various techniques were then used to validate the simulations.
First, we utilized Particle Informatics tools to analyse the surface chemistry and topology of specific QDMF crystal facets observed experimentally, namely {1–10}, {001}, and {200}. These computational results were then validated using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) integrated with Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, which provided topographical insights, chemical characterization, surface roughness measurements, and mechanical properties characterization (e.g., Young Modulus).
For chemical imaging at high spatial resolution, we employed advanced mid-infrared techniques, such as Optical Photothermal Infrared (OPTIR) microscopy and scattering-type Scanning Near-field Infrared Microscopy (s-SNIM). The experimental data were in agreement with the simulations, showing how Particle Informatics tools can assist in the design of crystalline materials with tailored surface properties.
{"title":"Understanding crystal surface anisotropy of organic materials via molecular modelling and facet-specific experimental characterization","authors":"Emilia Prandini , Bruno Torre , Emanuele Bosurgi , Andrew G.P. Maloney , Chiaramaria Stani , Giovanni Birarda , Lisa Vaccari , Enzo Mario Di Fabrizio , Emmanuele Parisi , Elena Simone","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100939","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100939","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The different facets of crystalline particles expose specific functional groups depending on their structure and morphology, thus, influencing surface properties of the resulting materials. As particle surface properties impact product performance, safety, and manufacturing efficiency, it is important to understand how crystal structure influences facet-specific surface properties. In this work, we focused on the effect of crystal structure and morphology on properties such as roughness, mechanical strength, and chemical features. Quercetin-dimethylformamide (QDMF), a solvated form of quercetin, was selected as a single-crystal model compound. By combining computational approaches with experimental validation, we developed a standardized procedure to correlate crystal structure packing and specific surface features. Experimental data collected using various techniques were then used to validate the simulations.</div><div>First, we utilized Particle Informatics tools to analyse the surface chemistry and topology of specific QDMF crystal facets observed experimentally, namely {1–10}, {001}, and {200}. These computational results were then validated using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) integrated with Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, which provided topographical insights, chemical characterization, surface roughness measurements, and mechanical properties characterization (e.g., Young Modulus).</div><div>For chemical imaging at high spatial resolution, we employed advanced mid-infrared techniques, such as Optical Photothermal Infrared (OPTIR) microscopy and scattering-type Scanning Near-field Infrared Microscopy (s-SNIM). The experimental data were in agreement with the simulations, showing how Particle Informatics tools can assist in the design of crystalline materials with tailored surface properties.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100939"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078946","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-29DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100940
Livia Alexandra Dinu , Catalin Parvulescu , Octavian Gabriel Simionescu , Oana Brincoveanu , Cosmin Romanitan , Cristina Pachiu , Ludmila Motelica , Dua Özsoylu , Sevinc Kurbanoglu
In this study, we present the fabrication and characterization of a miniaturized, single-chip electrochemical sensor implemented on a silicon/silicon dioxide platform. The device incorporates a nanocrystalline graphite (NCG) working electrode and gold reference and counter electrodes, all monolithically integrated on the same substrate. This configuration provides a compact and reliable sensing architecture, combining the electrochemical advantages of carbon with the precision and reproducibility of microfabrication. A molecularly imprinted biopolymer (MIP) layer for glyphosate (GLY) detection was subsequently formed by electrodepositing chitosan (CS) in the presence of the target analyte, directly onto the NCG surface. The resulting sensor exhibited high sensitivity and selectivity, allowing indirect detection of GLY at concentrations as low as 0.015 ppb. Validation tests demonstrated excellent recovery rates in spiked water samples, highlighting the sensor’s potential for environmental monitoring applications. This integrated platform offers a promising approach for the sensitive, portable, and cost-effective detection of GLY residues.
{"title":"Nanocrystalline graphite-patterned silicon substrates for molecularly imprinted biopolymer-based electrochemical detection of glyphosate","authors":"Livia Alexandra Dinu , Catalin Parvulescu , Octavian Gabriel Simionescu , Oana Brincoveanu , Cosmin Romanitan , Cristina Pachiu , Ludmila Motelica , Dua Özsoylu , Sevinc Kurbanoglu","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100940","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100940","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we present the fabrication and characterization of a miniaturized, single-chip electrochemical sensor implemented on a silicon/silicon dioxide platform. The device incorporates a nanocrystalline graphite (NCG) working electrode and gold reference and counter electrodes, all monolithically integrated on the same substrate. This configuration provides a compact and reliable sensing architecture, combining the electrochemical advantages of carbon with the precision and reproducibility of microfabrication. A molecularly imprinted biopolymer (MIP) layer for glyphosate (GLY) detection was subsequently formed by electrodepositing chitosan (CS) in the presence of the target analyte, directly onto the NCG surface. The resulting sensor exhibited high sensitivity and selectivity, allowing indirect detection of GLY at concentrations as low as 0.015 ppb. Validation tests demonstrated excellent recovery rates in spiked water samples, highlighting the sensor’s potential for environmental monitoring applications. This integrated platform offers a promising approach for the sensitive, portable, and cost-effective detection of GLY residues.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100940"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146079041","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The present work proposes a breakthrough technology that is focused on biocompatible bio-coating for increased efficiency of condensation in energy systems. By infusing anodized aluminum nanocavities with natural and histological beeswax, a cost-effective, scalable, and efficient solid-infused surface (SIS) is developed. Unlike a passive additive, the beeswax bio-coating modulates the surface behavior actively by adjusting contact angles and reducing contact angle hysteresis to less than 5° at operating conditions. This creates an efficient droplet formation and motion, even under high vapor flow, with a 44% improvement in the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) with respect to bare aluminum at a 16°C subcooling temperature and a 330 kW/m2 peak in heat flux at 24°C. In contrast to most studies focused on enhancing condensation with phase change materials (PCMs), in this work, the dynamic role of the beeswax coating, specifically its state transition—from solid to mushy to liquid—and its impact on droplet dynamics and thermal behavior, is emphasized. It outperforms conventional hydrophobic surfaces, especially under high subcooling conditions where flooding usually reduces efficiency. Durability tests reveal that beeswax-coated samples exhibit sustained enhanced performance even for 10 days of immersing in a wet environment or 100 hours of continuous condensation tests. Overall, the beeswax coating not only represents a breakthrough in enhancing condensation efficiency but also opens new avenues for future developments in desalination, thermal management, and renewable energy technologies.
{"title":"Thermo-responsive nanostructured surface: Beeswax for enhanced condensation performance across solid, liquid, and transition states","authors":"Behzad Rezaee, Hossein Pakzad, Mohammadali Fakhri, Hossein Moosavi Shoar, Ali Moosavi, Masoud Aryanpour","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100936","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100936","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The present work proposes a breakthrough technology that is focused on biocompatible bio-coating for increased efficiency of condensation in energy systems. By infusing anodized aluminum nanocavities with natural and histological beeswax, a cost-effective, scalable, and efficient solid-infused surface (SIS) is developed. Unlike a passive additive, the beeswax bio-coating modulates the surface behavior actively by adjusting contact angles and reducing contact angle hysteresis to less than 5° at operating conditions. This creates an efficient droplet formation and motion, even under high vapor flow, with a 44% improvement in the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) with respect to bare aluminum at a 16°C subcooling temperature and a 330 kW/m<sup>2</sup> peak in heat flux at 24°C. In contrast to most studies focused on enhancing condensation with phase change materials (PCMs), in this work, the dynamic role of the beeswax coating, specifically its state transition—from solid to mushy to liquid—and its impact on droplet dynamics and thermal behavior, is emphasized. It outperforms conventional hydrophobic surfaces, especially under high subcooling conditions where flooding usually reduces efficiency. Durability tests reveal that beeswax-coated samples exhibit sustained enhanced performance even for 10 days of immersing in a wet environment or 100 hours of continuous condensation tests. Overall, the beeswax coating not only represents a breakthrough in enhancing condensation efficiency but also opens new avenues for future developments in desalination, thermal management, and renewable energy technologies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100936"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078947","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100938
Jisoo Kim , Chanyoung Jeong
This study shows that variations in electropolishing (EP) conditions influence the stability and uniformity of the interfacial viscous layer on SUS 304 and SUS 316 L, resulting in distinct dissolution behavior and nanoscale morphology in the anodic oxide films. Under the EP1 condition, the thicker and less uniform viscous layer promoted localized dissolution, which formed a dual-layered oxide with wide and shallow polygonal pores, and with pronounced superhydrophilic and oleophilic wetting. In EP2, a thinner viscous layer was established, resulting in a denser nanoporous oxide with smaller and more uniform pores and moderate wettability. Importantly, these electropolishing-induced dimple structures acted as morphological templates, causing the anodic oxide films to develop markedly different pore sizes and thicknesses even under identical anodization conditions. XPS confirmed EP-induced redistribution of alloying elements (Cr, Ni, Mo) and the growth of multicomponent oxides after anodization. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that EP2 significantly enhanced passivation performance, producing lower corrosion current density and higher Rfilm and Rct compared with untreated samples. Overall, this work clarifies how electropolishing conditions, in combination with alloy-dependent dissolution behavior, determine dimple formation, nanopore evolution, and corrosion performance. These insights identify EP2 as an effective pretreatment route for producing dense, stable oxide films with enhanced long-term durability on stainless steels. Importantly, this study demonstrates that variations in electropolishing conditions generate distinct micro-dimple morphologies, which in turn dictate the pore structure and thickness of the anodic oxide layer even under identical anodization parameters.
{"title":"Effect of electropolishing conditions on nanostructured anodized surfaces for enhanced superhydrophilicity and corrosion resistance of 304 and 316 L Stainless Steels","authors":"Jisoo Kim , Chanyoung Jeong","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100938","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100938","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study shows that variations in electropolishing (EP) conditions influence the stability and uniformity of the interfacial viscous layer on SUS 304 and SUS 316 L, resulting in distinct dissolution behavior and nanoscale morphology in the anodic oxide films. Under the EP1 condition, the thicker and less uniform viscous layer promoted localized dissolution, which formed a dual-layered oxide with wide and shallow polygonal pores, and with pronounced superhydrophilic and oleophilic wetting. In EP2, a thinner viscous layer was established, resulting in a denser nanoporous oxide with smaller and more uniform pores and moderate wettability. Importantly, these electropolishing-induced dimple structures acted as morphological templates, causing the anodic oxide films to develop markedly different pore sizes and thicknesses even under identical anodization conditions. XPS confirmed EP-induced redistribution of alloying elements (Cr, Ni, Mo) and the growth of multicomponent oxides after anodization. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that EP2 significantly enhanced passivation performance, producing lower corrosion current density and higher Rfilm and Rct compared with untreated samples. Overall, this work clarifies how electropolishing conditions, in combination with alloy-dependent dissolution behavior, determine dimple formation, nanopore evolution, and corrosion performance. These insights identify EP2 as an effective pretreatment route for producing dense, stable oxide films with enhanced long-term durability on stainless steels. Importantly, this study demonstrates that variations in electropolishing conditions generate distinct micro-dimple morphologies, which in turn dictate the pore structure and thickness of the anodic oxide layer even under identical anodization parameters.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100938"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038366","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2025.100928
Nicolas Thomae , Maximilian Spellauge , David Redka , Heinz P. Huber
Incubation, the systematic reduction of the ablation threshold with pulse number, critically influences ultrashort pulse laser micromachining, yet its microscopic origin remains insufficiently understood despite its widespread relevance in applications. Here, multi-pulse experiments (500 fs pulse duration, 1040 nm wavelength) with fluences ranging from 0.75 to e2 times the ablation threshold and repetition rate of 1 Hz on aluminum and stainless steel were combined with pulse-resolved absorptance from Finite-Difference-Time-Domain simulations to disentangle the roles of global absorption, crater-edge near-field enhancements, and microscopic material weakening. For aluminum, surface roughening leads to an absorption increase reciprocal to the threshold, providing a sufficient explanation of incubation. In stainless steel, however, the threshold decreases despite nearly constant absorption, demonstrating that increased absorption is not a necessary condition for incubation. Edge-localized near-field enhancements provide an early but limited contribution, saturating after a few pulses. A porosity-based description within classical nucleation theory demonstrates that material weakening can only be explained microscopically by defect-induced reductions of the effective penetration depth together with pulse-dependent nucleation rates. These findings establish a microscopic and quantitative framework for incubation, advancing the physical understanding of the transition from single- to multi-pulse ablation, providing the basis for predictive models of multi-pulse ablation with ultrashort-pulses.
{"title":"Deciphering the driving mechanisms of incubation in ultrashort pulse laser ablation","authors":"Nicolas Thomae , Maximilian Spellauge , David Redka , Heinz P. Huber","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2025.100928","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2025.100928","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Incubation, the systematic reduction of the ablation threshold with pulse number, critically influences ultrashort pulse laser micromachining, yet its microscopic origin remains insufficiently understood despite its widespread relevance in applications. Here, multi-pulse experiments (500 fs pulse duration, 1040 nm wavelength) with fluences ranging from 0.75 to e<sup>2</sup> times the ablation threshold and repetition rate of 1 Hz on aluminum and stainless steel were combined with pulse-resolved absorptance from Finite-Difference-Time-Domain simulations to disentangle the roles of global absorption, crater-edge near-field enhancements, and microscopic material weakening. For aluminum, surface roughening leads to an absorption increase reciprocal to the threshold, providing a sufficient explanation of incubation. In stainless steel, however, the threshold decreases despite nearly constant absorption, demonstrating that increased absorption is not a necessary condition for incubation. Edge-localized near-field enhancements provide an early but limited contribution, saturating after a few pulses. A porosity-based description within classical nucleation theory demonstrates that material weakening can only be explained microscopically by defect-induced reductions of the effective penetration depth together with pulse-dependent nucleation rates. These findings establish a microscopic and quantitative framework for incubation, advancing the physical understanding of the transition from single- to multi-pulse ablation, providing the basis for predictive models of multi-pulse ablation with ultrashort-pulses.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100928"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038367","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-17DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100935
Saviour A. Umoren , Ali M.Al Nasser , Hifsa Kurdshid , Hatim D.M Dafalla , Sidra Nayer , Moses M. Solomon
Sulphur-doped carbon dots (S-PPCDs) were synthesized from pomegranate peel waste through a one-step hydrothermal process and explored as green corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in 5% hydrochloric acid. The nanomaterials were systematically characterized using TEM, FTIR, UV–Vis, SEM/EDAX, and fluorescence analysis, which confirmed their nanoscale dimensions (∼8.9 nm), spherical morphology, and the presence of oxygen-, nitrogen-, and sulphur-containing functional groups that promote adsorption. Corrosion inhibition performance was evaluated through gravimetric tests, electrochemical methods (EIS, LPR, PDP), and surface characterization (SEM, AFM, optical profilometry). The results reveal a strong concentration dependence, with maximum inhibition efficiency of ∼89.8% at 100 mg l-1 and 30 °C. At higher concentration (150 mg l-1), a slight decrease in efficiency was observed, attributed to multilayer formation or competitive adsorption. Elevated temperature (60 °C) reduced protection efficiency to ∼47%, indicating that the adsorption mechanism is predominantly physical. Potentiodynamic polarization results show that S-PPCDs act as a mixed-type inhibitor, reducing both anodic metal dissolution and cathodic hydrogen evolution. Surface analysis confirms the formation of a compact, adherent inhibitor layer that significantly reduced roughness and pitting compared to uninhibited samples. The findings highlight the dual benefits of waste valorization and sustainable corrosion protection, positioning S-PPCDs as an environmentally benign, low-cost, and highly efficient alternative to conventional toxic inhibitors for acidic environments.
{"title":"Corrosion inhibition evaluation of sulphur-doped pomegranate peel waste-derived carbon dots for carbon steel in acidic environment","authors":"Saviour A. Umoren , Ali M.Al Nasser , Hifsa Kurdshid , Hatim D.M Dafalla , Sidra Nayer , Moses M. Solomon","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100935","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100935","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sulphur-doped carbon dots (S-PPCDs) were synthesized from pomegranate peel waste through a one-step hydrothermal process and explored as green corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in 5% hydrochloric acid. The nanomaterials were systematically characterized using TEM, FTIR, UV–Vis, SEM/EDAX, and fluorescence analysis, which confirmed their nanoscale dimensions (∼8.9 nm), spherical morphology, and the presence of oxygen-, nitrogen-, and sulphur-containing functional groups that promote adsorption. Corrosion inhibition performance was evaluated through gravimetric tests, electrochemical methods (EIS, LPR, PDP), and surface characterization (SEM, AFM, optical profilometry). The results reveal a strong concentration dependence, with maximum inhibition efficiency of ∼89.8% at 100 mg <span>l</span><sup>-1</sup> and 30 °C. At higher concentration (150 mg <span>l</span><sup>-1</sup>), a slight decrease in efficiency was observed, attributed to multilayer formation or competitive adsorption. Elevated temperature (60 °C) reduced protection efficiency to ∼47%, indicating that the adsorption mechanism is predominantly physical. Potentiodynamic polarization results show that S-PPCDs act as a mixed-type inhibitor, reducing both anodic metal dissolution and cathodic hydrogen evolution. Surface analysis confirms the formation of a compact, adherent inhibitor layer that significantly reduced roughness and pitting compared to uninhibited samples. The findings highlight the dual benefits of waste valorization and sustainable corrosion protection, positioning S-PPCDs as an environmentally benign, low-cost, and highly efficient alternative to conventional toxic inhibitors for acidic environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100935"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145979781","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The increasing need for environment-friendly substitutes for rare-earth-based magnets has sparked interest in materials such as the L10-ordered FeNi (tetrataenite) phase, which possesses high magnetocrystalline anisotropy and saturation magnetization. Despite being a promising candidate, preparation of this ordered phase in the laboratory remains a challenge due to the slow diffusion kinetics that prevent atomic ordering under normal conditions. From the theoretical estimations and experimental results, Cu is known for accelerating the atomic interdiffusion and promoting chemical disorder, which may facilitate the grain boundary diffusion. In the present work, chemically homogeneous multilayers of equiatomic FeNi and Cu-doped FeNi (5 at.%) were studied to investigate the correlation between self-diffusion and magnetism. Nuclear resonance reflectivity and forward scattering measurements on as-deposited and annealed samples showed that Cu doping substantially increases self-diffusion, which is in agreement with significant changes in the local magnetic environment, as supported by conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy. Although the net magnetic moment remained nearly unchanged, an enhancement in the coercivity at 573 K was observed in the Cu-doped sample, as quantified by SQUID-VSM. These observations highlight the potential of Cu-assisted diffusion channels to facilitate the formation of ordered phases in FeNi systems as a strategic approach to the development of rare-earth-free permanent magnets.
{"title":"Role of Cu doping in promoting diffusion-assisted evolution of magnetic properties in equiatomic FeNi films","authors":"Ashish Gupta , Deepak Prajapat , Ilya Sergeev , Rajeev Joshi , Rajeev Rawat , Anil Gome , V.R. Reddy , Mukul Gupta","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2025.100929","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2025.100929","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The increasing need for environment-friendly substitutes for rare-earth-based magnets has sparked interest in materials such as the L1<sub>0</sub>-ordered FeNi (tetrataenite) phase, which possesses high magnetocrystalline anisotropy and saturation magnetization. Despite being a promising candidate, preparation of this ordered phase in the laboratory remains a challenge due to the slow diffusion kinetics that prevent atomic ordering under normal conditions. From the theoretical estimations and experimental results, Cu is known for accelerating the atomic interdiffusion and promoting chemical disorder, which may facilitate the grain boundary diffusion. In the present work, chemically homogeneous multilayers of equiatomic FeNi and Cu-doped FeNi (5 at.%) were studied to investigate the correlation between self-diffusion and magnetism. Nuclear resonance reflectivity and forward scattering measurements on as-deposited and annealed samples showed that Cu doping substantially increases self-diffusion, which is in agreement with significant changes in the local magnetic environment, as supported by conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy. Although the net magnetic moment remained nearly unchanged, an enhancement in the coercivity at 573 K was observed in the Cu-doped sample, as quantified by SQUID-VSM. These observations highlight the potential of Cu-assisted diffusion channels to facilitate the formation of ordered phases in FeNi systems as a strategic approach to the development of rare-earth-free permanent magnets.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100929"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145979779","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-10DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100930
Myeong-Hun Jo, Dan-Bi Moon, Hyo-Jin Ahn
To satisfy the ever-increasing demand for high-capacity and fast-charging anodes in lithium-ion batteries, the use of Si-based materials has been regarded as the most promising strategy because of their distinct lithiation capacities and kinetics. However, Si-based anodes are vulnerable to particle pulverization during repeated charge-discharge cycles, which causes the electrical isolation of Si particles. This study proposes a novel strategy to prevent the electrical isolation of micro Si alloy-based electrodes by employing multi-dimensional carbon conglomeration as a conductive additive. A multi-dimensional carbon conglomeration containing N-doped reduced graphene oxide and carbon black (NrGO/CB) was fabricated by a scalable dry method without using solvents through a mechano-fusion process. NrGO/CB functions as a valid electron transfer mechanism by activating new types of electron transfer pathways within the carbon particles through cross-linked sp3–sp2 hybrid covalent bonds. Unlike the typical sp3-hydridized system, the presence of conjugated π bonds next to the sp3-hydridized carbon causes the electrons to be delocalized at the sp3-hydridized carbon, thereby significantly enhancing electron mobility of NrGO/CB. Furthermore, the addition of a small amount of graphite functions as an initiative to integrate multi-dimensional NrGO/CB with the Si alloy particles, thereby extending the electron transfer network across the entire electrode scale. Accordingly, Si alloy anodes integrated with NrGO/CB and graphite demonstrated electrochemical performances with exceptional initial Coulombic efficiency (90.26 %) and cycling stability (101.9 % after 100 cycles at 0.1 C) compared to those of conventional carbon additives.
{"title":"Multi-dimensional conductive carbon conglomeration as conductive additives for tailoring graphite/silicon alloy anodes in lithium ion batteries","authors":"Myeong-Hun Jo, Dan-Bi Moon, Hyo-Jin Ahn","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100930","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100930","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>To satisfy the ever-increasing demand for high-capacity and fast-charging anodes in lithium-ion batteries, the use of Si-based materials has been regarded as the most promising strategy because of their distinct lithiation capacities and kinetics. However, Si-based anodes are vulnerable to particle pulverization during repeated charge-discharge cycles, which causes the electrical isolation of Si particles. This study proposes a novel strategy to prevent the electrical isolation of micro Si alloy-based electrodes by employing multi-dimensional carbon conglomeration as a conductive additive. A multi-dimensional carbon conglomeration containing N-doped reduced graphene oxide and carbon black (NrGO/CB) was fabricated by a scalable dry method without using solvents through a mechano-fusion process. NrGO/CB functions as a valid electron transfer mechanism by activating new types of electron transfer pathways within the carbon particles through cross-linked sp<sup>3</sup>–sp<sup>2</sup> hybrid covalent bonds. Unlike the typical sp<sup>3</sup>-hydridized system, the presence of conjugated π bonds next to the sp<sup>3</sup>-hydridized carbon causes the electrons to be delocalized at the sp<sup>3</sup>-hydridized carbon, thereby significantly enhancing electron mobility of NrGO/CB. Furthermore, the addition of a small amount of graphite functions as an initiative to integrate multi-dimensional NrGO/CB with the Si alloy particles, thereby extending the electron transfer network across the entire electrode scale. Accordingly, Si alloy anodes integrated with NrGO/CB and graphite demonstrated electrochemical performances with exceptional initial Coulombic efficiency (90.26 %) and cycling stability (101.9 % after 100 cycles at 0.1 C) compared to those of conventional carbon additives.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100930"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145941273","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-10DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100932
S. Maruthasalamoorthy, R. Navamathavan
Pyrovanadate compounds are considered promising electrode candidates for advanced energy storage systems, owing to the superior multivalent redox behavior of vanadium and its inherently high electronic conductivity. In this study, Zn₂V₂O₇ nanoparticles were synthesized via a template-free approach. The high crystallinity of Zn₂V₂O₇, coupled with its indirect band gap characteristics, facilitates enhanced electrochemical performance. The semiconducting transport characteristics of Zn₂V₂O₇ (Eg ≈ 2.85 eV) enable a facile charge-transfer mechanism during redox processes, which in turn yields a high specific capacitance of 954 Fg⁻¹ at a current density of 1 Ag⁻¹. In two-dimensional titanium carbide (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) MXenes, the inherent self-stacking of nanosheets, together with the nature of the surface termination groups, critically governs both electronic conductivity and ion transport behavior. In the Zn₂V₂O₇/Ti₃C₂Tₓ composite, the uniform distribution of Zn₂V₂O₇ nanoparticles across the Ti₃C₂Tₓ surface establishes a well-defined interfacial architecture, resulting in a markedly enhanced specific capacitance of 1130 Fg⁻¹ at a current density of 1 Ag⁻¹. The solid-state device based on the Zn₂V₂O₇/Ti₃C₂Tₓ//AC configuration exhibits hybrid supercapacitive behavior, delivering a high areal capacitance of 266 mFcm⁻² at a current density of 2 mAg⁻¹. The fabricated hybrid supercapacitor demonstrates outstanding cycling stability (∼98% capacitance retention, 99% coulombic efficiency after 15,000 cycles at 10 Ag⁻¹) and delivers an energy density of 83.43 mWhkg⁻¹ with a power density of 3300 mW·kg⁻¹ at 2 mA·g⁻¹, underscoring its potential for practical applications.
{"title":"Interface engineering of template free Zn2V2O7 nanoparticle embedded on Ti3C2Tx MXene hybrid supercapacitor for long term cyclic stability","authors":"S. Maruthasalamoorthy, R. Navamathavan","doi":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100932","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.apsadv.2026.100932","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Pyrovanadate compounds are considered promising electrode candidates for advanced energy storage systems, owing to the superior multivalent redox behavior of vanadium and its inherently high electronic conductivity. In this study, Zn₂V₂O₇ nanoparticles were synthesized via a template-free approach. The high crystallinity of Zn₂V₂O₇, coupled with its indirect band gap characteristics, facilitates enhanced electrochemical performance. The semiconducting transport characteristics of Zn₂V₂O₇ (E<sub>g</sub> ≈ 2.85 eV) enable a facile charge-transfer mechanism during redox processes, which in turn yields a high specific capacitance of 954 Fg⁻¹ at a current density of 1 Ag⁻¹. In two-dimensional titanium carbide (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) MXenes, the inherent self-stacking of nanosheets, together with the nature of the surface termination groups, critically governs both electronic conductivity and ion transport behavior. In the Zn₂V₂O₇/Ti₃C₂Tₓ composite, the uniform distribution of Zn₂V₂O₇ nanoparticles across the Ti₃C₂Tₓ surface establishes a well-defined interfacial architecture, resulting in a markedly enhanced specific capacitance of 1130 Fg⁻¹ at a current density of 1 Ag⁻¹. The solid-state device based on the Zn₂V₂O₇/Ti₃C₂Tₓ//AC configuration exhibits hybrid supercapacitive behavior, delivering a high areal capacitance of 266 mFcm⁻² at a current density of 2 mAg⁻¹. The fabricated hybrid supercapacitor demonstrates outstanding cycling stability (∼98% capacitance retention, 99% coulombic efficiency after 15,000 cycles at 10 Ag⁻¹) and delivers an energy density of 83.43 mWhkg⁻¹ with a power density of 3300 mW·kg⁻¹ at 2 mA·g⁻¹, underscoring its potential for practical applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34303,"journal":{"name":"Applied Surface Science Advances","volume":"32 ","pages":"Article 100932"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7,"publicationDate":"2026-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145941274","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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