Integration of smart electronics and energy systems

The special issue on “Integration of Smart Electronics and Energy Systems” aims to delve into the intricate interplay between these two domains, specifically emphasizing environmental sustainability and materials innovation. This issue seeks to showcase cutting-edge advancements, multifaceted challenges, and emerging opportunities in achieving efficient and sustainable energy systems through the seamless integration of smart electronics. The environmental aspect of this research encompasses efforts to minimize energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate the environmental impact associated with electronics manufacturing and disposal. Contributions are sought in areas such as renewable energy integration, energy-efficient technologies, and strategies for reducing carbon footprints. Moreover, these studies delve into the environmental considerations involved in the design, deployment, and operation of smart electronics and energy systems, intending to ensure long-term sustainability and the preservation of valuable resources. Simultaneously, the materials dimension occupies a pivotal role in this integration, expanding the horizons of research and innovation. Recent research seeks advances in developing and utilizing innovative materials for smart electronics and energy systems. This includes investigations into new materials with enhanced electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties alongside materials facilitating efficient energy harvesting, storage, and conversion mechanisms. Contributions spanning the domains of nanomaterials, organic electronics, flexible and stretchable materials, and novel composites used in energy devices and smart electronics are highly encouraged. Notably, this special issue accentuates studies demonstrating how material breakthroughs and advancements precipitate the integration of electronics and energy systems, thereby fostering improvements in performance, reliability, and longevity.

Recent research endeavors have made remarkable strides in materials science and technology, effectuating advancements across multifarious spheres. Topological catalysts based on semimetals have evinced remarkable catalytic performance in diverse electrochemical reactions, with a special focus on the hydrogen evolution reaction. Noteworthy progress has been achieved in all-solid-state batteries by advancing the forefront of high-energy-density anode materials, effectively rendering them highly suitable for employment in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The remarkable potential of eco-friendly triboelectric nanogenerators lies in harnessing renewable kinetic energy through the ingenious deployment of nature-derived biomaterials. Pioneering research has been undertaken to mitigate the toxicity associated with lead in metal halide perovskite solar cells by exploring lead-free compositions and innovative recycling strategies. Prominent research thrusts have also been dedicated to developing optimized sensors, enabling real-time monitoring of diverse environmental factors within ecosystems. Additionally, the domain of bioelectronics has emerged as a pioneering domain, offering patient-friendly healthcare solutions with custom designs and eco-friendly approaches. These advancements collectively contribute to the realization of sustainable and innovative materials and technologies, thereby effectively addressing global challenges and fostering heightened environmental consciousness across an array of scientific disciplines. By highlighting the dimensions of environmental sustainability and materials innovation, we seek to make a valuable contribution toward the broader goal of forging a greener and more efficient future through the cohesive integration of smart electronics and energy systems.

In summary, we have observed remarkable accomplishments in integrating smart electronics and energy systems to achieve efficient and sustainable solutions. As guest editors, our objective is for this special issue to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying this integration. A key emphasis is placed on minimizing energy consumption by adopting energy-efficient technologies and strategies. Additionally, exploring innovative materials plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance and reliability of smart electronics and energy systems.

The special issue, including five original articles and seven review articles, delving into the use of renewable energy sources and implementing carbon footprint reduction measures to ensure a sustainable future. Finally, the guest editors—Professor Jung Ho Kim at University of Wollongong and Professor Sunkook Kim at Sungkyunkwan University—express their sincere gratitude to all the contributing authors, reviewers, and the EcoMat editorial team—Dr. Wai-Sum Lo as Managing Editor and Professor Zijian Zheng as Editor-in-Chief at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University—for their valuable contributions and support in bringing this special issue to fruition.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.