EMI shielding performance of PPy/Fe-WS2 nanocomposites in the Ku band
PPy/Fe-WS2 nanocomposites have been synthesized via in situ chemical oxidative polymerization, resulting in well-integrated Fe-WS2 within the polypyrrole matrix, and show a maximum EMI shielding effectiveness value of 36.12 dB in the Ku-band.
Sustainable synthesis of a PtNPs@rGO nanohybrid for detection of toxic fluoride ions using hand-made screen-printed electrodes in aqueous medium
An illustrative diagram outlining the ex situ PtNPs@rGO nanohybrid synthesis using Ficus religiosa leaf extract and PtNPs@rGO/SPCE development employing a drop-casting approach for F− determination is shown.
Biomimetic CuO/ZTF-8 nanozyme-based neoteric sensor for the selective detection of superoxide anions
CuO/ZTF-8 nanocomposite with Cu–Zn superoxide dismutase-mimicking activity has been designed, and a nanozyme-modified electrode has been fabricated and employed for electrochemical detection of superoxide anion radicals at a low potential of −0.2 V.
Evaluation of a chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel loaded with graphene oxide and nano TiO2 for bone defect reconstruction in a dog model
Implantation of bone defects with the CS/PVA/GO/nano TiO2 hydrogel represents a promising bone graft substitute for accelerating bone healing.
Room temperature operated flexible MWCNTs/Nb2O5 hybrid breath sensor for the non-invasive detection of an exhaled diabetes biomarker
Flexible gas/breath sensors have emerged as a transformative solution in personalized healthcare, offering innovative approaches for remote, non-invasive, and continuous monitoring of health indicators from breath samples.
In situ developed NiCo2O4–Ti3C2Tx nanohybrid towards non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of glucose and hydrogen peroxide
NiCo2O4–Ti3C2Tx nanohybrid based electrochemical sensor was prudently designed, which afforded abundant electrocatalytic sites, enhanced conductivity and impressive analytical performances at applied potentials of +0.5 and −0.25 V for glucose and H2O2.
High-throughput screening and an interpretable machine learning model of single-atom hydrogen evolution catalysts with an asymmetric coordination environment constructed from heteroatom-doped graphdiyne
Exploring high-activity and low-cost electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction is the key to developing new energy sources, but it faces major challenges.
About this collection
As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, the engineering of soft materials will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in shaping a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient world. The rapid advancement of science and technology has brought unprecedented opportunities and challenges in various sectors, particularly in healthcare, energy, and the environment. Among the myriad of innovations, the engineering of soft materials stands out as a field of immense potential and transformative impact.
In the realm of healthcare, soft materials have revolutionized drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and medical devices. Their biocompatibility, flexibility, and tunable properties enable the creation of innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Energy sustainability is another critical area where soft materials play a pivotal role. From flexible solar cells and energy storage systems to smart grids and energy-efficient devices, the applications are vast and varied. This is the time to explore how the unique characteristics of soft materials contribute to the development of sustainable and renewable energy technologies, paving the way for a greener future. Environmental challenges, such as pollution and resource depletion, require innovative approaches for mitigation and management. Soft materials offer promising solutions for water purification, air filtration, and waste management.
This collection, spanning Journal of Materials Chemistry A, Journal of Materials Chemistry B, Biomaterials Science, and Molecular Systems Design & Engineering, focuses on the engineering of soft materials for advanced science and technology in healthcare, energy, and the environment, aiming to create a better world for future generations. The scope of this collection also aligns with the 6th International Conference on Soft Materials held at Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain during November 17-20, 2024 and is guest edited by Kamlendra Awasthi (MNIT Jaipur, India), Eduard Llobet Valero (Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain), Anjali Awasthi (University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, India) and Fatima Ezahra (Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain).