Themed collection Recent Open Access Articles


Towards organic neuromorphic devices for adaptive sensing and novel computing paradigms in bioelectronics
We present an overview of the latest studies on organic neuromorphic and smart sensing devices and highlight the potential of these concepts to enhance the interaction efficiency between electronics and biological substances.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019,7, 12754-12760
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TC03247A

n-Type organic electrochemical transistors: materials and challenges
The rise of n-type organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs): from materials to applications.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 11778-11784
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8TC03185A

2D material hybrid heterostructures: achievements and challenges towards high throughput fabrication
2D materials display unique optical/electronic/mechanical properties and a manipulable bidimensional morphology. High throughput assembly processes can be applied for their large scale manufacturing leading to integration into mass produced products.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 15721-15734
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC04253J

Quantum materials with strong spin–orbit coupling: challenges and opportunities for materials chemists
The physics of materials with strong spin–orbit coupling is currently highly topical. Here we present an accessible outline of the chemistry of these materials, issues in determining their structure–property relationships, and opportunities afforded.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11640-11654
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02070F

Halide perovskites scintillators: unique promise and current limitations
The origins of the remarkable performance of halide perovskite scintillators are presented, along with solutions to the challenges facing the field, followed by a discussion of applications that will benefit from the unique properties of these materials.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11588-11604
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01595H

Perspectives for polychlorinated trityl radicals
The multifunctional character and stability of PTM radicals makes them appealing in a broad range of fields, from active components in molecular optoelectronics to active agents in bio-applications.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 10610-10623
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02196F

Pitfalls on evaluating pair exchange interactions for modelling molecule-based magnetism
Human know-how is crucial to cross-examine and challenge computations before trusting any result for modelling magnetic properties in molecule-based materials.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 10647-10660
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01083B

2,3-Thienoimide-ended oligothiophenes as ambipolar semiconductors for multifunctional single-layer light-emitting transistors
In view of developing multifunctional OLETs, 2,3-thienoimide-ended oligothiophenes are proposed as ideal candidates to effectively ensure good ambipolar field-effect mobility, self-assembly capability and high luminescence in solid state.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 15048-15066
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC03326J

The effect of side chain engineering on conjugated polymers in organic electrochemical transistors for bioelectronic applications
The versatile synthetic side chain toolbox assists in tuning the OECT parameters by controlling material properties of organic mixed conductors. In this review we critically summarise and evaluate various side chains used throughout OECT materials.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2022,10, 2314-2332
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC05229B

Advances in applying C–H functionalization and naturally sourced building blocks in organic semiconductor synthesis
This review presents the recent advances in the synthesis of organic semiconductors using C–H functionalization and naturally sourced building blocks to facilitate the large-scale production and commercialization of organic semiconductors.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 16391-16409
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC04128B

Metal–organic framework based systems for CO2 sensing
Monitoring CO2 levels in the atmosphere as well as in work place environments is strictly regulated.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 16132-16142
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02249K

High-throughput virtual screening for organic electronics: a comparative study of alternative strategies
We review how high throughput virtual screening can been used to navigate the landscape of materials for organic electronics.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 13557-13583
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC03256A

Computational techniques for characterisation of electrically conductive MOFs: quantum calculations and machine learning approaches
Computational approaches accelerate design and discovery of conductive metal–organic frameworks (MOFs).
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 13584-13599
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02543K

Latest directions in p-type transparent conductor design
We present an overview of historical and emerging p-type TCMs. We critically assess the p-type halide perovskites returned from high-throughput screening studies. Earth abundant non-oxides are promising candidates for p-type TCM applications.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11995-12009
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02547C

Nonlinear optical probes of nucleation and crystal growth: recent progress and future prospects
Nonlinear optical techniques are emerging as powerful in-situ probes of crystallization processes due to their inherent sensitivity to crystal structure and morphology.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11553-11568
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02007B

Towards practical and sustainable SERS: a review of recent developments in the construction of multifunctional enhancing substrates
Here, we review the state-of-the-art progress in the construction of smart multifunctional enhancing substrates. These substrates hold the key to achieving sustainability and widespread applications of SERS.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11517-11552
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02134F

A review of functional linear carbon chains (oligoynes, polyynes, cumulenes) and their applications as molecular wires in molecular electronics and optoelectronics
This review presents the multi-faceted applications of oligoynes in molecular electronics and optoelectronics, as well as recent insights for the design and properties of sp-hybridised carbon wires.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 10524-10546
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01406D

A review on electrospun magnetic nanomaterials: methods, properties and applications
A comprehensive review summarising the methods, reagents, properties and applications of electrospun magnetic nanomaterials.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 9042-9082
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01477C

n-Type organic semiconducting polymers: stability limitations, design considerations and applications
This review summarises high performing n-type polymers for use in organic thin film transistors, organic electrochemical transistors and organic thermoelectric devices with a focus on stability issues arising in these electron transporting materials.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 8099-8128
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02048J

Layer-by-layer fabrication of organic photovoltaic devices: material selection and processing conditions
Layer-by-layer (LbL) processing, otherwise known as sequential deposition, is emerging as the most promising strategy for fabrication of active layers in organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices on both laboratory and industrial scales.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 14-40
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC04146G

CsPbI3 nanocrystal films: towards higher stability and efficiency
A review on strategies to improve stability, optical properties and device efficiency of red-perovskite nanocrystal layers.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 17139-17156
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC04475J

Structure-induced optoelectronic properties of phenothiazine-based materials
Phenothiazine (PTZ)-based materials have recently received considerable interest owing to their intriguing optoelectronic properties, low-cost, versatility of functionalization, and commercial availability.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 15486-15506
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC03421E

Thermal properties of metal-halide perovskites
The thermal properties of metal-halide perovskites are reviewed with respect to experimental findings, theoretical insights, dimensionalities, and phase transitions.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 14289-14311
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC03754K

Ga2O3 polymorphs: tailoring the epitaxial growth conditions
We review the nucleation and growth of different Ga2O3 polymorphs with several techniques, giving practical guidelines for their synthesis.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 10975-10992
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC02743J

Two-dimensional conjugated polymer films via liquid-interface-assisted synthesis toward organic electronic devices
Development of conjugated polymers in two dimensions via liquid-interface-assisted synthesis as active layers for use in electronic devices.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 10696-10718
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC01586E

Photoelectron spectroscopy on single crystals of organic semiconductors: experimental electronic band structure for optoelectronic properties
Methodologies and experimental achievements for exploration into electronic band structures of organic semiconductor and hybrid perovskite single crystals are reviewed.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 9090-9132
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC00891E

Lanthanide-based inorganic–organic hybrid materials for photon-upconversion
Photon-upconversion materials are capable of converting low energy infrared light into higher energy visible or ultraviolet light.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 6946-6965
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC01216E

Metal particle-free inks for printed flexible electronics
The development of metal particle-free inks is reviewed, with particular attention on their formulation, patterning and post-processing techniques.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019,7, 15098-15117
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TC05463D

Hot carrier solar cells and the potential of perovskites for breaking the Shockley–Queisser limit
We review the cooling of charge carriers in metal halide perovskites for the use in hot carrier solar cells.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019,7, 2471-2486
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8TC04641G

The researcher's guide to solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells
Solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell components, materials, architectures and interfaces are comprehensively reviewed.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 11903-11942
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8TC03542C

Supramolecular design principles for efficient photoresponsive polymer–azobenzene complexes
Recent progress in photoresponsive polymers based on three common supramolecular design strategies, namely ionic, hydrogen and halogen bonding, is reviewed.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 2168-2188
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC05005D

2D material liquid crystals for optoelectronics and photonics
The merging of the materials science paradigms of liquid crystals and 2D materials promises superb new opportunities for the advancement of the fields of optoelectronics and photonics. In this review, we summarise the development and applications of 2D material liquid crystals for optoelectronics and photonics.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 11185-11195
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC02549A

Perspective on carbazole-based organic compounds as emitters and hosts in TADF applications
Perspective covering carbazole-containing emitters and hosts for third generation TADF (thermally-activated delayed fluorescence) OLED technology along with computational benchmark studies.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 8622-8653
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC02156A

Process–property relationship in high-k ALD SrTiO3 and BaTiO3: a review
This review addresses recent approaches for atomic layer deposition (ALD) that are closely related to the electrical properties of ultrathin SrTiO3 and BaTiO3 films.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 8000-8013
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6TC05158H

Discovering structure–property relationships for the phonon band structures of hydrocarbon-based organic semiconductor crystals: the instructive case of acenes
A systematic analysis of the phonon bands calculated using dispersion-corrected density functional theory for crystalline acenes reveals analogies between the phonons and classical oscillator models. Based on these, the evolution of the materials’ properties can be rationalised.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2022,10, 2532-2543
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC04708F

In0.5Ga0.5N layers by atomic layer deposition
We present an ALD approach to metastable In1−xGaxN with 0.1 < x < 0.5 based on solid In- and Ga-precursors that were co-sublimed into the deposition chamber in one pulse.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 13077-13080
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02408F

Direct laser writing of vapour-responsive photonic arrays
Combining structural design (led by FDTD simulations) and innovative hydrogel materials (via ionic liquid cosolvents), we fabricate dynamic responsive photonic arrays.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11674-11678
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01796A

Colloidal synthesis of lead-free Cs2TiBr6−xIx perovskite nanocrystals
First colloidal synthesis of pure and mixed bromide–iodide cesium titanium perovskite nanocrystals. By adjusting the halide precursors’ ratio, the bandgap can be tuned from 2.3 eV to 1.2 eV.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11098-11103
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01732B

Lamellar silver thiolate coordination polymers with reversibly switchable blue-to-near infrared optical transitions
Lamellar silver thiolates (Ag-MPA) possess reversible temperature dependent blue-to-near infrared optical transitions resulting from metallophilic interactions in the layers and conformational stabilization of the ligands.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 11079-11084
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01983J

Exploring swift-heavy ion irradiation of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells for green-emitters: the use of Raman and photoluminescence to assess the irradiation effects on the optical and structural properties
Xe SHI irradiation of InGaN/GaN MQWs leads to surface damage and intermixing at the interfaces. The introduced defects cause a strong quenching of the luminescence as well as a change in the excitation mechanisms.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 8809-8818
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC01603B

Controlling through-space and through-bond intramolecular charge transfer in bridged D–D′–A TADF emitters
Donor–donor′–acceptor molecules where the donor′ bridges the donor and acceptor have different possible interaction pathways for charge transfer.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 8819-8833
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC02316K

Pixelated full-colour small molecule semiconductor devices towards artificial retinas
Variable bandgap conjugated donor–acceptor small molecule thin films show absorption spectra similar to those of human eye's photoreceptors. Photoactive devices interfaced with a bio-electrolyte reveal capacitive photocurrent response making them suitable for future full-colour retinal prosthesis.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 5858-5867
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC05383J

Influencing prototropy by metal ion coordination: supramolecular transformation of a dynamer into a Zn-based toroidal species
The work provides a previously unknown example of the desymmetrisation of an organic component resulting from the metal-ion induced tautomerisation which led to the generation of a new type of toroidal coordination species at a solid–liquid interface.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 3065-3069
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC05598K

Electronic properties of phases in the quasi-binary Bi2Se3–Bi2S3 system
We investigated the quasi-binary Bi2Se3–Bi2S3 system and experimentally demonstrated the compositional range of existence of the topological surface states.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 3058-3064
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC05121G

Mechanisms for collective inversion-symmetry breaking in dabconium perovskite ferroelectrics
We show that the combination of molecular shape and strain coupling drives the emergence of polarisation in methyldabconium perovskite ferroelectrics.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 2706-2711
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC00619C

Anisotropic silica colloids for light scattering
Anisotropic silica particles were used as model scattering enhancers and directly compared to their spherical counterparts. Furthermore, silica rods were assembled into micron-sized scattering particles. This allows for use in pigment formulations.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 2695-2700
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC00072A

Engineering Sr-doping for enabling long-term stable FAPb1−xSrxI3 quantum dots with 100% photoluminescence quantum yield
The Pb substitution in quantum dots (PQDs) with lesser toxic metals has been widely searched to be environmentally friendly, and be of comparable or improved performance compared to the lead-perovskite.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 1555-1566
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC04625F

Enhanced 1.54 μm luminescence of a perfluorinated erbium complex sensitized by perfluorinated Pt(II) and Zn(II) phthalocyanines with 980 nm emission
Metallophthalocyanines with ∼980 nm emission show sensitization effects on an erbium complex. A long lifetime of 1.05 ms, a PLQY of 13%, Er3+ 1.5 μm emission enhancement of 81 times are obtained in the perfluorinated organic erbium co-doped system.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2021,9, 456-465
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC05301E

Biodegradable inkjet-printed electrochromic display for sustainable short-lifecycle electronics
We report on inkjet-printed, wearable electrochromic displays with certified biodegradability according to the international standard 14855 for short-lifecycle applications.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 16716-16724
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC04627B

Two-dimensional monoelemental germanene nanosheets: facile preparation and optoelectronic applications
Few-layer 2D germanium nanosheets (GeNS) are obtained via a facile liquid-phase exfoliated method and fabricated as electrode materials to assemble self-powered high performance photo-electrochemical (PEC) type photodetectors.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 16318-16325
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC03892J

Efficient third harmonic generation from FAPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals
Experimental evidence and characterization of nonlinear third harmonic generation from hybrid FAPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals embedded in a porous thin film demonstrate a new potential application of these semiconductors.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 15990-15995
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC04790B

Synthesis of small Ag–Sb–Te nanocrystals with composition control
Ternary telluride nanocrystals have gained increasing interest as materials for thermoelectric, optoelectronic, and phase-change memory applications. This paper presents an amide-promoted synthesis for Ag–Sb–Te colloidal nanocrystals with accurate composition control.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 15985-15989
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC00880J

Charge-transfer engineering strategies for tailored ionic conductivity at oxide interfaces
Based on the example of the p-type LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface, we discuss charge-transfer phenomena that tailor the ionic conductivity along oxide heterointerfaces, by providing a confined space-charge layer as channel for oxygen ion conduction.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 11354-11359
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC01780A

A bifacial colour-tunable system via combination of a cholesteric liquid crystal network and hydrogel
We present a colour tunable system obtained by combining a humidity-responsive cholesteric liquid crystal network and hydrogel coatings, in a diligently designed cell-geometry.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 10191-10196
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC02189J

Prolonged and efficient near-infrared photoluminescence of a sensitized organic ytterbium-containing molecular composite
A novel approach to sharp and persist NIR luminescence at 1 μm wavelength.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 9502-9505
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TC02075C

Utilizing Diels–Alder “click” chemistry to functionalize the organic–organic interface of semiconducting polymers
An all-solution-based modular functionalization of a cross-linked polymer semiconductor interface is presented. The thus covalently introduced moieties can be utilised for tailor-made organic–organic interfaces in organic optoelectronic devices.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 3302-3307
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TC06180K

Stable antiferromagnetic nanocrystals for room temperature applications: the case of iron nitride
We characterise the magnetism of self-assembled FenN nanocrystals, combining core level spectroscopy with first-principles theory. Ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic phases are found, which are magnetically ordered at room temperature.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019,7, 9474-9480
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TC02334H

Complete self-recovery of photoluminescence of photodegraded cesium lead bromide quantum dots
Self-readsorption of surface ligands completely restores the photoluminescence of CsPbBr3 quantum dots damaged by excitation light.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019,7, 8546-8550
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9TC02365H

Compositionally tunable ternary Bi2(Se1−xTex)3 and (Bi1−ySby)2Te3 thin films via low pressure chemical vapour deposition
[MCl3(EnBu2)3] (M = Sb, Bi; E = Se, Te) enable CVD growth of ternary Bi2(Se1−xTex)3 and (Bi1−ySby)2Te3 thin films with good compositional, structural and morphological control.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 7734-7739
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8TC01285G

Highly stable doping of a polar polythiophene through co-processing with sulfonic acids and bistriflimide
Upon doping with sulfonic acids and bistriflimide the polar polythiophene p(g42T-T) exhibits a maximum conductivity of 120 S cm−1 and can be hot-pressed into self-standing, flexible films.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 6905-6910
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8TC01593G

Synthesis, crystal structure, magnetic and electronic properties of the caesium-based transition metal halide Cs3Fe2Br9
A 0D perovskite-related material Cs3Fe2Br9 is shown to have a low bandgap of 1.65 eV and exhibit antiferromagnetic behaviour.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 3573-3577
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC04798C

From anthraquinone to heterocoronene as stable red chromophore
A new heterocoronene-based chromophore was synthesized via a two-step reaction and showed similar photostability to perylenetetracaboxdiimides.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2018,6, 1334-1337
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC05073A

Polymer colour converter with very high modulation bandwidth for visible light communications
We report the synthesis, photophysics and application of a novel semiconducting polymer as a colour converter for high speed visible light communication.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 8916-8920
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC03787B

Electronic structure design for nanoporous, electrically conductive zeolitic imidazolate frameworks
Electronic structure calculations are used to develop design rules for enhanced electrical conductivity in zeolitic imidazolate frameworks.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 7726-7731
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC03150E

Influence of nanoscale order–disorder transitions on the magnetic properties of Heusler compounds for spintronics
Modifications in nanoscale chemical order can tune the magnetic properties of Co2FeSixAl1−x, indicating disorder as a potential engineering tool.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 4388-4392
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC01241A

Rapid laser-induced photochemical conversion of sol–gel precursors to In2O3 layers and their application in thin-film transistors
We report the development of indium oxide (In2O3) transistors via a single step laser-induced photochemical conversion process of a sol–gel metal oxide precursor.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 3673-3677
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TC00169J

A novel angularly fused bistetracene: facile synthesis, crystal packing and single-crystal field effect transistors
Simply “migrating” the aromatic sextet of cata-condensed 2D PAH with the same number of fused benzene rings affords novel organic semiconductors with different properties.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 1308-1312
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6TC04365H

Temperature-insensitive electro-optic response of polymer-stabilized blue phases
Polymer-stabilized blue phase liquid crystal in-plane switching cell.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2017,5, 518-521
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6TC04679G

Effect of the nanoparticle size on thermometric properties of a single-band ratiometric luminescent thermometer in NaYF4:Nd3+
Due to the fact that temperature is one of the key physical quantities determining the occurrence of physical phenomena, chemical reactions or biological processes, one of the important issues to be solved is the precise determination of temperature.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2022,10, 3006-3014
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC06069D

The surprising effects of sulfur: achieving long excited-state lifetimes in heteroleptic copper(I) emitters
The impact of the different chalcogens on the photophysical properties of [Cu(phen)(P^P)]+ complexes in which phen has MeO or MeS groups in the 2,9-, 3,8- or 4,7-positions is described.
J. Mater. Chem. C, 2022,10, 3089-3102
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TC05591G
About this collection
This collection contains recent Open Access articles published by Journal of Materials Chemistry C, the home for high impact applications, properties and synthesis of exciting new materials for optical, magnetic and electronic devices. New articles will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.