Themed collection Recent Review Articles
Reaching across the divide: materials scientists interfacing with biologists
Organic bioelectronics as an emerging interdisciplinary field of research has great potential for breakthrough and disruptive technologies. This article outlines the key challenges and opportunities ahead in this field, providing strategies for the way forward.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5141-5146
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00883A
Beyond absorption maxima: the impact of wavelength-resolved photochemistry on materials science
Challenging the belief that maximal photochemical reactivity occurs at absorption maxima, this work argues that reactivity can peak at lower absorption wavelengths, with significant implications for volumetric 3D printing and materials science.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00976B
Better nanoscience through open, collaborative, and critical discussions
Material science publications are the outcome of research, but they can contain errors. We advocate for post publication peer review as a way to collectively improve self-correction of science.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3005-3010
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01781H
Oxovanadium electronics for in-memory, neuromorphic, and quantum computing applications
Redox- and spin-active macrocyclic vanadyl(IV) complexes and polyoxovanadates(V) have promising structural and physicochemical characteristics for innovative bottom-up hybrid electronics.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1838-1842
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01926H
Recent progress in atomically precise metal nanoclusters for photocatalytic application
This review summarizes the recent progress in atomically precise metal nanoclusters in various photocatalytic applications and highlights the strategy for constructing nanocluster-based heterostructures to improve stability and catalytic activity.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1262-1278
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00197D
Catalyst durability in electrocatalytic H2O2 production: key factors and challenges
We highlight issues for H2O2 electrocatalysts, including stability, degradation factors, and testing protocols for long-term efficacy. Key catalyst degradation causes include harsh reaction conditions, potential shifts, and ROS from H2O2 production.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1250-1261
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00109E
Use of nano-enabled approaches to advance acupuncture therapy for disease management
Nanotechnology may help provide new evidence to verify acupuncture theory, improve the features of acupuncture needles and their clinical effects by combining with drug delivery, and even enable new therapeutic methods.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 708-717
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00469D
Recent progress of MXene as an energy storage material
As a powerful candidate for energy storage materials, improving the antioxidant properties of MXene and optimizing its synthesis method to enhance its energy storage performance has become a research hotspot.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 215-232
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00402C
Nanoscience and nanotechnology for water remediation: an earnest hope toward sustainability
Contextualising the promise of nanoscience and nanotechnology for water pollution remediation.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 885-899
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00056K
Emerging 2D Materials Hardware for In-sensor Computing
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00405A
Muscle-like hydrogels with fast isochoric responses and their applications as soft robots: a minireview
Various muscle-like hydrogels that emerged in recent years exhibit rapid and isochoric deformations upon stimulations. This minireview summarizes the development of muscle-like hydrogels, their unique mechanisms, and applications as soft robots.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01187B
Application of carbon-based nanomaterials in Alzheimer's disease
This review elucidates the use of carbon-based nanomaterials of varying dimensions in the diagnosis and therapy of Alzheimer's disease, grounded on several pathogenic theories of AD, while also outlining present problems and future potential.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01256A
Sulfide electrolytes for all-solid-state sodium batteries: fundamentals and modification strategies
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01218F
Clay–polymer hybrid hydrogels in the vanguard of technological innovations for bioremediation, metal biorecovery, and diverse applications
Hybrid clay/polymer composite hydrogels immobilized with microbial cells offer a novel, green, and effective methodology for bioremediation, biorecovery, and other applications, due to their enhanced properties and functionalities.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5533-5549
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00975D
Full-spectrum plasmonic semiconductors for photocatalysis
This review provides a summary of the characteristics, types, synthesis and characterization of plasmonic semiconductors, the mechanism of full-spectrum plasmonic photocatalysis, and the photocatalytic applications of plasmonic semiconductors.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5470-5498
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00515E
Recent advances in artificial neuromorphic applications based on perovskite composites
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the research progress of neuromorphic devices based on composites of perovskites and different materials. The challenges and potential directions for development are also presented.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5499-5532
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00574K
Progress and perspectives of rapid Joule heating for the preparation of highly efficient catalysts
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01180E
Origin and suppression of dark current for high-performance colloidal quantum dot short-wave infrared photodetectors
This review discusses the dark current generation mechanisms and summarized the main strategies for suppressing dark current in colloidal quantum dot short-wave photodiodes. Conclusions and perspectives are provided as a guideline for this field.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01094A
Sweet MOFs: Exploring the Potential and Restraints of Integrating Carbohydrates with Metal-Organic Frameworks for Biomedical Applications
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00525B
Functional antimicrobial peptide-loaded 3D scaffolds for infected bone defect treatment with AI and multidimensional printing
Infection is the most prevalent complication of fractures, particularly in open fractures, and often leads to severe consequences.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01124D
Synthetic nanointerfacial bioengineering of Ti implants: on-demand regulation of implant–bone interactions for enhancing osseointegration
Nanointerfacial bioengineering of titanium-based implants with synthetic technologies could improve their osseointegration, showing promise to enhance interfacial osteogenesis, preventing peri-implant infection and overcome osteodegenerative stress.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01237B
Recent innovations in interfacial strategies for DLP 3D printing process optimization
This review summarizes recent interfacial strategies for DLP 3D printing process optimization from the view of interfacial interactions between solid and liquid phases which are influenced by resin formation, curing surfaces and light sources.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01160K
Tailoring the electrode material and structure of rocking-chair capacitive deionization for high-performance desalination
Rocking-chair capacitive deionization (RCDI) is a rising star in the CDI field, delivering ultrahigh desalination efficiency and excellent cycling stability.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5209-5219
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00773E
An evaluation of recent advancements in biological sensory organ-inspired neuromorphically tuned biomimetic devices
This review unveils advancements in neuroscience, enabling a comprehensive exploration of the capabilities and practical applications of neuromorphic science.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5181-5208
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00522H
Alternating current electroluminescence devices: recent advances and functional applications
This review deeply explores the application of alternating current electroluminescence in functional and visualization sensing, particularly emphasizing its future potential in human–machine visual interaction.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 5147-5180
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00309H
Semiconductor nanowire heterodimensional structures toward advanced optoelectronic devices
This review paper provides an overview of the fabrication, properties and optoelectronic applications of nanowire heterodimensional structures including nanowire/quantum well, nanowire/quantum dot, and nanowire/2D-material.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00385C
Continuous flow synthesis of metal nanowires: protocols, engineering aspects of scale-up and applications
This review comprehensively covers the translation from batch to continuous flow synthesis of metal nanowires (i.e., silver, copper, gold, and platinum nanowires) and their diverse applications across various sectors.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00781F
Graphene-based electrochemical sensors for antibiotics: sensing theories, synthetic methods, and on-site monitoring applications
The successful construction of objective sensors needs to focus on the theoretical elaboration of sensing mechanisms and practical applications for on-site monitoring antibiotics.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00776J
The evolution of immune profiling: will there be a role for nanoparticles?
Immune profiling provides insights into functioning of the immune system: distribution, abundance and activity of cells. Nanoparticles can offer a versatile approach to profile the immune system with improved efficiency and multiplexed imaging power.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1896-1924
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00279B
Synthesis of chiral graphene structures and their comprehensive applications: a critical review
Chiral graphene, a “superlattice structure,” effectively engages with target substances. Its superconductivity, tunable electronic structure, and topological states could significantly contribute to advanced materials science technologies.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1855-1895
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00021H
Recent progress of gas sensors based on perovskites
The review examines the recent progress in gas sensors with different perovskite structures and offers suggestions for future research.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01306A
Thermochromic hydrogel-based energy efficient smart windows: fabrication, mechanisms, and advancements
This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent advancements in hydrogel-based thermochromic smart windows, focusing on fabrication, chromic mechanisms, and improvements in responsiveness, stability, and energy-saving performance.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4867-4884
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00903G
Leveraging volatile memristors in neuromorphic computing: from materials to system implementation
This review explores various mechanisms enabling threshold switching in volatile memristors and introduces recent progress in the implementation of neuromorphic computing systems based on these mechanisms.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4840-4866
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00675E
Unveiling the potential of amorphous nanocatalysts in membrane-based hydrogen production
This review presents the progress of amorphous nanocatalysts in membrane electrode based electrocatalytic hydrogen production, in which the modulating of morphology, composition and phase of amorphous nanomaterials are systematically discussed.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4885-4910
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00589A
Graphene-based polymer composites in thermal management: materials, structures and applications
This review highlights advancements in the thermal management of graphene-based polymer composites, emphasizing material selection, preparation, modification, structural design, and innovative applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00846D
Photoinduced charge separation at heterojunctions between two-dimensional layered materials and small organic molecules
p–n heterojunctions between 2D layered materials and organic molecules have been developed for better understanding of photoinduced charge separation mechanism and optoelectronics applications (e.g., solar cells).
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01296H
Nanoionics enabled atomic point contact construction and quantum conductance effects
Atomic point contact structures are constructed by the electric field-driven nanoionics technique to achieve stable and adjustable quantum conductance states for various applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00916A
Pyrene-based covalent organic frameworks (PyCOFs): a review
Recently, PyCOFs have aroused great interest that pyrene unit could enhance the interlayer π–π interaction and promote the separation and migration of carriers, significantly improving the crystallinity and photoelectrical properties.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00317A
Backscattering silicon spectrometer (BASIS): sixteen years in advanced materials characterization
A broad spectrum of materials that BASIS has explored to resolve the dynamics from pico- to nano-seconds using the quasielastic neutron scattering technique.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4535-4572
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00690A
Surface functionalized cryogels – characterization methods, recent progress in preparation and application
Cryogel applicability is strongly determined by the respective functionalization which can be evaluated directly or indirectly using different analytical techniques. This also helps to ensure a high reproducibility among the produced materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4600-4637
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00315B
Exploring the potential of all-aqueous immiscible systems for preparing complex biomaterials and cellular constructs
This review focuses on strategies to fabricate biomaterials, including the ones with higher degree complexity and cell-rich constructs, using all-aqueous immiscible systems and critically discusses their potential, key requirements, and challenges.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4573-4599
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00431K
Recent progresses and challenges in colloidal quantum dot light-emitting diodes: a focus on electron transport layers with metal oxide nanoparticles and organic semiconductors
Recent advancements and challenges in scaling up quantum dot light-emitting diodes are highlighted, particularly with respect to the metal oxide nanoparticle and organic electron transport layers.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00370E
Customized surface adhesive and wettability properties of conformal electronic devices
This review covers advances in conformal electronics surface engineering, focusing on wettability and adhesion to improve adaptability to wet conditions and irregular skin textures, enhancing durability and signal stability.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00753K
Two-dimensional layered material photodetectors: what could be the upcoming downstream applications beyond prototype devices?
The applications of 2D material photodetectors in extensive fields, including imaging, health monitoring, tracking, logic operation, ultraviolet monitoring, communications, automatic driving, and acoustic signal detection, have been introduced.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1599-1629
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00170B
Synergistic integration of MXene nanostructures into electrospun fibers for advanced biomedical engineering applications
MXene-based architectures have paved the way in various fields, particularly in the healthcare area, owing to their remarkable physiochemical and electromagnetic characteristics.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1703-1724
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00209A
Oxidative stress modulating nanomaterials and their biochemical roles in nanomedicine
Many pathological conditions are predominantly associated with oxidative stress, arising from reactive oxygen species (ROS); therefore, the modulation of redox-activities has been a key strategy to restore normal tissue functions.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1630-1682
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00171K
Luminescent carbon dots versus quantum dots and gold nanoclusters as sensors
This review focuses on recent developments in understanding the fluorescence mechanism of ultra-small nanoparticles sensors, including quantum dots, gold nanoclusters, and carbon dots.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1683-1702
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00107A
Antimicrobial zeolites and metal–organic frameworks
The literature on antimicrobial applications of zeolites and metal–organic frameworks is reviewed with a focus on analytical techniques, antimicrobial mechanisms, and functional materials design.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00259H
3D and 4D printing of MXene-based composites: from fundamentals to emerging applications
This review highlights the developments in the 3D/4D printing of MXene-based composites, focusing on their application in tissue regeneration, drug delivery, sensing, and energy storage.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01056F
Advances and challenges in MXene-based electrocatalysts: unlocking the potential for sustainable energy conversion
This review summarizes the design strategies of MXene-based catalysts for HER, OER, ORR and NRR, including surface modification, MXene lattice substitution, morphology, defect and heterostructure engineering.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4239-4255
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00845F
Exploring the efficacy and future potential of polypyrrole/metal oxide nanocomposites for electromagnetic interference shielding: a review
Increase in emission of EM radiation due to electronic devices risks to both equipment and human health which have been reduced by using cost effective, environmental stability, and lightweight PPy-metal oxide nanocomposites for EMI shielding.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4256-4274
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00594E
Metal ion interference therapy: metal-based nanomaterial-mediated mechanisms and strategies to boost intracellular “ion overload” for cancer treatment
This comprehensive review systematically summarizes the intrinsic mechanism of different metal ion (such as Fe3+/Fe2+, Cu2+/Cu+, Ca2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Na+/K+, and Mg2+)-mediated interference therapies and their research progress in cancer treatment.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4275-4310
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00470A
Anode-free post-Li metal batteries
This comprehensive review explores anode-free post-Li metal batteries (Na, K, Mg, Zn, Al), emphasizing metal-philicity, current collector functionalization strategies, insights from computational studies, and advancements in electrolyte formulations.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00529E
Plasmonic nanoparticle sensors: current progress, challenges, and future prospects
This comprehensive review summarizes the past, present, and future of plasmonic NP-based sensors in terms of different sensing platforms, different chemical and biological analytes, and the expected future technologies.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00226A
Visible-light-excited organic room temperature phosphorescence
This review summarizes great advancements in visible-light-excited RTP, mainly focusing on the construction strategies, optical properties, underlying emission mechanisms, and innovative applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00873A
Multifunctional microwave absorption materials: construction strategies and functional applications
Classification and multifunctional scalability of advanced microwave absorbing materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00793J
A review of advanced helical fibers: formation mechanism, preparation, properties, and applications
Preparation methods and applications of helical fibers.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00737A
Photodynamic therapy with NIR-II probes: review on state-of-the-art tools and strategies
The current state-of-the art on NIR-II-activated photosensitizers and their applications for the deep tumor treatment, as well as recent efforts that combine NIR-II activated PDT with other complementary therapeutic routes.
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00819G
Recent advances in flexible memristors for advanced computing and sensing
Flexible memristors enable high-performance wearable electronics with low power consumption. This review introduces the mechanisms, typical materials, and applications of flexible memristors. Potential directions and challenges are also discussed.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 4015-4036
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00291A
From individuals to families: design and application of self-similar chiral nanomaterials
From individuals to families: design and application of self-similar chiral nanomaterials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3975-3995
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00496E
Bioinspired multi-scale interface design for wet gas sensing based on rational water management
Current advances in wet gas sensing are highlighted taking advantage of optimized mass transport pathways endowed by multi-scale interface design.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3996-4014
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00538D
Review of neuromorphic computing based on NAND flash memory
The proliferation of data has facilitated global accessibility, which demands escalating amounts of power for data storage and processing purposes.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1475-1492
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00532A
Multi-metallic MOF based composites for environmental applications: synergizing metal centers and interactions
Monometallic, bimetallic, and multi-metallic MOF-based composites are highlighted for their applications in detecting, absorbing, and degrading environmental pollutants.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1432-1474
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00140K
Innovations of metallic contacts on semiconducting 2D transition metal dichalcogenides toward advanced 3D-structured field-effect transistors
We discussed 2D semiconductors as alternative channel materials for advanced 3D transistors, such as GAAFETs and CFETs, and assessed various contact engineering techniques for their applicability toward advanced 3D-structured transistors.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1417-1431
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00030G
Advancements in molecular disassembly of optical probes: a paradigm shift in sensing, bioimaging, and therapeutics
Molecular disassembly is pioneering a new route to refined diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. This approach breaks down self-assembled molecules, offering enhanced precision and efficiency in various bio-oriented applications.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1390-1416
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00186A
Processing polymer photocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
The processing of conjugated organic materials into films, nanoparticles, and nanofibers, presents significant opportunities to increase their activity for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and for scaled-up systems for real world applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3764-3791
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00482E
ROS-responsive hydrogels: from design and additive manufacturing to biomedical applications
Hydrogels with intricate 3D networks and high hydrophilicity have qualities resembling those of biological tissues, making them ideal candidates for use as smart biomedical materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3721-3746
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00289J
Porous crystalline conjugated macrocyclic materials and their energy storage applications
This review provides a summary on the recent progress of porous crystalline conjugated macrocyclic materials in energy storage applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3747-3763
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00313F
Unraveling nanosprings: morphology control and mechanical characterization
Recent evaluations of nanospring synthesis methods, mechanical properties, simulations, and applications are analyzed. Future perspectives focus on molecular engineering, advanced synthesis & characterizations, and machine learning.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3500-3527
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00503A
Two-dimensional metal organic frameworks in cancer treatment
Illustration of the anti-cancer application of 2D MOFs.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3482-3499
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00068D
About this collection
In addition to first reports of new concepts, Materials Horizons and Nanoscale Horizons publish topical review and minireview articles. Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.