Themed collection Recent Review Articles
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
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00773E
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, Advance Article
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00574K
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
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00522H
Backscattering Silicon Spectrometer (BASIS): Sixteen years in Advanced Materials Characterization
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00690A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00209A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00589A
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
Research progress of green antisolvent for perovskite solar cells
This review primarily discusses the effects of green antisolvent treatment on crystal growth and the nucleation crystallization mechanism on the device performance and stability of perovskite solar cells.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3465-3481
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00290C
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00170B
Synthesis of Chiral Graphene Structure and its Comprehensive Applications: A Critical Review
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00021H
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00107A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00309H
Art etching of graphene
Various Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries of graphene patterns obtained during art etching process of precisely integrated CVD growing/etching using hydrocarbons (CH4, C3H8, C2H6, etc.), Ar, and H2.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1230-1249
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00077C
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00315B
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00532A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00171K
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00431K
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00470A
Functional oligo- and polypeptide assemblies for photochemical, optical and electronic applications
Functional peptide assemblies can be used for various applications, such as photo/electro catalysts, optical resonators, optical/electronic gates and sensors.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3203-3212
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00218K
Intrinsically thermally conductive polymers
Polymers are conventionally thought to be thermal insulators, but it is known that some macromolecules host high thermal conductivities. This work reviews the chemostructural features that yield intrinsically thermally conductive polymers.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3267-3286
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01796F
Two decades of ceria nanoparticle research: structure, properties and emerging applications
This review encompasses advances made in the development of cerium oxide nanoparticles, their structure, properties, and translation in catalysis, chemical mechanical planarization, sensing, environmental remediation and biomedicine.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3213-3266
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00055B
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, Advance Article
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, Advance Article
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00186A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00594E
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00496E
Antimicrobial Zeolites and Metal-Organic Frameworks
Mater. Horiz., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00259H
Corrosion response of steels fabricated through arc directed energy deposition additive manufacturing: a review
The review examines corrosion responses of WAAM steels, summarizing common production techniques, discussing both uniform and localized corrosion types, proposing corrosion mechanisms for WAAM steel, and offering suggestions for future research.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 3011-3037
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00226A
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00538D
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, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00291A
Interface of gallium-based liquid metals: oxide skin, wetting, and applications
This review presents the interfacial properties and behavior of gallium-based liquid metals (GaLMs) in various environments and application examples based on them.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1099-1119
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00067F
Recent advances in fluorescence and afterglow of CDs in matrices
Carbon dots (CDs) are novel nanomaterials with dimensions less than 10 nm that have attracted much attention due to their outstanding optical properties.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 1072-1098
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00093E
Emerging ferroelectric materials ScAlN: applications and prospects in memristors
The research found that after doping with rare earth elements, a large number of electrons and holes will be produced on the surface of AlN, which makes the material have the characteristics of spontaneous polarization.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2802-2819
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01942J
Intelligent micro/nanorobots based on biotemplates
Micromotors based on biotemplates: nature meets controlled motion. Cutting edge advances and recent developments are described.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2772-2801
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00114A
Fabrication of polymeric microspheres for biomedical applications
A systematic summary of fabrication technologies, a variety of structures and biomedical applications of polymeric microspheres.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2820-2855
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01641B
C3N5-based nanomaterials and their applications in heterogeneous catalysts, energy harvesting, and environmental remediation
The semiconductor material C3N5, due to its unique physicochemical properties and excellent material performance, has been widely researched and applied in the fields of energy, catalysis and environmental remediation.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2545-2571
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH02092D
Two-dimensional topological semimetals: an emerging candidate for terahertz detectors and on-chip integration
This review presents current research on semimetal-based terahertz detectors and explores their potential for miniaturization and integration.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2572-2602
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH02250A
Oxide and 2D TMD semiconductors for 3D DRAM cell transistors
2D DRAM scaling has reached its limits. Silicon integration encounters cost and performance challenges, thus prompting exploration of alternative materials. This study examines 3D DRAM structures, compares OSs and TMDs, and evaluates their potential.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 934-945
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00057A
Atomic-level imaging of beam-sensitive COFs and MOFs by low-dose electron microscopy
This review focuses on the mechanisms of beam damage in COFs and MOFs and evaluates various strategies to mitigate this damage using advanced low-dose TEM/STEM techniques in observing atomic defects, host–guest interactions, and surface structures.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 900-933
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00494E
High-entropy materials for thermoelectric applications: towards performance and reliability
This review summarizes the recent progress in the design of high-entropy thermoelectric materials, including alloys and ceramics, and emphasises the entropy-driven effect in these thermoelectric materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2323-2354
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH02181E
Triplet–triplet annihilation-based photon upconversion using nanoparticles and nanoclusters
We introduce the triplet sensitizabilities of semiconductor nanoparticles and metal nanoclusters for triple–triplet annihilation-based photon upconversion. This review aims to explore the potential of new applications for inorganic nanomaterials.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2304-2322
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00117F
Growth of emergent simple pseudo-binary ferroelectrics and their potential in neuromorphic computing devices
Ferroelectric memory devices such as ferroelectric memristors, ferroelectric tunnel junctions, and field-effect transistors are considered among the most promising candidates for neuromorphic computing devices.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2355-2371
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00153B
Fluorescent covalent organic frameworks – promising bioimaging materials
Fluorescent covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are promising candidates for imaging living cells due to their unique properties. Herein, we critically reviewed the progress and structure–activity relations of COFs for the effective bioimaging.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2077-2094
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01698F
Strategies for developing layered oxide cathodes, carbon-based anodes, and electrolytes for potassium ion batteries
The progress in the development of layered metal oxide cathodes, carbon-based anodes, and electrolytes for potassium ion batteries is reviewed. Specific development suggestions, concise perspectives, and strategies are provided.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 2053-2076
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH02118A
Hydride-doped coinage metal superatoms and their catalytic applications
Mixed valent coinage metal clusters can encapsulate different dopants, forming remarkable superatoms while retaining a hydride. In this review, we highlight the hydride's dual nature in the synthesis, structure and application of superatoms.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 675-692
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00036F
Sub-100 nm carriers by template polymerization for drug delivery applications
The conceptual expansion of template polymerization within the realm of size-controlled drug delivery systems is examined, with a particular emphasis on its application in RNA delivery.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 693-707
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00491K
Evaporation-induced self-assembly of liquid crystal biopolymers
This review encapsulates recent progress in evaporation-induced self-assembly of liquid crystal biopolymers. It introduces various anisotropic structures of biopolymers in thin film and try to figure out the formation mechanism of the structures.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1843-1866
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01585H
Advances and challenges in the modification of photoelectrode materials for photoelectrocatalytic water splitting
With the increasing consumption of fossil fuels, the development of clean and renewable alternative fuels has become a top priority.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1638-1657
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH00020J
Enhanced photocatalysis of metal/covalent organic frameworks by plasmonic nanoparticles and homo/hetero-junctions
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) photocatalysts face challenge in poor photocatalytic efficiency, which was promoted by the introduction of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) and junctions.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1611-1637
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01645E
Integrative studies of ionic liquid interface layers: bridging experiments, theoretical models and simulations
Integrative “experiment–simulation–thermodynamic modeling” is highly demanded for qualitatively and quantitatively correlating the ionic liquids interface layer structuring to the overall properties, performance, and function.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 506-535
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00007B
Bismuth-based liquid metals: advances, applications, and prospects
This review presents a systematic description on the classification of Bi-based materials, their preparation processes, physical and chemical properties, and related applications. Some suggestions for future development are also given.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1369-1394
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01722B
Recent progress in self-healable energy harvesting and storage devices – a future direction for reliable and safe electronics
This review summarizes the advances in self-healing materials developed for electrodes and electrolytes of energy harvesting and storage devices (TENG, supercapacitors and batteries) with enhanced durability and functionality.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1395-1413
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01519J
Strategies for utilizing covalent organic frameworks as host materials for the integration and delivery of bioactives
This review introduces three strategies (encapsulation, covalent binding and coordinated bonding) for construction of COF-based nanoplatforms for the integration and delivery of bioactives including small molecule, biomacromolecule and exosome.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1126-1151
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01492D
Solid-state, liquid-free ion-conducting elastomers: rising-star platforms for flexible intelligent devices
Solid-state, liquid-free ion-conducting elastomers, a rising-star class of soft ionic conductors, are presented from the perspectives of fundamental design principles, advanced manufacturing and promising applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 1152-1176
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01812A
Advances in screening hyperthermic nanomedicines in 3D tumor models
Integrating the advances of emerging hyperthermia techniques with 3D tumor models and non-invasive temperature control systems can contribute to identifying top-performing hyperthermic nanomedicines in preclinical evaluation stages.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 334-364
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00305A
Recent advances using MXenes in biomedical applications
The structure of this review includes applications of MXenes in drug delivery, tissue engineering, antimicrobial, and in biosensors.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 876-902
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01588B
The interface engineering and structure design of an alloying-type metal foil anode for lithium ion batteries: a review
This review presents a comprehensive overview on alloying-type metal foil anodes toward high energy density and low-cost LIBs, calling for more attempts in the interdisciplinary fields of electrochemistry, metallic materials science, and mechanics.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 903-922
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01565C
Recent progress on defect-engineering in ferroelectric HfO2: The next step forward via multiscale structural optimization
“Multiscale structural optimization” is assumed a next step to further optimize the unconventional ferroelectricity in HfO2 for high-performance HfO2-based ferroelectrics and devices.
Mater. Horiz., 2024,11, 626-645
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01273E
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.