Themed collection Journal of Materials Chemistry A Recent Review Articles
Insight into rechargeable batteries under extreme pressure and gravity for deep space exploration
This work covers recent advancements and outlooks in rechargeable batteries for deep space application, including mass transfer, reaction interface, and core component changes under extreme pressure, microgravity, and supergravity.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 27123-27129
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04410J
Ni-rich layered cathodes in sodium-ion batteries: perspectives or déjà vu?
This Highlight explores advancements in Ni-rich cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries, which offer practical synthesis methods, high specific capacity, and environmental benefits while addressing energy density and cycle life challenges.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 17756-17770
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA01989J
Revisiting the ionic conductivity of solid oxide electrolytes: a technical review
The present perspective revises the ionic conductivity of highly studied fluorite- and perovskite-based electrolytes for their applications in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and electrolysis cells (SOECs).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25696-25714
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03852E
Integrating crystallographic and computational approaches to carbon-capture materials for the mitigation of climate change
This article presents a perspective on the state of the art in the structure determination of microporous carbon-capture materials and paths toward future progress in this field, as discussed the NIST workshop of the same title.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25678-25695
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04136D
Pivotal role of the Pourbaix diagram in electrocatalysis
Pourbaix diagram is a critical tool in electrocatalytic research, driving innovation and improving the reliability of catalyst development.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05476H
Complementary X-ray and neutron imaging of water electrolysers for green hydrogen production
This perspective discusses the current status and future needs for the use of X-ray and neutron imaging as complementary methods for helping solve key challenges facing electrolyser materials.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23364-23391
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02885F
Structural determination of covalent organic frameworks through diffraction methods
As an emerging crystalline porous material constructed from organic building blocks linked by covalent bonds, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have garnered significant interest due to their well-defined pore structures.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 21704-21715
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02312A
Nanoscale spatial and time-resolved mapping in perovskite and organic solar cells: a multimodal technique to visualize the photoinduced charge dynamics
This perspective delves into the nanoscale photodynamics mapping of perovskite (PSCs) and organic solar cells (OSCs) using a multimodal approach to enhance photovoltaic performance.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 16329-16342
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA01773K
Recent progress and perspectives of liquid organic hydrogen carrier electrochemistry for energy applications
This perspective delves into electrochemically active and regenerable liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), exploring their electrochemical properties and applications in hydrogen storage, regenerative fuel cells, batteries, and flow batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 15580-15591
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA01893A
Emerging electrochemical humidity sensors for zero power consumption and self-powered humidity detection: a perspective
This perspective summarizes recent advances in electrochemical humidity sensors and mainly focuses on three aspects: working principles; humidity sensing and power generation performances; self-powered humidity detection system.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 14975-14985
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA06283J
Deciphering interfacial charge transfer mechanisms in electrochemical energy systems through impedance spectroscopy
Employing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy as a non-destructive analytical tool for elucidating the interfacial charge transfer in electrochemical energy conversion/storage systems.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 14334-14353
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA00537F
Advancing low-dimensional flexible energy devices for wearable technology
This perspective article discusses the research, issues, and prospects of flexible batteries and supercapacitors in terms of one- and two-dimensions, as well as their stretchable, bendable, and twistable properties.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 13672-13681
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02241F
Hydrogen generation from atmospheric water
Green hydrogen, produced by water splitting with renewables, faces water scarcity issues. Atmospheric moisture, a stable source, offers an alternative. This article reviews technologies and challenges of using atmospheric water for H2 production.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 12381-12396
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA00848K
Insights into adsorbent materials for lithium extraction by capacitive deionization: reconceptualizing the role of materials informatics
The potential of materials informatics in designing lithium extraction materials for capacitive deionization have been discussed.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 10676-10685
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA07069G
A perspective on the building blocks of a solid-state battery: from solid electrolytes to quantum power harvesting and storage
We present a comprehensive perspective on the fundamental components of a solid-state battery, starting from all-solid-state electrolytes and extending to quantum power harvesting and storage.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 690-722
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA04228F
Temperature and pressure induced structural transitions of lead iodide perovskites
Conventional lead halide perovskites, APbI3, are excellent materials for photovoltaics and other optoelectronic applications. This perspective highlights the temperature and pressure induced structural phase transitions of CsPbI3, MAPbI3 and FAPbI3.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 19-37
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA05315F
Exploring the potential of gas atomized high entropy alloys in thermal spray coatings – a comprehensive review
The microstructural, mechanical, wear & corrosion behaviours of gas-atomized HEA coatings obtained by various thermal spray techniques are explored. Diverse applications and current trends of HEA coatings are discussed.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04512B
Pore Engineering of Porous Framework Materials for Efficient SF6 Capture
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA06241H
From medium- to high-entropy hydroxides for hybrid supercapacitors: a review
This review highlights the recent progress of medium-entropy and high-entropy hydroxides for hybrid supercapacitors. Key synthesis methods and strategies are discussed. Challenges and prospects for these materials are also addressed.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05625F
AI and ML for Selecting Viable Electrocatalysts: Progress and Perspectives
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04991H
Microwave absorbing properties of Polypyrrole-based 2D Nanocomposites
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05676K
Borocarbonitride materials as metal-free catalysts for advanced catalysis
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04797D
Recent review on self-supported one-dimensional core/shell nanostructures based on WO3 for enhanced electrochromism
This review analyzes the advantages of self-supported one-dimensional core/shell nanostructures (SS1DCSNs) for electrochromic applications and provides an in-depth examination of current literature on WO3-based SS1DCSNs.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05474A
Constructing a high-performance bifunctional MnO2-based electrocatalyst towards applications in rechargeable zinc–air batteries
MnO2-based materials are excellent electrocatalysts for rechargeable zinc–air batteries due to their various advantages. The review comprehensively discusses four different strategies to enhance the electrocatalytic performance of MnO2.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05182C
From structure to function: MOF-based and COF-based catalysts for efficient electrocatalytic H2O2 production via 2e− ORR
Overview of the structure and performance of organic framework materials applied in 2e− ORR electrocatalysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 27180-27205
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05404K
Recent progress on MXene–polymer composites for soft electronics applications in sensing and biosensing: a review
A pictographic representation of recent developments in sensors and biosensors made with MXene–polymers composites.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 27130-27156
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04211E
Electrospun nanofiber-based humidity sensors: materials, devices, and emerging applications
In this review, electrospun nanofiber-based humidity sensors are comprehensively summarized according to material types, device types/working mechanisms and emerging applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 27157-27179
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05042H
Advances in the application of first principles calculations to phosphate-based NASICON battery materials
NASICON potential unlocked: first-principles calculations guide doping for sodium ion battery advancement.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04943H
Regulation of electrocatalytic properties of high entropy alloy electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction
We briefly introduce the four core effects of HEAs and various regulatory strategies for HEA catalysts. This will help scholars further understand the advantages and flexibility of HEAs as catalysts.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04984E
Considerate instability factors in mono and divalent metal ion batteries: from fundamentals to approaches
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05386A
A holistic review on lithium-ion battery direct recycling from electrolyte to electrodes
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04976D
Advanced metal–organic frameworks for superior carbon capture, high-performance energy storage and environmental photocatalysis – a critical review
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a transformative class of materials, offering unprecedented versatility in applications ranging from energy storage to environmental remediation and photocatalysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03877K
Advances in radiative cooling materials for building energy efficiency: a decade of progress
In this critical review, we present a comprehensive analysis of the advancements in RSC technology over the past decade, a fast-developing period, to further facilitate its practical applications in buildings.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04942J
Ultrathin Two-Dimensional Membrane by Assembling Graphene and MXene Nanosheets for High-performance Precise Separation
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05097E
Unveiling olivine cathodes for high energy-density lithium-ion batteries: a comprehensive review from the atomic level to the electrode scale
We propose unifying strategies for the development of high-energy, low-cost, long-lasting olivine cathodes through atomic to electrode level engineering, focusing on: (1) high energy densities, (2) kinetics, and (3) structural stabilities.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02338B
MXene-based Materials: Potential High-Performance Electrodes for Aqueous Ion Batteries
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05711B
Engineered diatomic catalyst empowered electro-Fenton processes for advanced water purification
This work introduces the selection and preparation of DACs for the 2 + 1e− ORR EF process and concludes with a discussion on challenges and future directions for the intelligent design of electrodes and reactors in EF purification technologies.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26439-26456
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04567J
When electrocatalytic nitrate reduction meets copper-based atomic site catalysts
This manuscript comprehensively reviews the recent advancements in Cu-based atomic site catalysts in the NO3RR, following a sequential order with six sections: Introduction, Mechanism, Cu-based SACs, Cu-based SAAs, Cu-based DACs, and Perspectives.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26367-26389
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04389H
Metal–organic frameworks as promising electrocatalysts for the nitrogen reduction reaction: mapping the research landscape and identifying future trends
In this review, we highlight the design processes and latest advances in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) leveraged as electrocatalysts for the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26350-26366
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04817B
Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to multi-carbon products
The latest progress of Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts (Cu-based MOFs, Cu-based MOF composites, and Cu-based MOF derivatives) for the CO2RR to C2+ products was discussed with a focus on strategies and mechanisms for enhancing catalytic performance.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26421-26438
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05059B
Dual-atom catalysts with microenvironment regulation for water electrolysis
Dual-atom catalysts (DACs) have emerged as highly promising and efficient catalysts for water electrolysis, primarily due to their distinct dual-atom site effects.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26316-26349
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03382E
Recent advances in quaternary copper-based sulfides and their derivatives for solar hydrogen evolution
This review presents the recent advances in quaternary copper-based sulfides and their derivatives for solar hydrogen evolution, with an emphasis on the structure–function correlation.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 26390-26420
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03912B
Boosting the efficiency of electrocatalytic water splitting via in situ grown transition metal sulfides: a review
This review provides an in-depth analysis of the key aspects related to in situ grown TMS electrodes, including the selection of TMS active materials, various substrates, and materials engineering.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA06197G
Electrolyte regulation methods for improving the cycle life of zinc metal anodes
Three electrolyte regulation methods, including electrolyte solvation structure regulation, EDL regulation, and SEI regulation, are discussed in detail. Each method targets a distinct aspect: bulk electrolyte, EDL electrolyte, and SEI, respectively.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05590J
Basics, developments, and strategies of transition metal phosphides toward electrocatalytic water splitting: beyond noble metal catalysts
This review covers the comprehensive information of basic water splitting electrolysis, catalyst manufacturing, performance enhancement strategies, and perspectives of transition metal phosphide electrocatalysts considering the recent studies.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04455J
Artificial CO2 photoreduction: a review of photocatalyst design and product selectivity regulation
We summarized the design strategies for photocatalysts to enhance CO2 reduction and accepted pathways for selective photocatalytic CO2 conversion.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04600E
Synergistic interaction and hybrid association of conducting polymer photocatalysts/photoelectrodes for emerging visible light active photocatalytic applications
This review emphasises the synergistic interaction in conducting polymer hybrids for boosted visible-light photocatalysis, focusing on enhancing optoelectronic properties.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03977G
Towards enhanced transparent conductive nanocomposites based on metallic nanowire networks coated with metal oxides: a brief review
Silver nanowire networks, coated with metal oxides, are extensively studied from a fundamental perspective. This review summarizes their integration into various applications and guides metal oxide selection based on specific device requirements.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25600-25621
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05370B
Toward next-generation wearable sensors based on MXene hydrogels
Here in this review, we systematically analyze the design principles of MXene hydrogels for next-generation wearable sensors. Emphasis is placed on multiple wearable sensors based on MXene electrical/mechanical enhancement in the hydrogel network.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25622-25642
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04996A
Defects in kesterite materials towards high-efficiency solar cells: origin, impact, characterization, and engineering
The origins and effects of defects in kesterite absorbers as well as commonly used defect characterization and passivation techniques are summarized, and critical insights toward high-efficiency CZTSSe solar cells are presented.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25643-25677
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03883E
Carbon fibre based electrodes for structural batteries
This review captures the state-of-the-art carbon fibre-based electrodes and outlines the required research for them to deliver improvements in electrochemical and mechanical performance of structural batteries in future electrified transport.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 25580-25599
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA01008F
Mechanical behavior of high-entropy intermetallic compounds and high-entropy ceramics
This review summarized the latest research progress on HEICs and HECs, with a focus on phase structure prediction criteria and strengthening/toughening strategies, in order to accelerate their engineering applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04183F
Electrode process regulation for high-efficiency zinc metal anodes
Regulation strategies for zinc anode ion deposition.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05143B
Summary review of spectral frequency division utilization of renewable radiant energy
Spectrally selective utilization of radiant energy.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24839-24861
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03430A
Insight into the activity of Ni-based thermal catalysts for dry reforming of methane
The review summarizes recent research progresses and methods for tuning Ni-based thermocatalysts to improve the activity of dry reforming of methane.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24802-24838
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04069D
Elemental halogen cathodes for aqueous zinc batteries: mechanisms, challenges and strategies
Aqueous zinc–halogen batteries (AZHBs) are promising energy-storage systems but suffer from shuttle effect and poor redox kinetics. This review summarizes the mechanism and research status of AZHBs and provides solutions to overcome the challenges.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24746-24760
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05108D
Review on the synthesis of Li-rich layered oxide cathodes
Based on the solid-phase reaction mechanism, this paper analyzes the synthesis process of LLOs, and summarizes the factors affecting the sintering process of LLOs.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24727-24745
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03917C
Water evaporation systems for the simultaneous generation of electricity and water desalination: a review
In recent years, people have been committed to obtaining clean water and electric energy through solar interface evaporation, a common phenomenon in nature.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24761-24801
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04084H
Advancements in thermoelectric materials: optimization strategies for enhancing energy conversion
This review summarizes key strategies for optimizing thermoelectric materials to enhance energy conversion efficiency.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24041-24083
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03666B
Breaking boundaries of soft photocatalysis: overcoming limitations of carbon nitride as a single-light absorber for overall water splitting
The exciton conversion process in organic carbon nitride for photocatalytic overall water splitting.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23971-24004
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03163F
Exploring the synergy of magnetism and electrocatalysis: a comprehensive review on mechanisms, recent developments and future perspectives
Material modifications and magnetic field play a significant role in enhancing the performance of electrocatalyst.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 24005-24040
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02468K
Biomass materials with special wettability: a sustainable solution for efficient oil–water separation
Multifunctional applications of biomass materials with special wettability in oil–water separation and other fields.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23315-23336
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04039B
Recent advances in rechargeable aqueous magnesium-ion batteries
This work provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in mild aqueous Mg-ion batteries, covering their significant components such as electrolytes, cathode materials, intercalation anode materials, Mg metal anodes, and the full cell.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23337-23363
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03970J
Recent progress on electrocatalysts in ammonia electrooxidation reaction for clean hydrogen production
The state-of-the-art electrocatalyst design for improving the efficiency and selectivity of NH3 electrooxidation, contributing to the advancement of sustainable H2 production technologies.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23202-23217
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02897J
Online acoustic emission sensing of rechargeable batteries: technology, status, and prospects
This Review summarizes recent progress and discusses future perspectives in applying online acoustic emission sensing as a non-destructive method for monitoring rechargeable batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23280-23296
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04571H
High-entropy oxides for energy storage and conversion
The escalating demand for energy storage and catalysis devices in the realm of renewable energy applications has witnessed a rapid surge in recent years, with expectations for continued growth in the foreseeable future.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23179-23201
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA04156A
The role of copolymers towards key materials in electrochemical supercapacitors: a review
This review provides recent advances about roles of copolymers towards key materials in supercapacitors, such as electrodes, electrolytes, and binders, focusing on the effects of preparation methods, material selections, and structural design.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23243-23279
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03682D
Recent advances of ruthenium-based materials for acidic oxygen evolution reaction: from catalyst design to proton exchange membrane water electrolysers
In this review paper, we emphatically summarize the improvement strategies of Ru-based acidic OER catalysts and their application in PEMWEs. Further challenges and directions in the development of Ru-based catalysts are also speculated.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23297-23314
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA02337D
Exploring the dual phases of cadmium sulfide: synthesis, properties, and applications of hexagonal wurtzite and cubic zinc blende crystal structures
The distinctive properties of hexagonal and cubic CdS illuminate their electronic, optical, and structural features, with practical implications explored through their applications in various fields.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23218-23242
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03496A
Latest advances in in situ and operando X-ray-based techniques for the characterisation of photoelectrocatalytic systems
The present review gives an overview of the different state-of-the-art X-ray techniques employed for the characterisation of photoelectrocatalytic systems, focusing on the possibilities of the studied techniques, cell designs and relevant results.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 23125-23146
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA03068K
About this collection
This collection contains recent Review-type articles published by Journal of Materials Chemistry A, the home for high impact applications, properties and synthesis of exciting new materials for energy and sustainability. New articles will be added to this collection as soon as possible after publication.