Themed collection Journal of Materials Chemistry A Recent Review Articles
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Light-material interfaces for self-powered optoelectronics
This review overviews light-material interface technologies for realizing a self-powered wearable optoelectronic system.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25694-25705
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08892K
The role of polymers in lithium solid-state batteries with inorganic solid electrolytes
Polymers in the form of composite electrolytes, as binders and as protective coatings are used to modify interfaces and to facilitate the manufacture of lithium solid-state batteries with inorganic solid electrolytes.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18701-18732
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA02796D
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Separation enhanced methanol and dimethyl ether synthesis
Recent developments in separation enhanced reaction processes using membranes and adsorbents, highlighted here, have proven their potential for carbon dioxide conversion to methanol and dimethyl ether.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 14627-14629
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA03405G
CO2 electrochemical reduction on metal–organic framework catalysts: current status and future directions
The versatility of MOFs is ideal for designing efficient CO2RR electrocatalysts, yet their poor stability and conductivity needs to be improved.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5899-5917
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA10440C
Spatially resolved and quantitatively revealed charge transfer between single atoms and catalyst supports
The direction and spatial distribution of charge transfer between a single atom and its support are key factors for SAC performance.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5889-5898
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08353H
Single-atom-based catalysts for photoelectrocatalysis: challenges and opportunities
This perspective outlines recent advances, future opportunities and challenges in the research field of single-atom-based catalysts (SACs) in the photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) system.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5878-5888
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08252C
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In situ visualisation and analysis of dynamic single atom processes in heterogeneous catalysts
Heterogeneous chemical reactions catalyzed over solid surfaces at operating temperatures are used to produce a vital part of energy, food, healthcare products, cleaner environments and chemicals.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5850-5862
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08307D
Single-atom catalysts: stimulating electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction in the industrial era
Carbon monoxide and formic acid play a significant role in industrial processes and are exceedingly economical C1 products in electrochemical CO2 reduction reactions (ECR).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5863-5877
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07778C
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A synopsis of progressive transition in precursor inks development for metal halide perovskites-based photovoltaic technology
Precursor inks development contributed significantly to rapid escalations in solar-to-electrical conversion efficiencies of peorvskite solar cell technology.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26650-26668
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06556D
Polymers in molten inorganic salt hydrate phase change materials: solubility and gelation
Molten inorganic salt hydrates as unique solvents for polymers and the application of polymer gels for thermal energy storage are highlighted.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25892-25913
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07842A
A critical discussion on the analysis of buried interfaces in Li solid-state batteries. Ex situ and in situ/operando studies
Rigorous approaches to study electro-chemo-mechanical processes at the analytically challenging buried interfaces in solid-state batteries are discussed. Furthermore, new experiments evidence potential misinterpretations in depth-profiling studies.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25341-25368
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA04532F
In-depth understanding of the energy loss and efficiency limit of dye-sensitized solar cells under outdoor and indoor conditions
This perspective thoroughly explores the energy loss factors in DSSCs and estimates the feasible efficiency of DSSCs under outdoor and indoor conditions, and compares it with the SQ limit of an ideal solar cell.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 24830-24848
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA03309C
Thermocatalytic formic acid dehydrogenation: recent advances and emerging trends
As a state-of-the-art resource for in situ hydrogen supply, formic acid has recently attracted considerable attention due to its advantages of high hydrogen content, low toxicity, and easy storage and transportation.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 24241-24260
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05910F
Solid oxide proton conductors beyond perovskites
Solid oxide proton conductors have application in hydrogen-based energy technologies. This perspective presents an overview of the structural and mechanistic aspects of proton conduction in oxide systems outside conventional perovskite conductors.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18836-18856
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA03499E
Engineering plasmonic semiconductors for enhanced photocatalysis
This perspective provides an outlook on the advancing research regarding on strategies to engineer plasmonic semiconductors for enhanced photocatalysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18818-18835
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA04541E
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Anti-perovskites for solid-state batteries: recent developments, current challenges and future prospects
For the first time, we highlight recent experimental and atomistic modelling insights into Li- and Na-rich anti-perovskite battery materials, with particular attention given to their synthesisability, structures, ion transport and interfaces.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18746-18772
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA03680G
Emerging elemental two-dimensional materials for energy applications
Elemental two-dimensional (2D) materials possess distinct properties and superior performances across a multitude of fundamental and practical research fields.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18793-18817
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA03676A
Materials and system design for direct electrochemical CO2 conversion in capture media
Integration of upstream CO2 capture and downstream electrochemical conversion by direct electrolysis of CO2 capture media offers a potential solution to energy- and cost-efficient utilisation of CO2.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18785-18792
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA02751D
Designing the electronic and geometric structures of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts
This perspective showcases the interplay between electronic and geometric structures with respect to the catalytic properties of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18773-18784
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA02723A
Two-dimensional building blocks for photocatalytic ammonia production
This perspective summarizes the design and synthesis of two-dimensional building block based photocatalysts for light-induced NH3 production. The structure–performance relationship and mechanism of photocatalysts are highlighted.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 18733-18745
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TA11201A
Commercialisation of high energy density sodium-ion batteries: Faradion's journey and outlook
The thinking behind Faradion's historical and current commercial Na-ion technology and the importance of some crucial experimental factors in battery research are discussed.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 8279-8302
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA00376C
Perylene diimide based non-fullerene acceptors: top performers and an emerging class featuring N-annulation
This perspective showcases new materials designs for perylene diimide based non-fullerene acceptors towards high performance photovoltaic devices.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 6775-6789
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TA11197J
Conductive carbonaceous membranes: recent progress and future opportunities
Conductive carbonaceous membranes are a cost-effective, scalable platform to electrify membranes for fouling mitigation, contaminant degradation, and increased permeate selectivity.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 3270-3289
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TA08928A
Envisioned strategy for an early intervention in virus-suspected patients through non-invasive piezo- and pyro-electric-based wearable sensors
This perspective explores the scope of piezo- and pyro-electric wearable sensors towards the early intervention of virus-affected patients, particularly in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 1887-1909
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0TA08547B
Chemical lattice strain in nonstoichiometric oxides: an overview
This article reviews the state of the art – from the experimental and computational data available to the models, origins and possible uses – in the field of chemical strain of oxide materials (primarily those for elevated-temperature applications).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 6351-6375
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08407K
1D confined materials synthesized via a coating method for thermal catalysis and energy storage applications
Coating method has been extensively applied to prepare 1D confined materials, showing outstanding performance for thermal catalysis and energy storage applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 6330-6350
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA10540J
Stability of single-atom catalysts for electrocatalysis
The recent advances in the stability of SACs, including the selection of metals and supports, synthetic strategies, and the catalytic stability in electrocatalysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5835-5849
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08582D
Support-based modulation strategies in single-atom catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction: graphene and conjugated macrocyclic complexes
An overview of two types of SACs for the CO2RR and the corresponding strategies to regulate the catalytic activity.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5699-5716
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA09069K
Synchrotron-radiation spectroscopic identification towards diverse local environments of single-atom catalysts
The unique structures of single-atom catalysts (SACs) endow them with widespread energy applications. This review summarized the achievements of multifarious synchrotron-radiation characterization methods in studying the local environments of SACs.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5771-5791
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08254J
Mechanistic understanding and design of non-noble metal-based single-atom catalysts supported on two-dimensional materials for CO2 electroreduction
This review delivers an overview of non-noble metal-based single-atom catalysts (SACs) for CO2RR and provides insights into mechanistic understanding from different aspects.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5813-5834
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08337F
Polyoxometalate-based materials: quasi-homogeneous single-atom catalysts with atomic-precision structures
This perspective provides an overview and outlook of polyoxometalate-based single-atom catalysts with atomic-precision structures and wide-ranging functionalities, including isolated POM clusters, POM-based assemblies, and supported POM structures.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5758-5770
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08577H
Synergistically enhanced single-atomic site catalysts for clean energy conversion
This review highlights several important electrocatalytic reactions performed over single-atomic synergistic structures, including SAC-nanoparticles (SAC-NPs), SAC-clusters (SACCs), dual-atom sites (DACs), and single-atomic alloys (SAAs).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5673-5698
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08561A
Single atoms supported on metal oxides for energy catalysis
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted wide interest from researchers, as they promisingly bridge the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5717-5742
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08016D
Single-atom catalysts for thermal- and electro-catalytic hydrogenation reactions
The review highlights recent advances and remaining challenges in single atom catalysts for thermal- and electro-catalytic hydrogenation reactions.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 5743-5757
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07910G
Doping strategy and mechanism for oxide and sulfide solid electrolytes with high ionic conductivity
Ionic conductivity is a critical parameter required for superionic conductors to be successfully applied as solid electrolytes in all-solid-state batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 4517-4532
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA10966A
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Silica: ubiquitous poison of metal oxide interfaces
In this review, we consider the detrimental effects of Si-contamination on electrochemical applications, broadly conceived, in which both ions and electrons play key roles in device operation and where exchange of oxygen between the gas and solid phase is likewise essential for operation.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 2618-2636
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08469K
Non-lithium-based metal ion capacitors: recent advances and perspectives
A comprehensive overview of the research progress toward non-lithium metal ion capacitors, including the mechanisms, electrode materials, electrolytes, and novel device designs, is presented with further perspectives.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 357-378
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA09119K
Metal halide perovskites for photocatalysis applications
The unique properties and structures of metal halide perovskite materials desired for a variety of photocatalytic applications in water splitting, CO2 reduction, pollutant degradation, and organic synthesis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 407-429
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA09148D
The gorgeous transformation of paper: from cellulose paper to inorganic paper to 2D paper materials with multifunctional properties
A novel perspective is proposed to display the diversified development of 2D paper-like materials in the environment and energy fields.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 122-156
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08410K
Structural design and mechanism analysis of hierarchical porous carbon fibers for advanced energy and environmental applications
The progress in the synthesis of porous carbon fibers and their performance improvement mechanisms for energy and environmental applications are comprehensively reviewed, providing guidelines for the future development of this emerging material.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 10-49
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08646D
Recent advances in non-precious group metal-based catalysts for water electrolysis and beyond
This review outlines the strategies and challenges of the state-of-the-art non-precious group metal-based catalysts toward water electrolysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2022,10, 50-88
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06548C
Solar-driven interfacial evaporation toward clean water production: burgeoning materials, concepts and technologies
Burgeoning materials, concepts and technologies for solar-driven interfacial evaporation have been reviewed.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27121-27139
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08886F
3D printing of metal–organic framework composite materials for clean energy and environmental applications
Rising CO2 levels strain the planet's ecosystems. New technologies are required to combat this climate emergency. Metal–organic frameworks and additive manufacturing provide options for gas storage and separations, water remediation, light generation, and catalysis.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27252-27270
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08777K
Viologens: a versatile organic molecule for energy storage applications
This review analyses the role of viologens, a unique class of redox-active molecules in various energy storage devices and the nature of chemical interactions in enhancing their overall performances.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27215-27233
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07201C
An overview of porous silica immobilized amines for direct air CO2 capture
A comprehensive overview on porous silica immobilized amines as efficient materials for direct air CO2 capture.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27271-27303
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05961K
Recent advances in photo-assisted electrocatalysts for energy conversion
The review highlights the recent advances and challenges in photo-assisted electrocatalysis, including photo-generated carrier-assisted, LSPR-assisted, and photothermally-assisted ones.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27193-27214
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06216F
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Naphthalene diimide-based electron transport materials for perovskite solar cells
Overview and strategies for assessing chemical function, properties and application of naphthalene diimide (NDI) as an effective electron transport layer (ETL) in perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27170-27192
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08424K
MOFs and their derivatives as Sn-based anode materials for lithium/sodium ion batteries
The increasing research of Sn-MOFs and Sn-based MOF-derivatives opens new avenues in promising anode materials for lithium/sodium ion batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27234-27251
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06996A
A comparative overview of carbon anodes for nonaqueous alkali metal-ion batteries
The review elaborates on the mechanism of alkali metal ion storage of various carbon materials and several engineering strategies for improving carbon-based alkali metal ion batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 27140-27169
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07962J
Recent progress on post-synthetic treatments of photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
The review summarizes various post-synthetic treatments reported in the past five years, including chemical treatments, electrochemical and irradiation-based treatments, and post-annealing treatments, for PEC water splitting application.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26628-26649
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05935A
Flexible one-dimensional Zn-based electrochemical energy storage devices: recent progress and future perspectives
This review article summarizes the development of one-dimensional Zn-based electrochemical energy storage devices. The existing obstacles are diagnosed, corresponding solutions are proposed, and future research directions are indicated accordingly.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26573-26602
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07832A
Carbon fibre surface chemistry and its role in fibre-to-matrix adhesion
A key determinant for carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) performance is their fibre-matrix interactions at the interface and interphase. These allow for stress transfer from the relatively weak and ductile resin to the strong reinforcing fibres.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26528-26572
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07151C
An overview of the materials and methodologies for CO2 capture under humid conditions
This review presents recent trends, advances, and innovations in the field of CO2 capture from humid streams. The critical challenges in the field and potential solutions to overcome these issues are discussed in detail.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26498-26527
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08862A
Supercapacitors operated at extremely low environmental temperatures
This review describes recent advances relating to the optimization of electrode and electrolyte materials for use in SC cells that can operate at extremely low temperatures.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26603-26627
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08538G
Ordered mesoporous photocatalysts for CO2 photoreduction
This review provides a comprehensive guide to classifying the configurations of ordered mesoporous photocatalysts, as well as summarising their most recent developments with respect to CO2 photoreduction and strategies to improve their CO2 photoreduction performance.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26430-26453
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05643C
Recent progress and prospects of polymeric hollow fiber membranes for gas application, water vapor separation and particulate matter removal
High-performance hollow fiber membranes can be produced through proper tailoring of spinning parameters.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 26454-26497
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07093B
Synthesis of metalloporphyrin-based porous organic polymers and their functionalization for conversion of CO2 into cyclic carbonates: recent advances, opportunities and challenges
This review summarized the recent advances made in the task-specific design and synthesis of metalloporphyrin-based porous organic polymers (POPs) and their functionalization for conversion of CO2 into cyclic carbonates.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25731-25749
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08146B
Modulation of carbon induced persulfate activation by nitrogen dopants: recent advances and perspectives
N dopants could regulate the electronic structure of carbon matrix, improve the adsorption affinity between carbon surface and PS anions, and thus pose significant effect on the carbon induced PS-AOPs.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25796-25826
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08335J
Understanding the charge storage mechanism of supercapacitors: in situ/operando spectroscopic approaches and theoretical investigations
This review provides insights into the charge storage mechanism of supercapacitors based on in situ characterization techniques together with theoretical investigations.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25852-25891
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07401F
Recent progress in tackling Zn anode challenges for Zn ion batteries
Recent process in tackling Zn anode challenges is summarized, including designing anode structure, modifying electrolyte, optimizing separator and developing polymer electrolytes, which present a reference for constructing high-performance ZIBs.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25750-25772
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08184E
Recent advances in carbon substrate supported nonprecious nanoarrays for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
A summary of synthetic strategies, catalytic performance, current challenges, and future prospects is provided for nanoarray catalysts constructed on free-standing carbon substrates for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25773-25795
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA08039C
Surface and interface engineering of hollow carbon sphere-based electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Recent developments of hollow carbon sphere-based materials as efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are summarized, particularly focusing on surface and interface engineering strategies that greatly enhance ORR performance.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25706-25730
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06913F
Emulsion templated advanced functional materials from emerging nano building blocks
The latest progress in emulsion templating of emerging nano building blocks and materials including monoliths, films and microcapsules is summarized. Typical applications of these functional materials are critically discussed in various fields.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25827-25851
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05420A
Recent progress of inert anodes for carbon-free aluminium electrolysis: a review and outlook
This review introduces the latest research progress of inert anodes for aluminium electrolysis and compares the comprehensive performances of different kinds of materials, including metals, ceramics and cermets.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25272-25285
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA07198J
Advanced metal–organic framework-based membranes with ion selectivity for boosting electrochemical energy storage and conversion
This review summarizes the recent advances of metal–organic framework-based membranes with ion selectivity for electrochemical energy storage and conversion applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25325-25340
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06745A
Large MOFs: synthesis strategies and applications where size matters
Large (usually more than 30 μm) single crystal 3D and especially 2D metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of porous materials having great potential to be applied in high-resolution chromatography, separation, photonics, and optoelectronics.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25258-25271
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA05283G
3D printing of advanced lithium batteries: a designing strategy of electrode/electrolyte architectures
The major applications of 3D-printed technologies in lithium batteries.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25237-25257
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06683H
Recent trends in template assisted 3D porous materials for electrochemical supercapacitors
This review delivers a comprehensive overview of the various experimental approaches used to fabricate three-dimensional porous materials decorating with organic and inorganic materials for supercapacitor applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 25286-25324
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06122D
Synthesis, formation mechanisms and applications of biomass-derived carbonaceous materials: a critical review
Synthesis and formation mechanisms of biomass-derived carbonaceous materials are critically reviewed in terms of biomass sources, conversion methods and additives for energy and environmental applications.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 24759-24802
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06874A
Carbon-based single atom catalysts for tailoring the ORR pathway: a concise review
Synthetic methodologies, structure-dependent catalytic properties and synergistic catalysis of C-SACs for the ORR are briefly reviewed to deepen researchers' understanding of this field and design more efficient targeted electrocatalysts.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021,9, 24803-24829
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1TA06144E
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.