Themed collection Journal of Materials Chemistry A Emerging Investigators 2024

165 items - Showing page 1 of 3
Profile

Contributors to the Journal of Materials Chemistry A Emerging Investigators 2024 collection

The Journal of Materials Chemistry A Emerging Investigators collection gathers some of the best research being conducted by materials scientists in the early stages of their independent career. Congratulations to all of the researchers featured.

Graphical abstract: Contributors to the Journal of Materials Chemistry A Emerging Investigators 2024 collection
Open Access Perspective

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.

Graphical abstract: Complementary X-ray and neutron imaging of water electrolysers for green hydrogen production
Perspective

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.

Graphical abstract: Structural determination of covalent organic frameworks through diffraction methods
Review Article

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.

Graphical abstract: Dual-atom catalysts with microenvironment regulation for water electrolysis
Review Article

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.

Graphical abstract: Breaking boundaries of soft photocatalysis: overcoming limitations of carbon nitride as a single-light absorber for overall water splitting
Review Article

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.

Graphical abstract: Recent advances of ruthenium-based materials for acidic oxygen evolution reaction: from catalyst design to proton exchange membrane water electrolysers
Open Access Review Article

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.

Graphical abstract: Latest advances in in situ and operando X-ray-based techniques for the characterisation of photoelectrocatalytic systems
Review Article

Wearable electrochemical bioelectronics for agriculture

Recent advances in wearable electrochemical bioelectronics offer promising solutions for sensitive, real-time detection of biomarkers in agriculture.

Graphical abstract: Wearable electrochemical bioelectronics for agriculture
Review Article

Progress and perspectives on electrocatalytic transmembrane hydrogenation

This review summarizes the developments of Pd membrane reactors to drive electrochemical hydrogenation of unsaturated compounds including gaseous reagents. It highlights the design of Pd-based catalysts and their utilization to drive hydrogenation.

Graphical abstract: Progress and perspectives on electrocatalytic transmembrane hydrogenation
Review Article

Regulation of intermediate microenvironment for efficient C–C coupling in electrochemical CO2 reduction

This review summarizes the recent progress in the regulation of local reaction intermediates and protons near active sites and discusses how their microenvironment affects the C–C coupling efficiency in the electrocatalytic CO2RR.

Graphical abstract: Regulation of intermediate microenvironment for efficient C–C coupling in electrochemical CO2 reduction
Review Article

Single-molecule fluorescence imaging of photocatalytic nanomaterials

Single-molecule fluorescence imaging offers high spatiotemporal resolution and enables quantitative, operando studies of photocatalytic nanomaterials at the single- or sub-particle level.

Graphical abstract: Single-molecule fluorescence imaging of photocatalytic nanomaterials
Review Article

Recent advances in upgrading CO2 to C3+ products via electrochemical and complementary engineering

This review summarizes the latest advances in material development and process design for electrochemically upgrading CO2 to value-added C3+ chemicals.

Graphical abstract: Recent advances in upgrading CO2 to C3+ products via electrochemical and complementary engineering
Review Article

The revival of 4H-cyclopenta[2,1-b:3,4-b′]dithiophene (CPDT) driven by low-cost and high-performance nonfused-ring electron acceptors

This review comprehensively summarizes the development history of CPDT-based organic photovoltaic materials, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the revival of CPDT driven by low-cost acceptors.

Graphical abstract: The revival of 4H-cyclopenta[2,1-b:3,4-b′]dithiophene (CPDT) driven by low-cost and high-performance nonfused-ring electron acceptors
Open Access Review Article

Thermoelectrics for nuclear fusion reactors: opportunities and challenges

In this review, we discuss the promising applications and practical considerations of thermoelectrics to harvest the unutilized thermal gradient between the plasma-facing surfaces and the molten salt coolant loop in tokamak fusion reactors.

Graphical abstract: Thermoelectrics for nuclear fusion reactors: opportunities and challenges
Review Article

Smart three-phase interface heterojunctions for effective photo(electro)catalytic N2 reduction to ammonia

Light-driven three-phase interface catalysts for the production of green ammonia as one of the key future energy carriers for the net-zero carbon landscape.

Graphical abstract: Smart three-phase interface heterojunctions for effective photo(electro)catalytic N2 reduction to ammonia
Review Article

Synthesis and electrocatalytic applications of hybrid nanomaterials containing low-dimensional metals

In this review, recent progress in the synthesis and electrocatalytic applications of hybrid nanomaterials containing low-dimensional metals was outlined and some promising future directions were proposed.

Graphical abstract: Synthesis and electrocatalytic applications of hybrid nanomaterials containing low-dimensional metals
Review Article

Polythiophene and its derivatives for all-polymer solar cells

We review polythiophene and its derivative (PT)-based polymer donors for all-PSCs, focusing on material design, morphology optimization strategies, and the selection and design of polymer acceptors that complement their properties.

Graphical abstract: Polythiophene and its derivatives for all-polymer solar cells
Review Article

Designing low-strain cathode materials for long-life all-solid-state batteries

This review provides valuable insights and suggestions for future research on designing low-strain cathode materials for long-life and high-energy-density all-solid-state batteries under low external pressure conditions.

Graphical abstract: Designing low-strain cathode materials for long-life all-solid-state batteries
Review Article

Immobilization of metal active centers in reticular framework materials for photocatalytic energy conversion

To enhance the economy and society's sustainability, prioritizing innovative, green energy conversion methods is essential.

Graphical abstract: Immobilization of metal active centers in reticular framework materials for photocatalytic energy conversion
Review Article

Advanced polyanionic cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries: from crystal structures, reaction mechanisms, design strategies to future perspectives

This review summarizes the latest research progress in polyanionic cathodes for aqueous Zn-ion batteries from the perspectives of crystal structure, reaction mechanism, and design strategy, finally highlights potential challenges and future outlook.

Graphical abstract: Advanced polyanionic cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries: from crystal structures, reaction mechanisms, design strategies to future perspectives
Open Access Communication

Self-supported antimony tin oxide anode with Sb segregation promoted atrazine removal

Sintering-driven Sb segregation induced a built-in electronic field in a self-supported Sb–SnO2 anode, promoting reaction electron transfer in electrochemical ROS generation.

Graphical abstract: Self-supported antimony tin oxide anode with Sb segregation promoted atrazine removal
Communication

Electronic regulation of carbon sites by oxygenated groups for electrochemical oxygen reduction to H2O2

A mild condition controllable synthesis of –CHO regulates the electronic state of carbon sites for selective electrochemical oxygen reduction to H2O2.

Graphical abstract: Electronic regulation of carbon sites by oxygenated groups for electrochemical oxygen reduction to H2O2
Communication

Electrochemical CO2-to-CO via enriched oxygen vacancies at gold/ceria interfaces

We report a strategy of catalyst design to modulate oxygen vacancies through the control of Au/ceria interface structures, promoting Au activity for carbon monoxide production in carbon dioxide electroreduction.

Graphical abstract: Electrochemical CO2-to-CO via enriched oxygen vacancies at gold/ceria interfaces
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Communication

Potential-driven restructuring of lithium cobalt oxide yields an enhanced active phase for the oxygen evolution reaction

Increasing the oxidation potential improved electrochemical performance by inducing LiCoO2 delithiation and restructuring into β-CoOOH. Raman spectroscopy revealed heterogeneity and dynamic phase evolution within and between particles.

Graphical abstract: Potential-driven restructuring of lithium cobalt oxide yields an enhanced active phase for the oxygen evolution reaction
Open Access Communication

Particulate gel liquid marbles

Non-sticking water droplets covered with a particulate gel, namely particulate gel liquid marbles (PGLMs), exhibited high mechanical stability due to the viscous dissipation of the PG.

Graphical abstract: Particulate gel liquid marbles
Communication

Realizing a single-phase reaction and K+/vacancy disordering in P2-K0.56Na0.11Li0.12Ni0.22Mn0.66O2 by lithium substitution for potassium-ion batteries

Through the electrochemical ion-exchange method, P2-K0.56Na0.11Li0.12Ni0.22Mn0.66O2 was successfully synthesized as a high-performance cathode with a single-phase reaction and K+/vacancy disordering for potassium-ion batteries.

Graphical abstract: Realizing a single-phase reaction and K+/vacancy disordering in P2-K0.56Na0.11Li0.12Ni0.22Mn0.66O2 by lithium substitution for potassium-ion batteries
Communication

Bio-inspired sustained entrainment in immiscible liquid–liquid systems for collecting floating oil

Entrainment, where a solid object in a liquid bath moves towards the air phase, is common in industry and daily-life.

Graphical abstract: Bio-inspired sustained entrainment in immiscible liquid–liquid systems for collecting floating oil
Communication

Recognizing chiral amino acids with a dual-optical-response system

Histidine/tryptophan and their enantiomers were stepwise recognized by a dual-optical-response system, responding to fluorescence intensity variation and chiroptical activity regulation.

Graphical abstract: Recognizing chiral amino acids with a dual-optical-response system
Open Access Paper

Mg-rich disordered rocksalt oxide cathodes for Mg-ion batteries

Mg-rich disordered rocksalt oxides, Mg2TMO3, are examined as cathodes for Mg-ion batteries. Although Mg2+ cannot easily be extracted from these compounds, we show that Mg2+ can be mobile in other cubic close-packed disordered rocksalts, Li2−xMnO2F.

Graphical abstract: Mg-rich disordered rocksalt oxide cathodes for Mg-ion batteries
Paper

Synergistic dual-interface engineering with self-organizing Li-ion/electric fields for enhanced lithium metal anode stability

A self-organizing, dual-modified interface for lithium metal anodes that significantly improves uniform lithium deposition and enhances electroplating/stripping performance.

Graphical abstract: Synergistic dual-interface engineering with self-organizing Li-ion/electric fields for enhanced lithium metal anode stability
Paper

Gram-scale production of vertically aligned holey graphene nanosheet arrays derived from a renewable biomass precursor via a facile hydrothermal/salt-assisted pyrolysis method for aqueous high-performance redox supercapacitors

Vertically aligned graphene nanosheet via facile hydrothermal/salt-assisted pyrolysis (HSP) method for high-performance redox supercapacitors.

Graphical abstract: Gram-scale production of vertically aligned holey graphene nanosheet arrays derived from a renewable biomass precursor via a facile hydrothermal/salt-assisted pyrolysis method for aqueous high-performance redox supercapacitors
Paper

Additive-free graphene-based inks for 3D printing functional conductive aerogels

This study demonstrates an all-graphene, additive-free aqueous-based ink for direct ink writing (DIW) to 3D-print functional aerogels for electronics and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shields.

Graphical abstract: Additive-free graphene-based inks for 3D printing functional conductive aerogels
Open Access Paper

Synthesis, optical, electronic and magnetic studies of air-stable chiral Cu(II) chlorides

The development of polar MHSs with competitive chiroptical and magnetic properties, featuring record air stability of over a year.

Graphical abstract: Synthesis, optical, electronic and magnetic studies of air-stable chiral Cu(ii) chlorides
Paper

A three-dimensional printed Si/rGO anode for flexible Li-ion batteries

A 3D-printed Si/rGO anode with a porous grid-like structure was well designed and synthesized and exhibits an excellent electrochemical performance in flexible lithium-ion batteries.

Graphical abstract: A three-dimensional printed Si/rGO anode for flexible Li-ion batteries
Open Access Paper

Unraveling the significance of the zinc ratio in water-in-salt electrolytes

Existence of an optimal Zn2+ concentration ratio within water-in-salt electrolytes to achieve better Zn anode cycling stability.

Graphical abstract: Unraveling the significance of the zinc ratio in water-in-salt electrolytes
Open Access Paper

The effect of interface heterogeneity on zinc metal anode cyclability

The surface of a zinc metal anode was mapped using SECM. Slow Zn2+ transport can be caused by an insulating SEI (ZHS or ZnO) or horizontally plated zinc. Fast Zn2+ transport can be caused by a protruding morphology or a more conducting SEI.

Graphical abstract: The effect of interface heterogeneity on zinc metal anode cyclability
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Open Access Paper

Mineralogical characteristics influence the structure and pozzolanic reactivity of thermally and mechano-chemically activated meta-kaolinites

Mechano-chemical activation enhances early age (<12 hours) pozzolanic reactivity of clays by transforming kaolinite to meta-kaolinite, reducing particle size, and potentially increasing the edge : basal surface area ratio of meta-kaolinite.

Graphical abstract: Mineralogical characteristics influence the structure and pozzolanic reactivity of thermally and mechano-chemically activated meta-kaolinites
Paper

Evolution of high spin state single-atom catalyst active centers in Na–O2 batteries

Compared to O2@MN4, O2@MN3 with high spin state favors side-on mode, which enhances the coupling between 3dxy orbital of metal and O2, hence causes the evolution of active center from MN3 to (OMO)N3, and increases the performance of Na–O2 batteries.

Graphical abstract: Evolution of high spin state single-atom catalyst active centers in Na–O2 batteries
Paper

Bismuth single-atom alloying of palladium nanosheets promotes selective electrochemical valorization of glycerol to C3 products

Bi atoms dispersed on Pd nanosheets promote electrochemical glycerol oxidation to C3 products by modulating the Pd electronic structure and lowering the adsorption energy of reaction intermediates.

Graphical abstract: Bismuth single-atom alloying of palladium nanosheets promotes selective electrochemical valorization of glycerol to C3 products
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Paper

Understanding water-gas shift reaction mechanisms at palladium–ceria interfaces using in situ SERS coupled with online mass spectrometry

In situ SERS coupled with online mass spectrometry reveals that CO adsorbed on Pd can efficiently react with oxygen species formed from water dissociation at the Ce3+ sites nearby, thus leading to improved performance at the Pd–CeO2 interfaces.

Graphical abstract: Understanding water-gas shift reaction mechanisms at palladium–ceria interfaces using in situ SERS coupled with online mass spectrometry
Open Access Paper

Enhancing the oxygen evolution reaction activity of CuCo based hydroxides with V2CTx MXene

V2CTx MXene improves the OER performances of CuCo catalysts. The MXene over time reduces the leaching rate of the Cu by itself being preferentially leached which also allows for the higher OER activity to be maintained.

Graphical abstract: Enhancing the oxygen evolution reaction activity of CuCo based hydroxides with V2CTx MXene
Paper

Synergistic surface modulation with isotropic 2D GA2PbI4 and Lewis base enhances efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells

Guanidinium acetate (GAAc) was applied to treat a perovskite film for fabricating n–i–p perovskite solar cells. The synergistic effect of GA+ and Ac on regulating the perovskite surface enabled high-efficiency and stable perovskite solar cells.

Graphical abstract: Synergistic surface modulation with isotropic 2D GA2PbI4 and Lewis base enhances efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Paper

Experimental trends and theoretical descriptors for electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to formate over Sn-based bimetallic catalysts

Understanding CO2RR selectivity of Sn-based catalysts by considering both the real-time structural evolution of catalysts and all key intermediates involved.

Graphical abstract: Experimental trends and theoretical descriptors for electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to formate over Sn-based bimetallic catalysts
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Paper

A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst for synchronous desulfurization and hydrogen evolution by a self-driven system

A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst, designed through heterojunction engineering and elaborate nanostructuring, has been developed for self-powered simultaneous hydrogen production and sulfur recovery.

Graphical abstract: A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst for synchronous desulfurization and hydrogen evolution by a self-driven system
Paper

Quantitative nanoscopic imaging of adsorbent-aggregation-state dependent molecular binding cooperativity

Super-resolution microscopy reveals the impact of adsorbent clustering on adsorption heterogeneity and cooperativity in pollutant removal.

Graphical abstract: Quantitative nanoscopic imaging of adsorbent-aggregation-state dependent molecular binding cooperativity
Paper

Twin boundaries induced by high-temperature shock boost the structural stability of Li-rich layered-oxide

A non-equilibrium high-temperature shock (HTS) strategy, accompanied with the processes of rapid heating and cooling, is reported to introduce twin boundaries (TBs) into Li1.2Ni0.13Co0.13Mn0.54O2.

Graphical abstract: Twin boundaries induced by high-temperature shock boost the structural stability of Li-rich layered-oxide
Paper

Electrolyte engineering for the mass exfoliation of graphene oxide across wide oxidation degrees

Herein, we report a two-step electrochemical approach encompassing pre-intercalation and post-exfoliation/oxidation, enabling the mass exfoliation of graphene oxide with customizable oxidation levels on a timescale of minutes.

Graphical abstract: Electrolyte engineering for the mass exfoliation of graphene oxide across wide oxidation degrees
From the themed collection: Journal of Materials Chemistry A HOT Papers
Paper

Ultrafast Joule heating-induced formation of amorphous CoFeNi phosphate for efficient and stable oxygen evolution reaction

A facile, rapid Joule heating protocol for forming amorphous-structured transition metal phosphate electrocatalysts with low overpotentials, fast kinetics, and long-term stability for oxygen evolution reaction (OER).

Graphical abstract: Ultrafast Joule heating-induced formation of amorphous CoFeNi phosphate for efficient and stable oxygen evolution reaction
Paper

Interfacial insights for divergent dendrite formation mechanisms in lithium and magnesium anodes

Impact of SEI component variability in Li and Mg anodes on dendrite formation: influences of plating tendency and electron transfer.

Graphical abstract: Interfacial insights for divergent dendrite formation mechanisms in lithium and magnesium anodes
Open Access Paper

Bulk-independent surface oxide composition controls the electrochemical performance of high-entropy alloys

Low-energy ion scattering revealed the true reactive surface composition of high-entropy alloys, differing significantly from the bulk. No significant enhancement in OER performance was observed with high-entropy alloying compared to simpler alloys.

Graphical abstract: Bulk-independent surface oxide composition controls the electrochemical performance of high-entropy alloys
Paper

Transition metal chalcogenide nanoparticle embedded metal–organic framework nanosheets for high-performance H2O2 electrosynthesis

Through a partial conversion route using NiFe-MOF nanosheets as precursors, a transition-metal chalcogenide@metal–organic framework (TMC@MOF) composite was fabricated as an efficient 2e-ORR electrocatalyst.

Graphical abstract: Transition metal chalcogenide nanoparticle embedded metal–organic framework nanosheets for high-performance H2O2 electrosynthesis
Paper

The response of charge transfer properties to electric fields in organic semiconductors: a comprehensive theoretical investigation

External electric fields could affect the charge mobility properties of organic semiconductors at a great level. Such influence is realized by changing the geometry and packing structure.

Graphical abstract: The response of charge transfer properties to electric fields in organic semiconductors: a comprehensive theoretical investigation
Paper

Direct construction of interconnected Si3N4 nanowire networks for enhancing the thermal conductivity and mechanical performance of flexible composite films

An innovative strategy for the direct construction of continuous thermally conductive networks composed of ultra-long Si3N4NWs is proposed.

Graphical abstract: Direct construction of interconnected Si3N4 nanowire networks for enhancing the thermal conductivity and mechanical performance of flexible composite films
Paper

Atomically dispersed Ru doped on IrOx sub-nanoclusters for enhanced oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media

Atomically dispersed Ru doped on IrOx sub-nanocluster is fabricated for acidic oxygen evolution reaction, showing a low overpotential of 237 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and high durability by sustaining a current of 100 mA cm−2 for 150 hours.

Graphical abstract: Atomically dispersed Ru doped on IrOx sub-nanoclusters for enhanced oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media
Open Access Paper

Multifunctionalized zirconium-based MOF as a novel support for dispersed copper: application in CO2 adsorption and catalytic conversion

A novel multifunctionalized NU-1000 MOF-Cu material is designed for CO2 adsorption and catalytic conversion. This Cu-based catalyst is active in electrocatalysis and has excellent selectivity to methanol formation in thermocatalytic hydrogenation.

Graphical abstract: Multifunctionalized zirconium-based MOF as a novel support for dispersed copper: application in CO2 adsorption and catalytic conversion
Paper

Oxygen vacancy-triggered performance enhancement of toluene oxidation over Cu catalysts: a combined kinetics and mechanistic investigation

The oxygen vacancy-tuned rate-relevant step for toluene oxidation is revealed by a combined kinetics and mechanistic investigation over Cu catalysts.

Graphical abstract: Oxygen vacancy-triggered performance enhancement of toluene oxidation over Cu catalysts: a combined kinetics and mechanistic investigation
Paper

Electrocatalysts work better in lean-electrolyte lithium–sulfur batteries

The cathode kinetics promotion effectiveness of electrocatalysts is evaluated in lean-electrolyte lithium–sulfur batteries. The improvement of polysulfide conversion kinetics and battery performance is more significant at higher sulfur concentration.

Graphical abstract: Electrocatalysts work better in lean-electrolyte lithium–sulfur batteries
Paper

Synthesis of TiO2 nanotube arrays on 3D-printed structures for application as Fischer–Tropsch synthesis catalysts

3D-printed FeCo/TiO2 nanotube catalysts are used for the first time in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and demonstrate considerable catalytic activity.

Graphical abstract: Synthesis of TiO2 nanotube arrays on 3D-printed structures for application as Fischer–Tropsch synthesis catalysts
Paper

F-coordinated single-atom Ru species: efficient and durable catalysts for photo-thermal synergistic catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to methane

We show that fine-tuning of coordination structure of Ru sites can significantly enhance performances for CO2 hydrogenation to methane under mild conditions in a photo-thermal synergistic catalytic process.

Graphical abstract: F-coordinated single-atom Ru species: efficient and durable catalysts for photo-thermal synergistic catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to methane
Open Access Paper

Sodium 4-styrenesulfonyl(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide-based single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte incorporating molecular transporters for quasi-solid-state sodium batteries

A sodium salt monomer-based single-ion polymer electrolyte was designed, and as proof of concept, a quasi-solid-state sodium–metal cell, using Prussian White cathode, was manufactured, which delivers a capacity of 147 mA h g−1.

Graphical abstract: Sodium 4-styrenesulfonyl(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide-based single-ion conducting polymer electrolyte incorporating molecular transporters for quasi-solid-state sodium batteries
Paper

Benchmarking ionomers for CO2 electroreduction to multicarbon products in zero-gap electrolysers

This work benchmarks ionomers for CO2 electroreduction to multicarbon products. Ionomers with stronger hydrophobicity or having bulkier and less hydrated ionised side chains were found to favour *CO adsorption and multicarbon product formation.

Graphical abstract: Benchmarking ionomers for CO2 electroreduction to multicarbon products in zero-gap electrolysers
Open Access Paper

A cradle-to-cradle approach for successive upcycling of polyethylene to polymer electrolytes to organic acids

We demonstrate the post-synthetic conversion of polyethylene into functional polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries. To avoid end-of-life polymer electrolytes contributing to polymer waste, we further upcycle them into useful organic acids.

Graphical abstract: A cradle-to-cradle approach for successive upcycling of polyethylene to polymer electrolytes to organic acids
Paper

Improving the electronegativity of N-doped carbon by encapsulating CoFe alloy clusters with a chainmail-like structure for high-energy sodium-ion capacitors

In this work, CoFe nanoalloy clusters embedded into N-doped carbon nanofibers with hollow porous structures demonstrate superior electrochemical performance in sodium-ion capacitors, realizing excellent energy density and power density.

Graphical abstract: Improving the electronegativity of N-doped carbon by encapsulating CoFe alloy clusters with a chainmail-like structure for high-energy sodium-ion capacitors
Paper

An ultralow-concentration (0.05 M) electrolyte for advanced K-ion batteries

An ultralow-concentration (0.05 M) KFSI-based electrolyte can serve as the electrolyte for K-ion batteries, offering low cost, low viscosity, reduced corrosion risk, and impressive electrochemical performances over a wide range of temperatures.

Graphical abstract: An ultralow-concentration (0.05 M) electrolyte for advanced K-ion batteries
Paper

A lignocellulosic biomass-derived polyurethane elastomer with high toughness and excellent crack tolerance

A tough and recyclable polyurethane elastomer was successfully synthesized from liquified banana stems.

Graphical abstract: A lignocellulosic biomass-derived polyurethane elastomer with high toughness and excellent crack tolerance
Paper

Aluminium doping in single-crystal nickel-rich cathodes: insights into electrochemical degradation and enhancement

Al doped single-crystal nickel-rich NCMA cathode materials are considered one of the most promising candidates for automobile Li-ion batteries due to their high compacted density and superior cycling stability.

Graphical abstract: Aluminium doping in single-crystal nickel-rich cathodes: insights into electrochemical degradation and enhancement
Paper

Exploring the optical management and efficiency limit of luminescent solar concentrators based on advanced luminophores

This work provides new insights for predicting the efficiency limit of LSCs. The use of tandem LSCs based on luminophores of singlet-fission and CuInSe2/ZnS is considered a promising method to achieve optimal efficiency.

Graphical abstract: Exploring the optical management and efficiency limit of luminescent solar concentrators based on advanced luminophores
Paper

Customized CO2 electroreduction to methane or ethylene by manipulating *H and *CO adsorption on Cu/CeOx catalysts

We engineered Cu/CeOx and Cu/CuCeOx solid solutions, enhancing *H and *CO binding in CO2RR. Cu/CeOx boosts *H coverage via faster water dissociation, while Cu/CuCeOx augments *CO adsorption, selectively reducing CO2 to CH4 or C2H4.

Graphical abstract: Customized CO2 electroreduction to methane or ethylene by manipulating *H and *CO adsorption on Cu/CeOx catalysts
Open Access Paper

Short-range disorder mediated stability of Zn in rock-salt MgO beyond configurational entropy

In rock-salt Mg0.50TM0.25Zn0.25O, CuO is more effective in stabilizing rock-salt ZnO in MgO, compared to CoO and NiO. Cu incorporation creates a wide metal–oxygen bond length distribution and short-range disorder and enhances Zn stabilization.

Graphical abstract: Short-range disorder mediated stability of Zn in rock-salt MgO beyond configurational entropy
Paper

Enhancing CO2 hydrogenation to methanol via the synergistic effect of MoS2 interlayer spacing and sulfur vacancies

CO2 is reduced to methanol via the synergistic effect of expansion of the interlayer spacing and sulfur vacancies of MoS2.

Graphical abstract: Enhancing CO2 hydrogenation to methanol via the synergistic effect of MoS2 interlayer spacing and sulfur vacancies
165 items - Showing page 1 of 3

About this collection

Journal of Materials Chemistry A is pleased to present this themed collection highlighting the rising stars of materials chemistry research in 2024. This special collection showcases the very best work from materials chemists in the early stages of their independent career.

Each contributor was recommended by experts in their fields as carrying out work with the potential to influence future directions in materials chemistry with applications in energy and sustainability. Congratulations to all the outstanding researchers featured!

See also:

Journal of Materials Chemistry B Emerging Investigators 2024

Journal of Materials Chemistry C Emerging Investigators 2024

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