Themed collection 2021 Materials Chemistry Frontiers Review-type Articles
Advanced XPS characterization: XPS-based multi-technique analyses for comprehensive understanding of functional materials
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has achieved maturity as an analytical technique in the materials community, however as made apparent by recent reviews highlighting it's misuse, it is a practice which is often misunderstood.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7931-7963
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00969A
Recent advances of graphdiyne: synthesis, functionalization, and electrocatalytic applications
With unique sp-, sp2-hybridized carbon atoms, natural band gap, highly conjugated π electrons and uniform pore structure, graphdiyne (GDY) has been receiving increased attention and is predicted to have good application prospects in many fields.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7964-7981
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM01079D
An indacenodithiophene core moiety for organic solar cells
Indacenodithiophene (IDT) is widely employed in photoactive materials for OSC devices with the highest efficiency of 12%. IDT-based molecules show excellent light harvesting efficiency, charge transportation ability and molecular packing.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7724-7736
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM01100F
Recent progress of photochromic materials towards photocontrollable devices
Photochromic materials have been widely used in optoelectronic area due to their distinct photo-reversible characteristics. This review summarizes the recent development of photochromic materials and their applications in photocontrollable devices.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7737-7758
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00790D
A roadmap to UV-protective natural resources: classification, characteristics, and applications
Accumulation of photoprotective compounds is a mechanism used by organisms to minimize the effects of UV radiation from the Sun. If extracted in pure form, these compounds can be used in the production of eco-friendly alternatives to existing agents.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7696-7723
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00741F
Strategies of perovskite mechanical stability for flexible photovoltaics
This review summarized the different strategies of enhancing the perovskite mechanical stability, and we mainly describe from three aspects: mechanical stability of perovskite layer, interface engineering and engineering on other functional layers.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7467-7478
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00616A
Recent progress in electrode materials for aqueous sodium and potassium ion batteries
This review overviews the recent advances in novel electrode materials of ASIBs/APIBs, the operation mechanism of representative materials, and new findings based on the preparation and modification approaches.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7384-7402
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM01011E
Mini-review: progress on micro/nanoscale MnMoO4 as an electrode material for advanced supercapacitor applications
MnMoO4 with various micro/nanoscale structures to improve the electronic conductivity and enhance the electrochemical performances for supercapacitors are summarized in this mini-review.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7403-7418
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00914A
Functional hydrogel-based supercapacitors for wearable bioelectronic devices
Functional hydrogel-based electrodes and electrolytes for multifunctional supercapacitors for wearable bioelectronic devices.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7479-7498
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00657F
Recent trends in nanozymes design: from materials and structures to environmental applications
This review summarizes recent advances on engineered nanostructures possessing enzyme-like activities for applications in environmental monitoring and remediation.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7419-7451
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00947H
Fundamental air stability in solid-state electrolytes: principles and solutions
The atmospheric instability of solid state electrolytes (SSEs) was classified and introduced based on the principles and corresponding solutions, which is believed to trigger new research ideas in this area.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7452-7466
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00951F
Graphdiyne based catalysts for energy applications
This review has comprehensively reviewed the graphdiyne-based catalysts for broad applications in electrochemical processes and energy storage devices, which will supply significant references for future research in this field.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7369-7383
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00796C
Current trends in MXene research: properties and applications
A critical survey on current trends, status, and possibilities of MXenes based materials have been represented for various applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7134-7169
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00556A
A recent overview of porphyrin-based π-extended small molecules as donors and acceptors for high-performance organic solar cells
Structural development of porphyrin-based small molecules as electron donors and electron acceptors leads to optimal photovoltaic performances, with PCEs of over 12% and 9.6%, respectively, in bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7119-7133
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00952D
Nitrogen-rich tricyclic-based energetic materials
A systematic introduction to the developments in heterocyclic high energy density materials (HEDMs) with various explosive units in the form of tricyclic-based oxadiazole.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7108-7118
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00916H
Collagen mineralization and its applications in hard tissue repair
Mineralized collagen is an organic–inorganic composite material, which is the building unit of bones and teeth. This review aims to provide an in-depth study of the collagen biomineralization and applications relating to hard tissue regeneration.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7071-7087
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00901J
Photophysics in Cs3Cu2I5 and CsCu2I3
Cs3Cu2I5 and CsCu2I3 with a low-dimensional electronic structure and strong electron–phonon coupling exhibit broad spectrum emission and high PLQY, which may originate from self-trapped exciton or excited-state structure reorganization.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 7088-7107
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00552A
Material strategies in the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction to ammonia production
Nanostructure electrocatalysts are demonstrated for nitrate reduction reaction to ammonia production. Based on the understanding of material parameters and reaction intermediates, origins of the enhanced activity and perspectives are provided.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6803-6823
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00456E
Long afterglow MOFs: a frontier study on synthesis and applications
The recent advances in the fabrication and application of MOF-based long afterglow materials.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6824-6849
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00689D
A review of the synergistic effect of multi-coordination crystal fields on electrocatalysts
Cooperative catalysis highlights the synergistic electronic and geometric effects between active sites and their local environments in the dynamic OER/ORR electrocatalysis.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6718-6734
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00658D
Recent advances in bone-targeting nanoparticles for biomedical applications
This review summarizes the progress in bone-targeting ligands, bone-targeting nanoparticles and their potential biomedical applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6735-6759
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00851J
Clusterization-triggered emission (CTE): one for all, all for one
This review summarizes recent progress in CTE studies focusing on understanding the mechanisms and general characteristics. Additionally, some interdisciplinary and distinctive studies are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6693-6717
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00808K
Insights into the device structure, processing and material design for an organic thin-film transistor towards functional circuit integration
Tremendous efforts in material chemistry and processing techniques have enabled organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) for various functional circuits and systems.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6760-6778
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00334H
Imogolite: a nanotubular aluminosilicate: synthesis, derivatives, analogues, and general and biological applications
Imogolite is an aluminosilicate of empirical formula (OH)3Al2O3–SiOH and hollow nanotube structure. It can be obtained from natural volcanic ash or via chemical synthesis. The inner and outer surfaces can be modified by various strategies.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6779-6802
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00617G
Review of core/shell nanostructures presenting good hyperthermia properties for cancer therapy
Hyperthermia is becoming one of the most promising treatments for cancer therapy.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6429-6443
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00353D
Tailorable MOF architectures for high-efficiency electromagnetic functions
Adjustable microstructures and components of MOF architectures for high-efficiency electromagnetic functions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6444-6460
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00659B
Nonlinear optics of graphdiyne
Graphdiyne features a high π-conjugation degree and an intrinsic natural bandgap, which guarantee a large optical refractive index and broadband absorption, and thus promises a wide range of application prospects in nonlinear optics.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6413-6428
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00834J
Novel synthesis, properties and applications of emerging group VA two-dimensional monoelemental materials (2D-Xenes)
Two-dimensional materials (2D materials) have been the focal point of recent advanced research owing to their new properties and probability for enlightening fascinating novel phenomena.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6333-6391
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00629K
A mechanistic review of lithiophilic materials: resolving lithium dendrites and advancing lithium metal-based batteries
A review and the prospect of lithiophilic materials to highlight their versatility among the various forms of lithium metal-based batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6294-6314
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00579K
Graphynes as emerging 2D-platforms for electronic and energy applications: a computational perspective
Theoretical exploration accelerates the design of robust and efficient graphyne-based advanced energy and electronic devices for real applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6392-6412
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00595B
Progress in dynamic emissivity regulation: control methods, material systems, and applications
Recent advances in dynamic emissivity regulating materials and systems are reviewed in terms of the working principle, stimulation source, and application. Perspectives in dynamic control of emissivity are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 6315-6332
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00624J
Defect engineering of molybdenum disulfide for energy storage
This minireview summarizes and highlights the recent advances and investigations on the defect engineering of molybdenum disulfide, with a special focus on applications in lithium-, sodium- and potassium-ion batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5880-5896
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00442E
Recent advances in the capture and abatement of toxic gases and vapors by metal–organic frameworks
This review provides a comprehensive summary of the research progress of metal–organic frameworks in the application of capture and abatement of toxic gases and vapors.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5970-6013
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00516B
Strategies, design and synthesis of advanced nanostructured electrodes for rechargeable batteries
In this review, a wide range of advanced strategies are discussed and summarized for the development of high performance electrodes for rechargeable batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5897-5931
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00274K
Competing hydrogen evolution reaction: a challenge in electrocatalytic nitrogen fixation
The electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR) under mild conditions is a promising candidate for NH3 synthesis. Nevertheless, competition between the H2 evolution reaction and the NRR results in a low NH3 yield rate and poor faradaic efficiency.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5954-5969
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00546D
Sustainable bio-derived materials for addressing critical problems of next-generation high-capacity lithium-ion batteries
Sustainable bio-derived materials solve the critical issues of low ionic and electrical conductivity, large volume variation, lithium dendrite formation, and the shuttle effect of the sulfur cathode in lithium-ion batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5932-5953
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00255D
Droplet evaporation-induced analyte concentration toward sensitive biosensing
Droplet-based biosensors have attracted much attention and their performances are closely related to the evaporation of sessile droplets. Herein, an up-to-date review of the evaporation of sessile droplets towards sensitive biosensing.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5639-5652
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00500F
Metal–organic frameworks towards bio-medical applications
This mini review summarises the progress in the field of MOFs and their use in biomedical applications, from their early discovery and conception, to more recent achievements including promising in vivo applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5573-5594
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00784J
Nonfullerene electron acceptors with electron-deficient units containing cyano groups for organic solar cells
Various nonfullerene electron acceptors with electron-deficient units containing cyano groups are summarized in this review. The systematic elaboration of structure–property relationships will provide a clearer idea for future molecule design.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5549-5572
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00558H
Heat conduction of electrons and phonons in thermal interface materials
Investigation on the thermal transport of heat carriers in TIMs will aid in promoting the advancement of TIMs with high performance.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5617-5638
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QM01136C
Marine polysaccharides: green and recyclable resources as wound dressings
This review summarizes the development and utilization of marine polysaccharides in wound dressings. The commonly used marine polysaccharides are classified, and the types of marine polysaccharide-based wound dressings are described in detail.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5595-5616
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00561H
Cross-linked polymers based on B–O bonds: synthesis, structure and properties
Research progress of boron-containing crosslinked polymers with different structures and functions is summarized, and the crosslinking structure, pyrolysis mechanism and exchange mechanism of cross-linked polymers based on B–O bonds are highlighted.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5534-5548
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00514F
Recent advances on electrocatalytic fixation of nitrogen under ambient conditions
This review summarizes and discusses recent efforts paid to the design and synthesis of electrocatalysts for nitrogen fixation under ambient conditions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5516-5533
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00269D
Bioactive engineered photothermal nanomaterials: from theoretical understanding to cutting-edge application strategies in anti-cancer therapy
In this paper, the photothermal conversion principles and the latest application strategies in photothermal therapy of nanomaterials are generalized. Finally, the suggestions for further development of them in anti-cancer therapy are given.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5257-5297
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00402F
Controllable patterning of nanoparticles via solution transfer processes
Based on the coffee ring effect, we have reviewed the recent progress in controllable patterning of nanoparticles using solution transfer approaches, as well as the mechanism involved and the applications in various fields.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5247-5256
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00513H
Advancements in the preparation methods of artificial cell membranes with lipids
In order to better understand the structure and function of biological cell membranes, various artificial systems have been developed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5233-5246
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00501D
Recent advancements of functional gel polymer electrolytes for rechargeable lithium–metal batteries
A comprehensive review of the latest advancements of functional gel polymer electrolytes, focused on the thermal response behavior, metallic lithium anode and cathode in lithium–metal batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5211-5232
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00096A
Materials chemistry among the artificial solid electrolyte interphases of metallic lithium anodes
The progress of artificial SEI established by precursors with distinguished chemical compositions are summarized, and outlooks are proposed for the lithium-metal anode investigations regarding comprehensive SEI chemistry identifications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5194-5210
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00352F
(S)TEM-EELS as an advanced characterization technique for lithium-ion batteries
(Scanning) transmission electron microscopy–electron energy loss spectroscopy is used as an advanced nano-scale characterization method to clarify the ion diffusion, charge transfer and structure change occurring in lithium-ion batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5186-5193
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00275A
MOF-74 type variants for CO2 capture
This review article introduces MOF-74 type variants and their CO2 capture properties in terms of the open metal site and the functional groups on the ligand and open metal sites.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 5172-5185
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00205H
Preparation and biomedical application of injectable hydrogels
The preparation of multifunctional injectable hydrogels, as well as the classification of injectable hydrogels according to different functions, most summarize the applications of injectable hydrogels in different biomedical fields.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4912-4936
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00489A
Recent advances in sulfide electrolytes toward high specific energy solid-state lithium batteries
All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have gained extensive attention due to their improved safety and high specific energy density compared with conventional liquid lithium-ion batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4892-4911
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00474C
Progress in copper metal halides for optoelectronic applications
We summarize the structures, synthesis and properties of copper-based ternary metal halides, and their applications in optoelectronics, along with a perspective and suggestions for the future directions for this class of copper compounds.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4796-4820
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00288K
Sequential deposition enables high-performance nonfullerene organic solar cells
The morphology optimization strategies and great potentials in constructing stable and large-area organic solar cells via sequential deposition are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4851-4873
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00407G
Laser-induced graphene for environmental applications: progress and opportunities
Recent advances in laser-induced graphene (LIG) for environmental applications are comprehensively reviewed. Challenges and opportunities in solving environmental issues using LIG are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4874-4891
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00437A
Metal halide perovskite-based flexible tandem solar cells: next-generation flexible photovoltaic technology
Flexible perovskite-based tandem solar cells could be the game-changer for next-generation flexible photovoltaics.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4833-4850
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00279A
Circularly polarized luminescence in chiral nematic liquid crystals: generation and amplification
Chiral nematic liquid crystals exhibit excellent performance in obtaining high luminescence dissymmetry factor of circularly polarized luminescence.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4821-4832
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00335F
Versatile graphene oxide nanosheets via covalent functionalization and their applications
This review focuses on the covalent functionalization of GO and presents various strategies to control its dispersibility, conductivity, and catalytic activity toward potential applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4424-4444
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00066G
Multimetallic nanostructures for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media
In this review, the authors highlighted the recent progress on the noble metal-based multimetallic electrocatalysts toward the oxygen evolution reaction under acidic condition.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4445-4473
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00138H
Recent progress of metal-halide perovskite-based tandem solar cells
This review presents critical advances of perovskite-based tandem solar cells (TSCs). Electrode engineering, interface engineering, bandgap engineering, and processing techniques are discussed, as well as the future directions and challenges.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4538-4564
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QM01085E
Recent progress of nanostructured metal chalcogenides and their carbon-based hybrids for advanced potassium battery anodes
In this overview, the recent achievements of metal chalcogenides (MCs), their carbon-based hybrids, and the effects of nanostructured MCs on the future of PIBs technologies are discussed in detail by studying their inherent diverse attributes.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4401-4423
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00085C
Nanophotonic devices and circuits based on colloidal quantum dots
Colloidal quantum dots provide a powerful platform to achieve numerous classes of solution-processed photonic devices. This review summarizes the recent progress in CQD-based passive and active nanophotonic devices as well as nanophotonic circuits.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4502-4537
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QM01118E
Innovative strategies of hydrogen peroxide-involving tumor therapeutics
In this review, we summarized and discussed the recent advances and future prospects of H2O2-involving therapeutic methods for anticancer applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4474-4501
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00134E
Advances in biomedical applications of self-healing hydrogels
In this paper, various self-healing hydrogels are discussed including their healing mechanisms and details of their current biomedical applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4368-4400
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QM01099E
Metal–organic framework based catalytic nanoreactors: synthetic challenges and applications
Catalytic nanoreactors involving chemocatalysts with diverse range of size and composition, biocatalysts, and photocatalysts within solid as well as mesoporous MOF are extremely useful for selective, efficient and stable catalytic applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 3986-4021
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00242B
Hydrogen separation and purification with MOF-based materials
This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental theories and strategies for MOF-based H2 separation and purification, including hydrogen isotope separation with representative examples.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4022-4041
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00234A
Etching to unveil active sites of nanocatalysts for electrocatalysis
Surface-active nanocatalysts induced from various etching strategies improve electrocatalytic performances.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 3962-3985
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00233C
Rational strategies toward efficient and stable lead-free tin halide perovskite solar cells
We summarized the recent reported strategies for overcoming the challenges for lead-free tin halide perovskite solar cells (THPSCs), expecting to give a perspective outlining the possible future direction for THPSCs.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4107-4127
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0QM01002B
Bio-inspired artificial ion channels: from physical to chemical gating
This review focuses on the biomimetic, improved, and intelligent gating behaviours of artificial ion channels based on physical and chemical stimuli.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4059-4072
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00070E
Nanoscale electrocatalyst design for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction through activity descriptor identification
This review overviews recent progress in activity descriptor identification and strategies for designing advanced nanocatalysts for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2021,5, 4042-4058
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1QM00183C
About this collection
Critical reviews and chemistry frontiers articles published in Materials Chemistry Frontiers during 2021 are collated as below for the benefit of readers.