Themed collection Recent Review Articles
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Switching to the brighter lane: pathways to boost the absorption of lanthanide-doped nanoparticles
The use of organic dyes, semiconductors, and plasmonic nanostructures are three of the most promising strategies to make lanthanide-doped nanoparticles brighter by means of increasing their absorption capabilities.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2021,6, 209-230
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00627K
Navigating nMOF-mediated enzymatic reactions for catalytic tumor-specific therapy
nMOF-mediated enzymatic reactions have spurred intensive research, securing their place as “magic bullets” for catalytic tumor-specific therapy.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 3176-3186
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH01225D
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Evolution of self-healing elastomers, from extrinsic to combined intrinsic mechanisms: a review
We propose a timeline classifying self-healing polymers in generations based on the healing mechanism, and correlated with historical development.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2882-2902
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00535E
2D van der Waals heterostructures: processing, optical properties and applications in ultrafast photonics
The investigation of van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures has been becoming an attractive research topic. This review aims to present a thorough summarization of the research progress of vdW heterostructures in ultrafast photonics.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2903-2921
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00340A
Interfaces in rechargeable magnesium batteries
The interfacial reactions and processes in rechargeable magnesium batteries are discussed in this minireview.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1467-1475
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00379D
Air-stable means more: designing air-defendable lithium metals for safe and stable batteries
This review summarizes the strategies to simultaneously enhance air/water-resistance and electrochemical performance of lithium metal anodes.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2619-2634
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH01030H
Biomimetic hybrid membrane-based nanoplatforms: synthesis, properties and biomedical applications
This review focuses on the classification, synthesis, biomedical applications, prospects and challenges of biomimetic hybrid membrane-based nanoparticles.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1293-1302
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00267D
Newly developed strategies for improving sonodynamic therapy
Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a new therapeutic method, which can kill malignant tumors by using sonosensitizers and low intensity ultrasound (US) simultaneously.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2028-2046
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00613K
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Twenty-five years of polymersomes: lost in translation?
In this minireview, we discuss the progress of polymersome formulations towards clinical translation and highlight key opportunities and challenges.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1297-1309
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01669D
Catalytic reduction of nitrogen to produce ammonia by bismuth-based catalysts: state of the art and future prospects
This review provides an up-to-date review on Bi-based nitrogen-fixation materials and future directions for the development of new Bi-based nitrogen-fixation materials under ambient conditions.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1014-1029
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01668F
MXene and MXene-based composites: synthesis, properties and environment-related applications
This review highlights recent advances of MXenes and their composites in the environment-related applications including catalysis, water purification and sensors.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 235-258
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9NH00571D
Recent advances in integration of 2D materials with soft matter for multifunctional robotic materials
This Minireview highlights the pioneering advances in integration of 2D materials with soft matter for multifunctional robotic materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 54-70
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01139K
Recent advances in functional nanomaterials for photoacoustic imaging of glioma
Recent advances in functional nanomaterials for photoacoustic imaging of glioma are summarized, and the current challenges and perspectives are discussed.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 1037-1045
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9NH00328B
Recent trends in transition metal dichalcogenide based supercapacitor electrodes
The synthesis routes and the electrochemical performance evaluation of transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) based supercapacitor electrodes are discussed.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 840-858
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9NH00152B
Are lanthanide-doped upconversion materials good candidates for photocatalysis?
The most recent progress in high-quality upconversion particle synthesis, rational composite material design, and the combination with plasmonic metals renders upconversion-enhanced NIR photocatalysis increasingly more attractive than ever before.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 579-591
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NH00373D
DePEGylation strategies to increase cancer nanomedicine efficacy
PEGylation of nanoparticles prolongs circulation lifetimes and maximizes nanoparticle accumulation in target tumors. However, PEGylation comes at the cost of reduced cellular uptake of nanoparticles and concomitant drug delivery. This review discusses the various stimuli-responsive dePEGylation strategies that have been employed to overcome this “PEG dilemma”.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 378-387
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NH00417J
Artificial intelligence in nanomedicine
Artificial intelligence is poised to substantially enhance the efficacy and safety of nanomedicine.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 365-377
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NH00233A
Graphene oxide and carbon dots as broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents – a minireview
Complex antibacterial mechanisms of graphene oxide and carbon dots.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2019,4, 117-137
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NH00174J
Toward non-volatile photonic memory: concept, material and design
This review presents the development of photonic memory, with a view towards inspiring more intriguing ideas on the elegant selection of materials and design of novel device structures that may finally induce major progress in the fabrication and application of photonic memory.
Mater. Horiz., 2018,5, 641-654
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8MH00110C
Multifunctional nanozymes: enzyme-like catalytic activity combined with magnetism and surface plasmon resonance
Combining the intrinsic enzyme-mimicking properties of nanomaterials with their unique characteristics enables the design of multifunctional nanozymes for new biomedical applications and beyond.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2018,3, 367-382
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NH00070K
Metal–organic framework-derived one-dimensional porous or hollow carbon-based nanofibers for energy storage and conversion
This review summarizes the advances in the derivation of one-dimensional porous and hollow carbon nanofibers from metal–organic frameworks for energy storage and conversion.
Mater. Horiz., 2018,5, 394-407
https://doi.org/10.1039/C8MH00133B
Advances in transferring chemical vapour deposition graphene: a review
This review highlights recent developments in CVD graphene transfer methods from the perspective of mechanism, cleanness, quality, reliability, and cost.
Mater. Horiz., 2017,4, 1054-1063
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7MH00485K
Metallic nanoislands on graphene: a metamaterial for chemical, mechanical, optical, and biological applications
Two current applications of metal nanoisland–graphene composites are shown.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2017,2, 311-318
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7NH00095B
Beyond “decorative” 2D supramolecular self-assembly: strategies towards functional surfaces for nanotechnology
Designing new molecular building blocks for functional supramolecular self-assembly at surfaces.
Mater. Horiz., 2017,4, 570-583
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7MH00127D
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Towards a classification strategy for complex nanostructures
The range of possible nanostructures is so large and continuously growing, that collating and unifying the knowledge connected to them, including their biological activity, is a major challenge.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2017,2, 187-198
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6NH00219F
The same and not the same: molecular perovskites and their solid-state analogues
We review the crystal chemistry and physics of molecular perovskites, drawing on topical examples of the recent literature.
Mater. Horiz., 2017,4, 362-366
https://doi.org/10.1039/C7MH00107J
Iron carbide nanoparticles: an innovative nanoplatform for biomedical applications
This review summarize the biomedical applications of iron carbide nanoparticles.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2017,2, 81-88
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6NH00173D
Metal–organic frameworks: a novel host platform for enzymatic catalysis and detection
This minireview deals with the recent advances on the synthetic strategies for the immobilization of enzymes in metal–organic frameworks.
Mater. Horiz., 2017,4, 55-63
https://doi.org/10.1039/C6MH00312E
Good or evil: what is the role of water in crystallization of organometal halide perovskites?
Water modulates the nucleation, growth and stability of halide perovskites, which can be rationally controlled.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1147-1154
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00270D
Single atom catalysts: a surface heterocompound perspective
Evolution of heterogeneous catalysts with steady down-sizing: from small particles, clusters, dots to single atoms, and now the “surface heterocompound”.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 757-764
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00088D
Construction and optoelectronic applications of organic core/shell micro/nanostructures
This review summarizes recent advances in organic core–shell structures from the aspects of fabrication methods and optoelectronic applications, providing inspiration for the rational design of organic core–shell structures with desired performance.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 3161-3175
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00967A
Magnetically supported ionic liquids: a sustainable catalytic route for organic transformations
This review aims to explore the design, development and applications of magnetically supported metal-free and metal-containing ILs that play the role of catalytic moieties in various organic transformations.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 3097-3130
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH01088J
Promising functional two-dimensional lamellar metal thiophosphates: synthesis strategies, properties and applications
MPS3 exhibits great potential in many fields.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 3131-3160
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00802H
Rational structural design and manipulation advance SnSe thermoelectrics
This review aims to comprehensively summarize the significant developments in nanostructural manipulations that benefit SnSe thermoelectrics.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 3065-3096
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00954G
Vertically configured nanostructure-mediated electroporation: a promising route for intracellular regulations and interrogations
Nanostructure-mediated EP platforms based on vertically aligned nanowires (NWs), nanostraws (NSs), and nanotubes (NTs). Left: Intracellular delivery. Middle: Intracellular extraction of biomolecules. Right: Intracellular probing of action potential.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2810-2831
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH01016B
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Recombination junctions for efficient monolithic perovskite-based tandem solar cells: physical principles, properties, processing and prospects
Here, we review the physics and the technology of the recombination junction in perovskite-based tandem solar cells, with a summary of the most successful works.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2791-2809
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00990C
Perfectly imperfect: a review of chemical tools for exciton engineering in single-walled carbon nanotubes
This review investigates the concept of introducing disorder to single-walled carbon nanotubes for enhancement of their optical properties.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2860-2881
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00845A
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Defects in complex oxide thin films for electronics and energy applications: challenges and opportunities
This review focuses on recent progress in defect-engineered novel functionalities of complex oxide thin films for electronics and energy applications, and current challenges and perspectives.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2832-2859
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00899K
The oxygen vacancy in Li-ion battery cathode materials
Oxygen vacancies can promote Li-ion diffusion, reduce the charge transfer resistance, and improve the capacity and rate performance of Li-ion batteries. However, oxygen vacancies can also lead to accelerated degradation of the cathode material structure, and lead to phase transition etc.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1453-1466
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00340A
Interfacial engineering of gold nanoclusters for biomedical applications
Ultrasmall Au NCs have recently emerged as functional bionanomaterials due to their unique physicochemical and theranostic properties. To explore the therapeutic potential of Au NCs and to overcome biological barriers, interfacial engineering approaches are discussed in details.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2596-2618
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00827C
Status and prospects of porous graphene networks for lithium–sulfur batteries
A systematical summary of the recent progress of porous graphene networks applied in different components of lithium–sulfur batteries.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2487-2518
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00815J
Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites in electrocatalysis
We summarize recent developments of Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites as intriguing and high-performing electrocatalysts for key reactions relevant to energy conversion and storage at both low and high temperatures.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2519-2565
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00477D
Micro-/nanostructures meet anisotropic wetting: from preparation methods to applications
Recent advances in the development and application of novel anisotropic wetting interfacial phenomena through the use of unique micro-/nanostructures have been summarized.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2566-2595
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00768D
Single-chain nanoparticles: opportunities provided by internal and external confinement
This review summarizes the opportunities offered by internal and external confinement of single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) in catalysts, drug delivery, sensing, and other emerging potential applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2292-2313
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00846J
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Advances in design engineering and merits of electron transporting layers in perovskite solar cells
The electron transport layer plays an essential part for high-performing perovskite solar cells, on which successful extraction of charges from light harvester and the transfer to the electrode are critically dependent.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2276-2291
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00586J
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Lignin-based smart materials: a roadmap to processing and synthesis for current and future applications
Lignin-based smart materials are emerging into advanced material applications as stimuli-responsive actuators, sensors, controlled release systems, and more.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2237-2257
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00798F
Non-layered 2D materials toward advanced photoelectric devices: progress and prospects
Growth of non-layered 2D materials and their application in photoelectric devices are summarized, accompanied by prospects for future development.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2185-2207
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00599A
Interaction engineering in organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells
Various intermolecular interactions in perovskite solar cells can help in improving efficiency and stability.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2208-2236
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00745E
Surface biofunctionalization to improve the efficacy of biomaterial substrates to be used in regenerative medicine
The surface biofunctionalization of a biomaterial aim to enhance their biofunctionality at the cellular/tissue level. This review summarized different biofunctionalization strategies applied in the Tissue Engineering and Medicine Regenerative field.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2258-2275
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00542H
Harnessing the self-assembly of peptides for the targeted delivery of anti-cancer agents
Self-assembling peptide hydrogels can effectively transport, hold and release therapeutic molecules in a spatially and temporally controlled manner and, in doing so, improve anti-cancer drug efficacy while reducing non-specific toxicity.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1996-2010
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00398K
Additive manufacturing of natural biopolymers and composites for bone tissue engineering
Through additive manufacturing (AM) of natural biopolymers, significant progress has been made in the field of biomedical devices and bone tissue engineering of low load bearing applications like maxillofacial, bone defects, and dental.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 2011-2027
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00277A
Crystal regulation towards rechargeable magnesium battery cathode materials
Crystal regulation as the “key” powerfully unlocks the “crystal house” for fast and stable Mg ion migration and storage.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1971-1995
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00315H
Organostannane-free polycondensation and eco-friendly processing strategy for the design of semiconducting polymers in transistors
We introduce green synthetic methods and environmentally benign processing strategies that provide some ideas for total green fabrication of electronic devices.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1955-1970
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00138D
Basic knowledge in battery research bridging the gap between academia and industry
The basic knowledge in battery research bridging the gap between academia and industry was reviewed by the authors from both fields.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1937-1954
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00067A
Recent progress on hollow array architectures and their applications in electrochemical energy storage
The rational design of various hollow array architectures, including their advantages, synthetic strategies and applications in energy storage, is reviewed in this study.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1188-1199
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00332H
Implementation of ferroelectric materials in photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting
This review unravels the interaction of PC and PEC water splitting with interfacial ferroelectric polarization.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1174-1187
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00219D
Nano/microstructures of shape memory polymers: from materials to applications
This review summarizes the advances and challenges of shape memory polymers with nano/microstructures from materials to applications.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1155-1173
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00246A
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The damaging effects of the acidity in PEDOT:PSS on semiconductor device performance and solutions based on non-acidic alternatives
Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate), PEDOT:PSS, has been widely used as an effective hole transporting material in many different organic semiconductor devices for well over a decade.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1759-1772
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01978B
Recent advances in anodic interface engineering for solid-state lithium-metal batteries
In this review, we summarize the anodic interface problems, advanced strategies, in situ characterization technologies and future perspectives of SSLMBs.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1667-1696
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00050G
What are the design principles, from the choice of lubricants and structures to the preparation method, for a stable slippery lubricant-infused porous surface?
In this review, we provide a comprehensive discussion of how to design a stable slippery lubricant-infused porous surface. The design principles and preparation methods for enhancing the stability of the lubricant layer are illustrated.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1697-1726
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00088D
Surface modified cellulose nanomaterials: a source of non-spherical nanoparticles for drug delivery
Cellulose nanomaterials, often called nanocellulose, have created a lot of buzz as a renewable building block for new materials. In this review, the steps necessary to generate soluble nanocellulose-based drug carriers are discussed, which includes surface modifications and toxicity.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1727-1758
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01727E
Recent progress in controlled nano/micro cracking as an alternative nano-patterning method for functional applications
Various cracking methods and its applications for transparent conductors, sensors, and microfluidics.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 1036-1049
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00241K
Mechanochemical synthesis of highly porous materials
Mechanochemistry became a powerful and popular method for the preparation of various porous materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1457-1473
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00081G
Rational design of semiconducting polymer brushes as cancer theranostics
In this review, recent progress in the development of semiconducting polymer brushes for advanced cancer theranostics has been presented.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1474-1494
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0MH00012D
Current status and prospects of memristors based on novel 2D materials
A summary of the characteristics and switching mechanisms of memristors based on novel 2D materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1495-1518
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH02033K
Lipid-based mesophases as matrices for nanoscale reactions
Review of nonlamellar lipidic mesophases as matrices for organic and enzymatic reactions, and synthesis of polymeric, metallic and mesoporous materials.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2020,5, 914-927
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NH00079E
Applications of nano-porous graphene materials – critical review on performance and challenges
A critical review on the potential of nano-porous graphene materials, their key structural and physicochemical properties for applications in the areas of separation and sensing and energy storage.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1218-1245
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01570A
Recent advances in the interface design of solid-state electrolytes for solid-state energy storage devices
High-ionic-conductivity solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) have been extensively explored for electrochemical energy storage technologies because these materials can enhance the safety of solid-state energy storage devices (SSESDs).
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1246-1278
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01701A
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Erbium complexes as pioneers for implementing linear light-upconversion in molecules
Trivalent erbium, Er3+, with its 4f11 electronic configuration, was the first lanthanide cation for which linear upconversion could be induced in a molecular complex. The reasons for this success and its perspectives are discussed in this review.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 1279-1296
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01899A
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About the amplification factors in organic bioelectronic sensors
A systematic comparison between electrochemical and organic bioelectronic sensors reveals a unified rational description for a transistor amplified detection.
Mater. Horiz., 2020,7, 999-1013
https://doi.org/10.1039/C9MH01544B