Themed collection Recent Review Articles
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The future of metal–organic frameworks and covalent organic frameworks: rational synthesis and customized applications
Innovations in synthetic methodologies, such as fully automatic synthesis, high throughput screening, and machine learning, are opening new frontiers in the design, synthesis, and application of MOFs and COFs.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5337-5342
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01396K
Prediction of future breakthroughs in materials synthesis and manufacturing techniques: a new perspective of synthesis dynamics theory
This paper presents the derivation of the general form of the diffusion flux-driving force equation and establishes a synthetic kinetic theory. Based on it, three important directions for future material manufacturing breakthroughs are proposed.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5343-5353
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01302B
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Advances in Cu nanocluster catalyst design: recent progress and promising applications
We present an in-depth study of Cu NC catalysts, encompassing design strategies, atomic-level tuning, and diverse catalytic applications.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1509-1522
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00336A
Specific interaction based drug loading strategies
This mini-review introduces drug loading strategies based on specific interactions. The interactions can be from drugs and their targets, such as tetrodotoxin with a sodium channel, and biomolecular recognition, such as ligand–receptor recognition.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1523-1528
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00165B
Functionalizing nanophotonic structures with 2D van der Waals materials
Integrating 2D van der Waals materials generates new functionalities for nanophotonic structures, like integrated waveguides, microcavities, fibers, and metasurfaces, to prototype novel optoelectronic applications with challenges and perspectives.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1345-1365
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00246B
MXene-based nanomaterials with enzyme-like properties for biomedical applications
The recent progress of MXene-based nanozymes is reviewed, including the synthetic methods, enzyme-like properties, and biomedical applications.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1333-1344
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00213F
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Recent development of end-of-life strategies for plastic in industry and academia: bridging their gap for future deployment
Bridging the gap between academia and industry in plastic recycling will accelerate innovation and deployment toward solving the global challenge of plastic waste management and establishing net zero carbon society.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1608-1624
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2MH01549H
Catalytic routes towards polystyrene recycling
This minireview focuses on potential catalytic recycling processes for the production of styrene and other valuable aromatics from polystyrene (PS) waste, and it aims to lay the ground for PS recyclability and long-term sustainable PS production.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1625-1640
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2MH01215D
Noble metal nanodendrites: growth mechanisms, synthesis strategies and applications
This review highlights the research progress of noble metal nanodendrites in terms of growth mechanisms, synthesis approaches and applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1234-1263
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2MH01408D
Interfacial built-in electric-field for boosting energy conversion electrocatalysis
A critical review of built-in electric fields for the applications in electrocatalytic reactions is organized by focusing on the fundamental concepts, modification strategies, and positive influences on the promotion of catalytic performance.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 441-452
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2NH00549B
Flexible two-dimensional MXene-based antennas
This minireview summarizes the recent cutting-edge works of 2D MXene-based flexible antennas, discusses the existing bottlenecks, and provides some guidelines for the future development of this promising field.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 309-319
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2NH00556E
Metallene-related materials for electrocatalysis and energy conversion
As a member of graphene analogs, metallenes are a class of two-dimensional materials with atomic thickness and well-controlled surface atomic arrangement made of metals or alloys.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 407-431
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2MH01213H
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Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy in drug delivery: a roadmap for correct characterization of nanoparticles and interpretation of results
In this focus article, we provide a scrutinizing analysis of transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering as the two common methods to study the sizes of nanoparticles with focus on the application in pharmaceutics and drug delivery.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5354-5370
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00717K
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Ionic and electronic energy diagrams for hybrid perovskite solar cells
Generalized energy diagrams facilitate the understanding of the ionic and electronic charge carrier equilibrium in the bulk and at interfaces of devices based on mixed conductors, such as hybrid perovskite solar cells.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1641-1650
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2MH01569B
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The potential of graphene coatings as neural interfaces
Graphene coatings hold transformative potential for brain interfaces. This review explores the physico-chemical aspects of chemical vapor deposited graphene coatings in neurological applications, highlighting the key properties of an ideal interface.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 384-406
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00461A
Advancing piezoelectric 2D nanomaterials for applications in drug delivery systems and therapeutic approaches
New evidence for piezoelectric nanomaterials across energy harvesting, piezocatalysis, and biomedicine fields, guiding and supporting future drug delivery system development.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2024,9, 365-383
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00578J
Multifunctional nacre-like materials
We summarise progress in the fabrication and mechanics of nacre-like materials in recent years and explore pathways to translate nacre-like materials to real-life applications, while providing avenues for future work.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5371-5390
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01015E
A review of the corrosion behavior of conventional and additively manufactured nickel–aluminum bronze (NAB) alloys: current status and future challenges
Corrosion behavior of conventionally produced and additively manufactured NABs are reviewed. The uniform and localized types of corrosion of NABs are discussed. The corrosion mechanisms for NAB alloys are discussed. Suggestions for future research on traditional and AMed NABs are offered.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5391-5435
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00951C
MXene based flexible photodetectors: progress, challenges, and opportunities
This review highlights the progress, challenges and opportunities in MXene based flexible photodetectors.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5457-5473
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01362F
Machine learning-based inverse design methods considering data characteristics and design space size in materials design and manufacturing: a review
This review offers a guideline for selecting the ML-based inverse design method, considering data characteristics and design space size. It categorizes challenges and underscores the proper methods, with a focus on composites and its manufacturing.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 5436-5456
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00039G
The rise of quasi-2D Dion–Jacobson perovskites for photovoltaics
This article reviews the remarkable advances of quasi-2D DJ perovskites for solar cells and provides perspectives toward their future development.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1628-1651
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00209H
Microfluidic synthesis of nanomaterials for biomedical applications
This review provides an overview of the fundamentals of microfluidic reactors and summarizes their use for fabricating various nanomaterials and applications in the biomedical field.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1610-1627
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00217A
A review on nickel-rich nickel–cobalt–manganese ternary cathode materials LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 for lithium-ion batteries: performance enhancement by modification
A comprehensive review of modification research on medium-nickel-content ternary material NMC622 mainly on boundary-interfacial engineering, which aims to inspire thinking about breaking through the current limitations of NMC622.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4776-4826
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01151H
Emergence of magnetic nanoparticles in photothermal and ferroptotic therapies
Magnetic nanoparticles offer versatile opportunities for anti-cancer therapy, stemming from a single metal element, iron, naturally processed by the human body. Applications range from magnetic hyperthermia to the emerging fields of photothermal therapy and ferroptosis induction.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4757-4775
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00831B
Superstructures of water-dispersive hydrophobic nanocrystals: specific properties
Superstructures of hydrophobic nanocrystals dispersed in water acting as heating nanoelements are internalized in cells creating photothermal damage.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4746-4756
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00949A
Overview of the design of bionic fine hierarchical structures for fog collection
A novel perspective is proposed to analyze designs of fine hierarchical structures, which are vital for fog collection. In this review, an overall overview of recent work is given from a bionic, and thus from a spatial dimensional perspective.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4827-4856
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01094E
Biomimetic cell culture for cell adhesive propagation for tissue engineering strategies
This is the first review discussing material design and manufacture from the perspective of biomimetic cell culture.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4662-4685
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00849E
Tailoring biomaterials for biomimetic organs-on-chips
The advances in biomaterials for the construction of organs-on-chips are reviewed, including the design, fabrication, functions, applications, and future directions of these biomaterial-based platforms.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4724-4745
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00755C
Combination of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and polyoxometalates (POMs): the preparation strategy and potential application of COF–POM hybrids
Both covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and polyoxometalates (POMs) show excellent properties and application potential in many fields, thus receiving widespread attention.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4710-4723
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00906H
Origin and characterization of the oxygen loss phenomenon in the layered oxide cathodes of Li-ion batteries
This review summarizes the current understanding of the origins of oxygen loss in LLMO cathodes and introduces advanced characterization techniques used to detect the phenomenon.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4686-4709
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00780D
A cooperation tale of biomolecules and nanomaterials in nanoscale chiral sensing and separation
A cooperation tale of biomolecules and nanomaterials in nanoscale chiral sensing and separation.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1485-1508
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00133D
Emerging memristive artificial neuron and synapse devices for the neuromorphic electronics era
A review and universal benchmark for assessing the artificial neuron and synapse device performance from an energy perspective, with the introduction of neuromorphics from biological to electronics and their prospects.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1456-1484
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00180F
Plant exosome nanovesicles (PENs): green delivery platforms
Structure of plant-derived vesicles and their bioactive applications. Created with BioRender.com
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3879-3894
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH01030A
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Prospects of nanoparticle-based radioenhancement for radiotherapy
Inorganic nanomaterials show promising potential for radiotherapy enhancement. This article provides a concise summary of mechanisms involved, materials designs and future prospects of nanoparticle-based radioenhancement for precision medicine.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4059-4082
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00265A
Designing self-healing hydrogels for biomedical applications
Self-healing hydrogels based on various dynamic interactions are comprehensively summarized and their biomedical applications are also thoroughly elaborated.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3929-3947
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00891F
Porous organic polymers (POPs) for environmental remediation
Porous organic polymers show great potential for addressing environmental pollution challenges, including chemical sensing, wastewater treatment, toxic gas sorption, heterogeneous catalysis, and further promoting sustainable remediation strategies.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4083-4138
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00672G
Self-healing polymers through hydrogen-bond cross-linking: synthesis and electronic applications
Classification of H-bonding-based SHPs and their electronic applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4000-4032
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00236E
Recent advances in defect-engineered molybdenum sulfides for catalytic applications
Applications of various defective molybdenum sulfides in diverse catalytic reactions are reviewed, including design, methods, mechanisms, active sites, and performance.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3948-3999
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00462G
Stimulus-responsive nonclose-packed photonic crystals: fabrications and applications
Stimulus-responsive nonclosely packed photonic crystals are reviewed on the aspects of fundamentals, fabrications, properties, and applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3895-3928
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00877K
Bionic ordered structured hydrogels: structure types, design strategies, optimization mechanism of mechanical properties and applications
In this paper, the structure types, optimization mechanism of mechanical properties and common application scenarios of bionic ordered structure hydrogels are reviewed.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 4033-4058
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00326D
Nanofibrous scaffolds for the healing of the fibrocartilaginous enthesis: advances and prospects
With the current developmental advancements in nanotechnology, nanofibrous scaffolds are being widely used.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1313-1332
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00212H
Four levels of in-sensor computing in bionic olfaction: from discrete components to multi-modal integrations
Based on the degree of integration, four levels of in-sensor computing in the field of artificial olfactory are summarized.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1301-1312
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00115F
Insights into high-entropy material synthesis dynamics criteria based on a thermodynamic framework
Based on the overall thermodynamic formation criterion of high entropy materials, this paper explores the synthesis dynamics and the influence of different kinetic rates on the final products, filling the gap in the thermodynamic criteria limitations.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3293-3303
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00360D
In situ stimulus-responsive self-assembled nanomaterials for drug delivery and disease treatment
This review reveals the principles and relationships between the structures and properties of in situ self-assembled nanomaterials, explores the assembly driving forces, and provides guidance for development of in situ targeted drug delivery systems.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3197-3217
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00592E
Molecularly or atomically precise nanostructures for bio-applications: how far have we come?
A huge variety of nanostructures are promising for biomedical applications, but only a few have been practically applied.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3304-3324
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00574G
Stimuli-responsive dynamic hydrogels: design, properties and tissue engineering applications
This review provides a brief overview of the recent developments in hydrogel systems that respond dynamically to various stimuli, including some of the interesting fabrication strategies, and their application in cardiac, bone, and neural tissue regeneration.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3325-3350
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00399J
Animal tissue-derived biomaterials for promoting wound healing
This work highlights the animal tissue-derived biomaterials in the wound treatment field based on an evaluation of their critical properties, advanced design strategies and latest applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3237-3256
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00411B
Rational design of stable functional metal–organic frameworks
Reticular chemistry allows for the rational design and synthesis of stable metal–organic frameworks with targeted nets and programmable pores for diverse applications ranging from water capture and catalysis to gas storage and separation.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3257-3268
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00541K
Ion modulation engineering toward stable lithium metal anodes
Homogeneous ion transport during Li+ plating/stripping plays a significant role in the stability of Li metal anodes (LMAs) and the electrochemical performance of Li metal batteries (LMBs).
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3218-3236
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00403A
Bio-inspired artificial synaptic transistors: evolution from innovative basic units to system integration
Summary schematic of this review regarding transistor-based synapses including materials, device structures, functional simulation and system application.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 3269-3292
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00216K
Selective organ targeting nanoparticles: from design to clinical translation
This review briefly describes the fate of nanoparticles in vivo and expounds the mechanism of organ targeting of nanoparticles.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1155-1173
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00145H
Recent advances in iridium-based catalysts with different dimensions for the acidic oxygen evolution reaction
An overview of the recent progress of Ir-based catalysts constructed with different dimensions was provided to make a comprehensive understanding of their structural and catalysis performance.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1174-1193
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00156C
Strategies and applications of generating spin polarization in organic semiconductors
Highlight physical mechanism and recent advances in spin injection, organic property-induced spin polarization, covering various spin injection methods, organic magnetic materials, chiral-induced spin selectivity effect, and spinterface effect.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1132-1154
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00101F
Emerging transition metal and carbon nanomaterial hybrids as electrocatalysts for water splitting: a brief review
TM/N,B-CNMs hybrids are emerging water splitting electrocatalysts due to the high catalytic site density, enhanced structural integrity, charge density modulation on carbon, and synergistic effects among N, B, CNMs and TMs.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2764-2799
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00335C
Bioinspired humidity-responsive liquid crystalline materials: from adaptive soft actuators to visualized sensors and detectors
This review provides a comprehensive summary of humidity-responsive liquid crystalline systems, ranging from the humidity-responsive mechanism and preparation of humidity-responsive systems to the application of the emerging materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2824-2844
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00392B
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Conductive polymer based hydrogels and their application in wearable sensors: a review
Hydrogel sensors have received massive attentions for wearable devices, recent advances in the fabrication and network structure of conductive polymer hydrogels are summarized, and their application in the field of wearable sensors is also discussed.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2800-2823
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00056G
Click chemistry for 3D bioprinting
Bioinks are employed in the fabrication of 3D scaffolds containing cells and macromolecules that can be applied in regenerative medicine.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2727-2763
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00516J
Shape control with atomic precision: anisotropic nanoclusters of noble metals
When plasmonic metal nanoparticles become smaller and smaller, a new class of nanomaterials—metal nanoclusters of atomic precision—comes to light, and recently shape control at the atomic level for new functionality has become an attractive topic.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 991-1013
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00125C
Recent progress in construction methods and applications of perovskite photodetector arrays
The construction methods and image sensing applications of perovskite photodetector arrays in the development trends of the flexible, large-scale, narrow-band, and bionic photodetection are summarized and presented.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 1014-1033
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00119A
Nanostructures in Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for potential therapy
CHMs-derived materials with different nanostructures for various diseases (created with Biorender.com).
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 976-990
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NH00120B
Microreactor-based micro/nanomaterials: fabrication, advances, and outlook
Layout structure of this review. Highlighting the fabrication, design principles and applications of microreactors for the synthesis of inorganic, organic and composite micro/nanomaterials.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2343-2372
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00329A
Recent advances in interface engineering of Fe/Co/Ni-based heterostructure electrocatalysts for water splitting
The application and prospect of Fe/Co/Ni-based catalysts modified by interface engineering, and biomass electrooxidation reaction (BEOR) coupled with hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in water splitting are summarized.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2312-2342
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00366C
Structural engineering of electrodes for flexible energy storage devices
The correlation between geometrical parameters of various novel electrode structures and the corresponding mechanical properties are assessed in this review, which provides inspiration for their applications in future flexible energy storage devices.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 2373-2397
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00045A
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Atomistic modeling of the mechanical properties: the rise of machine learning interatomic potentials
This minireview highlights the superiority of machine learning interatomic potentials over the conventional empirical interatomic potentials and density functional theory calculations for the analysis of mechanical and failure responses.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1956-1968
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00125C
Nucleophilic deposition behavior of metal anodes
Herein, we combined the reported work and related experiments to identify the metal dissolution/deposition mechanism. Additionally, we try to give the judgment of electrode reactions and material selection for better electrode modification.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1990-2003
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00235G
All-inorganic lead halide perovskite nanocrystals applied in advanced display devices
This review classifies the development of all inorganic perovskite NC materials and related display devices, which provides beneficial inspiration for their applications in future display solutions.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1969-1989
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00062A
Chiral-induced spin selectivity in biomolecules, hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites and inorganic materials: a comprehensive review on recent progress
The spin polarized transport properties of chiral organic biomolecules, hybrid organic–inorganic materials and inorganic materials are reviewed, where the theoretical mechanisms and experimental techniques of chiral induced spin selectivity are summarized.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1924-1955
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00024A
Vanadium fluorophosphates: advanced cathode materials for next-generation secondary batteries
The recent progress on vanadium fluorophosphate cathodes for sodium (potassium) ion batteries is systematically summarized, including their crystal structure, Na+/K+ storage mechanism, modification strategy, and electrochemical performance.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1901-1923
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00003F
Memristor-based neural networks: a bridge from device to artificial intelligence
This paper reviews the research progress in memristor-based neural networks and puts forward future development trends.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2023,8, 716-745
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2NH00536K
Recent advances in in situ and operando characterization techniques for Li7La3Zr2O12-based solid-state lithium batteries
Various in situ/operando characterization techniques provide a comprehensive understanding of LLZO-based solid-state lithium batteries.
Mater. Horiz., 2023,10, 1479-1538
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3MH00135K
About this collection
In addition to first reports of new concepts, Materials Horizons and Nanoscale Horizons publish topical review and minireview articles. Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.